Woodworking is one of the key processes in any construction related activity. For the best finish and aesthetics coupled with durability and strength, it is pertinent to choose right technique of joinery when coupling 2 pieces. Pieces of plywood need to be joined in a specific, particular order and shape to produce a singular object. There are several different types of joints and knowing when to use which joint and how to use them is the key to create a masterpiece.
Here is a brief introduction to some of the joinery techniques showcasing various joints and what they are used for.
Bridle Joint: The end of one piece of plywood is carved into a Tenon shape and the other piece is cut into a shape of a mortise. Then, the two pieces carved are joined together to form the corner either with glue or with the help of a fastener or rivet (as the end application demands).
Applications of this type of joints are –
The T-bridle joint is a slight variation of this joint only which is used when one the joining piece is not forming a corner but need to be extended further. For example a hand rest of a chair or bench.
Birdsmouth Joint: A birdsmouth joint has two major parts - the seat cut or the heel cut. This technique is generally used to join a roof rafter to the plateau of a supporting wall or a base. The rafter consisting of a seat cut or a heel cut is fit in the base part.
Application –
Dado Joint: This joint is mostly used when one needs to put up shelves for the almirah or attach shelves directly on the walls. A slot is carved into the surface of the plywood such that the dado fits perfectly in the slot. The slot either passes through the surface of the plywood being carved or will stop before it goes through the plywood. The strength of the joint may be increased either by application of glue or using a fastener (whichever suits the end application)
Applications –
Rabbet Joint: The rabbet joint is simple and very easy to use. A cut is carved out into the end of a piece of plywood to create a ‘step’ like structure. This joint is used in a variety of woodworking projects. Glue or a fastener is required to hold the 2 joining pieces in this joint together.
Applications –
Scarf Joints: Scarf joint is a modification or an improvised version of Lap joint in which the possibility of gap formation at the joint is greatly reduced. In a scarf joint the two pieces of plywood are cut at a tapered angle and then joined using strong adhesive.
Applications –
Lap Joint: This is one of the most commonly used joints in woodworking. This type of joint is formed by slicing away half the thickness of each of the two pieces of plywood which are to be joined together. This type of joint is usually used when the two pieces have the same thickness. The portion of one part of the plywood carved out will snuggle fit into the other equivalent part of the other piece. Either an adhesive is applied on the joining area before placing the two pieces together or the two pieces are placed first and then secured using a fastener.
Applications –
This video shows some of the most used joints used in woodworking projects. In our other video you may get to know a few more techniques of joinery which can be applied in woodworking. We wish you Good luck with your future furniture projects.
