re: Box/top cut and splines

I was surprised you cut the lid off before splining. I'm always afraid of the miter joints failing while I try to cut if the splines are not already installed. Largish picture frames are the worst, almost tempted to cut a single spline slot, then install before moving on to the other corners.

I have finally learned to make sure all the splines slide in before gluing. Nothing like the panic of a half-seated spline with setting glue while trying to find a clamp or hammer to force it home.