Tongue and groove joint

A groove is made on the entire length of a wooden part, in which is then inserted the tongue that will fit on the entire length of another part.

Difficulty level :
Tools list
Project guide service
Related Projects
Page 1/3
When
The tools
How
1. Trace the lines
2. Separate into three equal portions
3. Identify the portions to be removed
4. Ajust the blade
5. Adjust the ripping fence
6. Cut
7. Make a second pass
8. Variations
9. To strengthen joints

When

To laterally join boards intended for making panels, tabletops, floors, etc., or to install shelves in furniture and make cupboard doors (see the “rail and stile” joint).

The tools

Traditionally, tongue and groove planes are used for making this joint, but nowadays a router or table saw is used.

How

This assembly method has a long history, because the related tools have existed for a long time, whereas the biscuit assembly method is much more recent.

The traditional tools, which are very effective and accurate, are also very simple to use: you have only to hold the board tightly in a vice, and then slide the appropriate plane on the part’s slice.

However, since these traditional specialized tools are harder to find, being replaced by multipurpose modern tools, this joint can be made using a router (see the “rail and stile” joint) or a table saw equipped with a standard saw. In the latter case:

1. Trace the lines

First, trace a line 3/16 in. from each end of the board’s tip.

2. Separate into three equal portions

Separate into three equal portions each of the spaces thus delimited
Page 1/3