Making a Tapered Sliding Dovetail by Hand

Article 93: Making a Tapered Sliding Dovetail by Hand

By: A Woodworker Who Loves When Geometry Locks Things In Place

A tapered sliding dovetail joint offers strength and elegance. Unlike standard sliding dovetails, it gets tighter as it goes in—perfect for shelves or leg joinery.

Materials

• Stock for tail and socket (usually shelf into case side)

Tools Needed

• Dovetail saw

• Chisels

• Marking gauge

• Router plane or shoulder plane

• Sliding bevel

Steps

1. Layout Tail (Male Part)

   • Mark taper—1/8" narrower at the back than front.

   • Saw the angled sides with a dovetail saw.

2. Cut Socket

   • Transfer layout to mating piece.

   • Remove most waste with saw/chisel, refine with router plane.

3. Test Fit

   • Should start snug and tighten as it seats. Adjust taper gradually.

4. Glue and Clamp (Optional)

   • Friction usually holds. Glue if permanent.

Sketch – Side View of Assembly

  → [ Tapered Tail ] →      ← Tightens as inserted
  ┌────────────┐
  │            │ ← Socket
  └────────────┘