Don't let the elegant look fool you. This trim is actually easier than the standard 'picture frame' trim used in most homes since the 1950s.

For this project, you'll need 1/2-in.- and 3/4-in.-thick MDF, and some paintable 1x3 lumber for the stools. We recommend wood for the stool because unlike MDF, it'll withstand a little moisture from window condensation. We used pine, but poplar, maple and birch would also work well.

You can figure out how much material you need using your cutting list, but as a rough estimate you can cut parts for about four or five windows from one 4 x 8-ft. sheet of MDF. MDF is heavy, and full sheets are hard to handle. Ask to have the sheets cut in half lengthwise at the home center.

Basic router bits: roundover, ogee, cove