Mastering the Half-Lap Joint – Simple and Strong for Frames and Shelves

Article 40: Mastering the Half-Lap Joint – Simple and Strong for Frames and Shelves

By: A Woodworker Who Swears by Simplicity and Strength

Half-lap joints offer great strength with minimal complexity, perfect for frames, shelving, and lattice work. They provide increased glue surface and help prevent racking.

Materials

• Two 1x3 boards, 18" long (for demonstration)

• Wood glue

Tools Needed

• Hand saw or circular saw

• Chisel and mallet

• Square and pencil

• Clamps

• Sander (optional)

How-To Steps

1. Mark the Joint
   Lay the boards in a cross shape and mark the overlap point. Mark half the thickness on each board using a marking gauge or square.

2. Cut the Waste
   Saw down the marked lines. Make several relief cuts within the waste area.

3. Chisel the Waste
   Remove the waste between cuts with a chisel. Keep the base flat.

4. Dry Fit and Adjust
   Test the fit. It should be snug with no gaps.

5. Glue and Clamp
   Apply glue, clamp flat, and wipe any squeeze-out.

Diagram – Half-Lap Joint

Top View:
   _______
  |       |
  |_______|
     ||
     ||   ← Half-depth notch
  ___||___
 |       |
 |_______| ← Intersecting board