Sturdy Bench with Wedged Through Tenons

Article 83: Sturdy Bench with Wedged Through Tenons

By: A Woodworker Who Believes in Overbuilding with Style

This shop or entry bench uses through mortise-and-tenon joints with wedges, giving it unmatched strength and visual flair.

Materials

• Top: 2×12 hardwood – 48" long

• Legs: (2) 2×4 hardwood – 18" long

• Stretchers: (2) 2×2 hardwood – 36" long

• Wedge stock: thin hardwood strips (oak or hickory)

Tools Needed

• Mortise chisel

• Tenon saw

• Drill with Forstner bit

• Clamps and mallet

• Sander

Steps

1. Cut Tenons on Stretchers

   • 1 1/4" wide × 3" long. Splay the tenon slightly (5–7°) for wedging.

2. Cut Mortises in Legs

   • Drill and chisel clean mortises through each leg.

3. Dry Fit and Shape Wedges

   • Wedges should be slightly thicker than the tenon kerf and taper to a thin edge.

4. Assemble

   • Glue joints, insert tenons, then drive wedges into kerfs in tenons. Let dry.

5. Attach Top

   • Screw or dowel through top into leg ends. Plug or fill screw holes if desired.

Sketch – Tenon Detail

   | Wedge |
   |  ↑    |
   | / \   |
  [Tenon] ← Expands inside mortise
   \___/