Joinery Question - How is this Done

[JohnM Martin]

I was hoping someone here might be able to point me in the right direction for how to do the joinery to attach a shelf to the bottom of a typical shaker nightstand table.

Here's an example from Fine Woodworking

378142

I've searched around a little bit online but haven't really found a lot.

[Derek Cohen]

John, it looks like the corners of the shelf are resting in a mortice/triangular slot (in the legs).

Regards from Perth

Derek

[glenn bradley]

I agree that notched legs would be my go-to for this.

[Jim Koepke]

Also notice in the image the shelf has 'breadboard' ends in the joinery. This helps to strengthen and support the shelf.

jtk

[ernest dubois]

I don't think that platform is very Shaker at all.

[Metod Alif]

Ernest,
I don't think that OP's question fits your answer.
Metod

[steven c newman]

Breadboards have a tenon, that fits into a small mortise in each leg. Allows the Breadboard to wrap around the leg.

IF I get around to it, today..I can post a drawing of sorts...IF you want.

[JohnM Martin]

I don't think that platform is very Shaker at all.

That is a fair point - my apologies.

[JohnM Martin]

Breadboards have a tenon, that fits into a small mortise in each leg. Allows the Breadboard to wrap around the leg.

IF I get around to it, today..I can post a drawing of sorts...IF you want.

Sure, if you have time... I'm here to learn.

[William Fretwell]

I don't think that platform is very Shaker at all.

I think that's a fair comment given the context of the picture, and you are right! At that level the leg is 7/8" giving scanty room for the ledged joint (I just measured mine), weakening the leg. You also have to move the table to vacuum.

[Derek Cohen]

The table is Shaker-esque. The shelf is not.

Regards from Perth

Derek

[Travis Porter]

I built some longer tables with a shelf like this years ago.

I did a mortise and tenon lower rail at the front and the back, and then "floated" the panel pretty much like breadboard ends.

[steven c newman]

378332
Before I installed a top
378333
Add after...