I've been trying to expand my skill set to include hand cut dados. My recent addition of a paring chisel and a decent router plane inspired me. My current process:


  • Strike deep knife lines at desired dado borders. Knife bevel to inside of dado.
  • Peel back stock along knife line with paring chisel to create a guide wall for saw.
  • Using carcass saw, cut to desired depth along knife walls.
  • Remove bulk of waste with paring chisel.
  • Finish with router plane to assure flat bottom.
  • If required, clean the bottom corners to assure the inserted piece will sit flat.


It's working pretty well, but I've had a tough time getting a crisp, snug fit. I'm either too tight or too loose. It's been OK for utilitarian service like shelves in the basement, but I'm not up to "furniture grade" yet. Any suggestions besides lots more practice? I'm wondering if purposely working a bit undersized and sneaking up on the fit with a side rabbet plane would yield the results I'm looking for.