Restoring Antique Dovetail Joints

Article 131: Restoring Antique Dovetail Joints

By: A Woodworker Who Respects the Past but Believes in Tight Gaps

Antique dovetails, though beautifully hand-cut, can loosen over decades. Repairing them without altering their character is a satisfying balance of preservation and precision.

Materials

• Hide glue or reversible PVA

• Veneer or thin wood shims

• Clamps

• Wood filler (optional for cosmetic work)

Tools Needed

• Chisels

• Small saw

• Sandpaper

• Clamps

• Glue syringe

Steps

1. Assess and Test Fit

   • Check if tails/pins are loose, missing, or damaged. Test dry fit.

2. Clean Old Glue

   • Gently scrape out brittle glue using chisel or knife.

3. Shim Gaps

   • Cut veneer or thin slivers of matching wood. Glue into wide gaps for tighter fit.

4. Reassemble Joint

   • Apply hide glue, press together, and clamp evenly. Use gentle pressure to avoid splitting.

5. Cosmetic Touches

   • Optional: fill surface cracks with matching dust/glue or soft putty.

Diagram – Shimmed Dovetail

     |    |      |    |
    /____|_____/_____\ ← Tails
   |  ↑    ↑    ↑    |
   | Shim   Shim   Shim