Half lap dovetail joint

[Tim Best]

Hi all,

Just polling the collective and looking for constructive ideas on the proper use of a half lap dovetail joint (it probably has other names.) During my tinkering tonight in the shop, I decided to cut one. I had seen versions on the Moravian workbench and I used my memory of that to cut my half lap dovetail with some scrap wood. Once done and once the glue tacked up, it occurred to me that it is strong joint and must have numerous applications. Does anyone use this joint? How often does it come into play for your work? Thanks.

Tim

[William Fretwell]

Have used it for drawer runners under a coffee table where it will never be seen. Not what I call an attractive joint, just strong and functional. On the few occasions I’ve used it, always out of sight.

[Tim Best]

Thanks, William. That was kind of my thought too. It seemed functional and strong, but not pretty. Not sure why I decided to cut one aside from a desire to chop out some unsuspecting cherry off cuts that were destined for the burn pile.