Crafting Wedged Through Tenons

Article 152: Crafting Wedged Through Tenons

By: A Woodworker Who Likes Lock-Tight Joinery

Wedged through tenons are as beautiful as they are strong. Ideal for chairs, benches, and joinery that deserves to be seen.

Tools and Materials

• Chisels

• Tenon saw

• Marking gauge

• Mallet

• Hard wedges (oak, maple)

• Glue

Steps

1. Cut Tenon

   • Tenon should protrude ¼" beyond mortise.

   • Saw a kerf down the center of the tenon, stopping ¼" before the shoulder.

2. Cut Mortise

   • Mortise should be slightly flared at the top (visible face).

   • Undercut inside walls slightly to accept wedge flare.

3. Insert and Glue

   • Apply glue to mortise and tenon but not the kerf.

   • Drive in wedge with glue.

4. Trim Flush

   • After drying, trim tenon and wedge flush or leave proud for style.

Sketch – End View

Tenon (inserted from bottom)
 |---|     ← Wedge expands top
 | T |
 | E |   ← Through mortise
 | N |
 |---|