Carcase Dovetails

[Randy Klein]

Was wondering how to configure the pins and tails for carcase dovetails (such as on a chest of drawers). I've seen it done both ways and wanted to check here to see if anyone has insight.

Do the pins go on the sides and the tails on the top and bottom piece? Or vice versa? Or a mix of the two?

[Jay Knepper]

In a carcase, where it is not clear to me that there is a strength advantage one way or the other, I decide this based on appearance. I like to look at the pin ends rather than the tail ends. So the more visible face, i.e. the sides in a taller piece or one with a separate top, gets the tails.

[Al Navas]

Randy,

If it helps any, please take a look at this, and at the remainder of the photos on my blog - this tells it all, as I prefer to be able to see the tails on the ends:


http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y136/Sandal_Woods/Tables/Changingtable-Waterloxandtopon.jpg



.

[Tom Cowie]

I use Dovetails in most projects that I build. Although I don't use them for strength all the time because the quality of glues out there allows me to use them in a more eye pleasing manner. To stay with a " traditional method" limits the possibilities.


Tom

[John Lucas]

Well, I was going to say I like t he pins in front and back, but when I went to site for a pic, I found this one with themgoing both ways...no fair.

http://www.woodshopdemos.com/bchst-160.jpg

Here is made the jig using the Stots Dovetail Master.
http://www.woodshopdemos.com/stots438.jpg

And here is Beth doing a blanket chest:
http://www.woodshopdemos.com/jess-1155.jpg

She wins hands down.