Furniture Technology: Wood Joints and Furniture Construction — CSEC Building Technology
This topic covers the joints and methods used to make furniture (the "Woods" side of Building and Furniture Technology).
Common wood joints
- Butt joint — square-cut ends glued/nailed together; simplest but weakest.
- Halving (lap) joint — half the thickness of each piece is removed so they overlap flush.
- Mortise and tenon — a projecting tenon fits into a mortise (slot); a strong joint for frames and tables.
- Dovetail — interlocking joint that resists pulling apart; traditional for drawer corners.
- Mitre — two pieces cut at 45° to form a neat 90° corner (e.g. picture frames).
Fixings and adhesives
- Dowels — wooden pegs glued into matching holes to strengthen joints.
- Glue (adhesive) bonds parts, often with nails or screws.
- Clamps (cramps) hold glued joints tight and square while the glue sets.
Finishing
The surface is sanded smooth and dust-free, then a finish such as varnish, lacquer, wax or oil is applied to protect and beautify the wood.
Method (simple item)
- Produce a working drawing/design.
- Mark out and cut the parts.
- Assemble the joints with glue and clamps.
- Sand and apply the finish.
Exam tips
- Learn joints: butt (weakest), halving, mortise and tenon (strong), dovetail (drawers), mitre (45°).
- Dowels strengthen joints; clamps hold joints while glue sets.
- Sand smooth before applying varnish/lacquer/wax/oil.
- Know the order of making a furniture item.