How to make a Dovetail Joint - The Three Joints - | Paul Sellers

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to create a dovetail joint, one of the most essential woodworking joints known for its strength and durability. Mastering this joint is a fundamental skill for any woodworker, especially for box making. Paul Sellers demonstrates how to achieve this using only hand tools, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced woodworkers.

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials

• Select Your Wood: Choose two pieces of wood that you want to join together. Common choices include hardwoods like oak or walnut.
• Gather Tools: You will need:
  • A square
  • A marking knife
  • A chisel
  • A dovetail saw
  • A mallet
  • A coping saw (optional)

Step 2: Mark the Dovetail Layout

• Measure and Mark: Use the square to mark the thickness of the wood on the end grain of one piece. This will be your reference point.
• Draw the Dovetail Shape:
  • Mark the angles for the tails (typically 1:4 or 1:5 ratio).
  • Use the marking knife to score the lines clearly, ensuring precision.

Step 3: Cut the Tails

• Position the Workpiece: Secure the wood in a vice.
• Use the Dovetail Saw:
  • Cut along the scored lines, making sure to stay within the lines for accuracy.
  • Cut down to the marked depth.

Step 4: Remove Waste from Tails

• Chisel Out the Waste:
  • Use a chisel to remove the waste between the cuts.
  • Work carefully to avoid chipping the wood.
• Clean Up the Edges: Ensure the edges are smooth for a tight fit.

Step 5: Mark and Cut the Pins

• Transfer the Tail Shape: Position the tail piece on the other wood piece to mark the pin layout.
• Score the Pins: Use the marking knife to define the pin shapes, ensuring they align with the tails.

Step 6: Cut the Pins

• Cut with the Dovetail Saw:
  • Cut along the scored lines for the pins.
  • Cut down to the marked depth.

Step 7: Remove Waste from Pins

• Chisel Out the Waste: Just like with the tails, use a chisel to remove the waste material from the pin cuts.
• Test Fit: Check the fit of the joint by trying to assemble the pieces together.

Step 8: Assemble the Joint

• Fit the Joint Together: Gently tap the joint together with a mallet.
• Final Adjustments: If the joint doesn't fit perfectly, make minor adjustments with the chisel or saw.

Conclusion

You have now successfully created a dovetail joint! This joint is not only strong but also aesthetically pleasing, making it ideal for furniture and box making. As you gain confidence, consider experimenting with different variations of dovetail joints for more advanced projects. Happy woodworking!