Stan Calow
06-30-2018, 12:02 PM
I use breadboard ends on most tabletops and chest lids to hide end grain. I have normally followed rule of thumb that tenons should be 1/3 thickness of workpiece. For a 4/4 top (3/4") thats a 1/4" tenon. Then I see another rule of thumb that says tenons should be no less than 3/8". That leaves pretty narrow shoulders in 4/4. I guess 5/16" would be a compromise, but I want to know what others do and reasons why. I have done a search and googled, where I see most plans/videos are OK with 1/4". Maybe it matters less in a lid versus a table, or since its a breadboard end, not a frame or apron. I want to stick with 4/4 tops. Your thought appreciated.