Hand-Cut Dovetails – Mastering the Classic Joint

Article 28: Hand-Cut Dovetails – Mastering the Classic Joint

By: A Woodworker Who Loves Tradition and Precision

Hand-cut dovetails are the crown jewel of joinery. Though intimidating at first, they build skill and character like no other technique.

Materials

• 3/4" hardwood (e.g., cherry, walnut, or maple), two boards 6"x10"

• Pencil and marking gauge

• Wood glue

Tools Needed

• Dovetail saw

• Chisels (1/4", 1/2", 3/4")

• Mallet

• Marking knife

• Dovetail marker or bevel gauge

• Clamps

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Mark Your Baselines
   Use a marking gauge to define the baseline on both boards—usually 3/4" from the end.

2. Layout the Tails
   On one board, use a dovetail marker to draw the tails (commonly 1:6 ratio for softwoods, 1:8 for hardwoods). Space evenly.

3. Cut the Tails
   Saw precisely along the lines. Stay inside the waste lines.

4. Chop the Waste
   Use chisels to remove waste between the tails. Pare cleanly.

5. Transfer to the Pin Board
   Align the tail board on the end grain of the pin board. Use a marking knife to transfer.

6. Cut the Pins
   Saw carefully. Remove waste as with the tails.

7. Test Fit & Glue
   Dry fit first, then apply glue and clamp lightly.

Visual Diagram

End View of Tails:
 /‾‾\  /‾‾\
|    ||    |
 \__/  \__/

Fitted Dovetail:
|‾‾‾‾‾‾‾‾|
|  /\  /\ |
| /__\/__\|
|_________|