Category: Custom Drawers

How To Make Dovetail Joints

What are the various dovetail joint types and how can they be created by hand?

Through Dovetails

The through dovetail is regarded as the most basic of all dovetail joints. Although basic, this is an incredibly strong joint that’s very aesthetically pleasing. Cleanly-cut through dovetails have even and consistent angles featuring no gaps between pins and tails.

It will take some skill and patience to craft through the joints by hand. With a router, though, dovetailing bit and jig can make nearly perfect dovetails almost instantly.

Half-Blind Dovetail Joints

With some classic joints, you may only want a portion of the dovetail to be visible. For example, a solid dresser drawer front should not show the dovetail joint. On the box sides, though, that is perfectly fine.

Half-blind dovetail joints are ideal in these cases. Again, use a router for this task for the best results possible.

Sliding Dovetail Joints

A sliding dovetail joint is not commonly used but it can come in handy with certain projects. This joint consists of a long groove with angled sides serving as the tail for the joint.

There will be a corresponding long pin which is cut into the end of the adjoining board. Some classic furniture pieces used sliding dovetail joinery for wooden drawer slides.

Dovetail Jigs

If you do not wish to cut dovetail by hand, you’ll want to utilize a dovetail jig. Each of the jigs will connect to the board while being cut. This allows you to easily guide the router with a dovetailing bit through the wood to cut matching tails and pins of a variety of dovetail joints.

Buy Dovetail Drawers Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

How To Make Wood Drawers Slide Easier

All homeowners have experienced trouble sliding wood drawers when they are stuck. The good news is there are many ways to fix this issue right at home. Below are five tips to make the drawers slide easier.

Tip 1. Soap

It may seem a bit odd, but the experts suggest trying to use a bar of soap before heading to the store for alternative supplies. Use an unscented bar of soap so it won’t end up attracting any unwanted pests.

Apply the soap all over the edges and surfaces of the drawer that touches the chest. Make sure to apply the soap as evenly as possible. Refrain from making it too thick because you want to make sure drawers can still slide back in afterward.

Tip 2. Sanding

It is possible for wood to become too bloated to fit inside the chest. If this is the case, a simple waxing will not work. You must now sand the surface of the drawer in an effort to reduce its size. After sanding, you can apply wax or any other wood coating to prevent it from either expanding or shrinking.

Tip 3. Candle

Candlesticks and tea candles can help release some stuck drawers. If you are using a tea candle for this project, ensure the scent will not attract any insects. It’s recommended to use a white candle as it won’t leave behind any visible stains.

Tip 4. Wax Paper

Wax paper is coated with paraffin wax, which will transfer to the wood’s surface when applied. Using wax paper can be pretty labor intensive, unfortunately. You will need to rub this paper many times to get the ideal amount of paraffin wax onto the wood.

Tip 5. Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is typically readily available in your local grocery store. Simply pull the drawer completely out then rub the wax all over the edges, sides and surfaces where the drawer is touching the chest.

If your drawer is almost impossible to pull out, you should rub the wax on the inside surfaces of the drawer that are visible. Slowly slide them back and pull outward. The sliding motions will push the wax to the unexposed surfaces, which makes them slide easier.

Buy Drawer Boxes Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

Constructing A Drawer Box

Are you looking for information on “Constructing A Drawer Box” or how to “Build Your Own Drawers“? Well, we put together a pretty solid guide that should show you step by step how to build your own drawer box at home.

With many DIYer’s, the terms “drawer dados” or “drawer dovetails” is enough to end them running off. However, there are simpler ways to create a drawer without the use of a router or table saw, while still ending with a beautiful and sturdy product. Are you stressed over fasteners being visible? Our design hides them in a clever way so they are not visible, giving a sturdy appearance. Keep reading to learn how you can build a drawer of any size quickly, and simply.

Required Time: 1 hour 30 Minutes

Difficulty Level: Pocket hole joinery and square cuts make this project easy and comfortable for beginners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these step by step instructions for how to build a drawer box.  Tools will be required for some steps such as saws, drills, and other hand tools.

  1. Cutting parts

By using the cut list and a miter saw, cut the 1×3, 1×6 and square dowels to the correct size. Mark the cut lines on the plywood’s face with a framing square. Position painter’s tape on the cut lines, if necessary mark again. By using painter’s tape, it helps prevent splintering plywood when cutting. Using a circular saw, cut along the lines. Then, sand the cut edges lightly to remove any burrs from around all parts.

  1. Drilling Pocket Holes

Place from and back pieces of the 1×3 on your work surface. Then, with the use of a Kreg Jig drill out two pocket holes, one on either end of the boards.

  1. Drilling Drawer Face Holes

Position the 1×6 drawer ace on your work surface, pocket holes should face downwards. Then, use your tape measure with a pencil for making two marks located 4-inches from each end of your board, and center its width. You will create two pilot holes with a Drill/Driver, which are used later on for attaching your drawer face.

  1. Adding Cleats to Front and Back Pieces

On the 1×3 piece, you will position an 18-inch cleat on both the front and back to be flush with the ends and bottom edges. Then, you will apply wood glue to the cleat with a bead pattern. Once you reposition it, you will need to nail it using a pneumatic nail gun with ¾-inch finishing nails to keep it in place.

  1. Attaching Cleats on the 1×3 Side Pieces

Remaining cleats should be placed on the 16-inch sides to be centered on the length, while flush with bottom edges. Doing this should create a 1 1/8-inch inset on either end of the cleats. Mark each end of the cleats using a pencil. Cleats should be removed, bead of wood glue applied, and position them in place again. Cleats then get secured with a pneumatic nail gun using ¾-inch finishing nails.

  1. Dry fit Sides

You should set the 1×3 boards upright so cleats are running along the bottom edge. Then, the front and back pieces should have glue applied, positioning them between the sides to be flush with each end.

  1. Assembling Sides

As we are not using fancy tools in this guide, we will use a basic method to hold the square joints for the assembling process. Position a block in the corner, ensuring it is an exact square. Then, clamping it to each side, make sure it is tight. This assists in holding piece in the correct position when inserting and driving the 1 ¼-inch pocket screws into the pocket holes and adjoining each side. When each of the four corners have been assembled, check that the assembly is square, then recheck with a framing or speed square. Measure corner to corner.

  1. Inserting Plywood Base

Place a bead of wood glue on the upper edge of every cleat. Place the plywood on the inside of the frame, ensuring they are on the cleats.

Tip: After painting or staining drawers, running a small clear caulking bead along the edge of your plywood base can help with keeping dust from getting between the 1×3 boards and plywood. In addition, if you plan to place heavy objects in the drawer, you should consider using 1/2-inch plywood.

  1. Attaching Drawer Face

On the 1×6 face, center the front of your drawer. Based on the application used, you should let the drawer face hang under the drawer box. Then, mark the position the drawer is hanging on to the 1×6. Remove the drawer, applying wood glue in the marked space, reposition your drawer. With a Drill/Driver drive in the 1-inch wood screws using your pilot hole in the front drawer and backside of your 1×6 drawer face.

Tip: To achieve a perfect fit, it is best if you completely install the drawer box prior to positioning and attaching the drawer face.

Buy Drawer Boxes Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

Which Is Superior: Knobs or Pulls?

You’ve selected the cabinets and finishes for your kitchen or bathroom remodel. However, it is now time to choose between knobs and pulls. These seemingly insignificant bits of gear may transform the functioning and appearance of your room. Nonetheless, if you are stuck in the knobs vs. pulls discussion, consider the following points.

Consider Cabinet Appointment

When choosing between knobs and pulls, style is not the only factor to consider. Consider cabinet location next. In many cases, knobs make it easier to open top cabinet doors. Lower cabinet access is made simpler by pulls.

Observe this Victorian kitchen. All upper cabinets have knobs, whereas the majority of lower cabinets have pulls. This historic kitchen is yet another excellent example. The majority of the lower cabinets and drawers have pulls, while the upper cabinets have knobs.

Cabinet Versus Drawer Distinction

Both cabinets and drawers require knobs and pulls. As you peruse images of inspiration, you may notice a pattern. Cabinet doors frequently feature knobs. In contrast, drawers typically feature pulls.

For example, the knobs on the under-sink cupboards in this coastal casual bathroom were chosen by the designer. However, pulls were added to the drawers. The same holds true for this quirky kitchen, where mismatched pulls and knobs decorated the lower and top cabinets, respectively.

Click here to shop for dowel drawer boxes online

Dowel Joints

 what-is-a-dowel-joint-custom-dowel-joint-drawers

Dowels joints are a way that drawers sections are fastened together. Including dowels in the connecting sections of wood make more accurate, stronger connections that simply using glue alone. Dowel joints are incredibly strong and visually attractive if they are done right. This type of joint is very popular for drawers or other woodworking in which a butt joint is being used. It helps increase the strength and durability of the joint.

What Are Dowel Joints Used For?

Dowel joints are used in a wide variety of woodworking projects. They offer a number of benefits during production and after.

Increased strength – Miter and butt joints are sometimes only glued together. This means that the stresses of whatever use the wood sees will wear on the joint. Humidity can also dry out or cause glue to lose its adhesive properties. Dowels are added to the joints by drilling into each joining piece of wood so the corresponding holes share a dowel.  Having the dowels physically connect the wood dramatically increases strength.

Keeping It Straight – When producing wood products without dowels it can be a challenge to glue and clamp down the pieces without them moving during the drying and setting time. The inclusion of dowels ensures that everything is perfectly lined up and when glued and clamped it is perfectly straight and dries stronger.

Pin Joints – Certain types of joints require the ability to twist. Dowels are generally round in shape, which allows a certain level of twisting. This is easier and more simple than other tail-and-pin joints.

Dowels Work Better Than Biscuits – Biscuit cuts are easier and faster to make but are not as strong or durable. The material is thin and has a possibility to absorb humidity and swell. This can mean a bulge in the joint material and the extra stress can cause it to loosen or fail entirely.

Advantages Of Dowel Joints

No Need For Metal Fasteners – Nails, staples, and screws are fine when found behind sheetrock. For custom drawers or other fine interior cabinetry features they are visually disturbing and upset the grain patterns we all love. Dowels do the job while not being seen.

Increased Durability And Strength – Because the wooden dowel runs inside the connecting wood sections it holds fast and is much stronger. Nails, screws or staples are thinner and many times are not properly installed. They can stretch and splinter the wood making it weaker. This adversely affects the lifespan of whatever wooden structure is being made.

What Are Dowels Made Of?

Dowels can be made from metal, plastic, or more commonly wood. In custom drawer and cabinetry the internal dowel joints are made of wood. For cabinet shelves metal dowels are very common. They are good choices for the moving of shelves. This is good for moving shelves but wooden dowels are used for custom drawer manufacturing as they have increased grain and friction inside the drilled holes and increased durability.

Custom Dowel Joint Drawer Production

Drawer Connection, Inc. has been making customer drawers since 1997 and can produce any drawers you need. Be it dovetail or dowel we can custom make the drawers you want for your kitchen, custom closet organization system, bathroom cabinetry or anywhere else you need to have drawers. Give us a call to get your project started at 1-877-917-4887. Stay tuned for more from the expert drawer box manufacturers at DCDrawers.com

Dovetail Drawers

If you’re searching for the advantages of dovetail joints when considering which type of drawer boxes to purchase, this post should help.  Dovetail Drawers are a common concept in the professional bath and kitchen cabinetry industry. But not one that all homeowners are familiar with.  What a dovetail joint is usually only comes up when deciding which type is best for their bathroom or kitchen.

Dovetail Drawers have long been the standard in premium cabinet making. Despite the appeal and popularity, not many people are sure of what they exactly are.  Let us explain further what a dovetail joint is and why they are the premium drawer box option.

What Are Dovetail Drawers?

The term “Dovetail Drawer” pertains to a particular design structure of the drawer, where the drawer compartment is made of solid wood and a dovetail joint secures the sides of the drawer with its front. This distinctive joint that resembles pieces from a jigsaw puzzle perpendicularly joined together at the drawers outside corners makes dovetail drawers easily recognizable.

There are several benefits to designing a drawer to have this structure, some of which we’ll outline further in the article.

Considered a premium drawer option among homeowners, dovetail drawers differ from regular drawers in how they’re constructed and the kind of joint they use is exclusive to dovetail drawers. Some drawer manufacturers even use Dovetail Joints on pull out shelves. This particular joint is called a locking joint, and comprises of wedge-shaped cuts at the end of the wooden frame that fit into each other from each side, forming a box. These cuts, or pins and tails as they’re called, form an incredibly strong and resistant box when they fit into each other. The joint is so strong, in fact, that even when the drawer breaks, it rarely breaks from the area of the joint.

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Large Surface Area

It’s not just the mechanics of the locking joint that make it so durable, but also the large surface area it provides to apply glue on, and this increased amount of glue between the joints enhances the drawer’s durability and strength.

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Dovetail Drawer Design

The design of the joint also allows for increased storage space, and even more so in English dovetails, which are the ones that attract most popularity and easily become a part of all kinds of furniture. French dovetail drawers lean towards the specialty and luxury furniture market with pieces that have curved fronts, and joints on the drawer sides shaped such that they slide upwards and fit in a trench shaped opening running through the front piece.

English Dovetail

The English Dovetail is one where you can see the ends of the adjoining pieces at the corners of the drawers.  This is the premium type of dovetail joint design as it is the tightest and longest lasting joint.  The English Dovetail makes the joint at the very edge of the wood, which means you get the most space inside the drawer.  In the finest drawers and furniture you will find the English Dovetail as it’s simply stronger and better looking.

French Dovetail

The French Dovetail differs greatly from the English Dovetail. Instead of having numerous “fingers” that joint to create an incredibly strong corner the French dovetail is 1 channel cut in board A and board B is shaped to fit in that channel.  This design is simply inferior as it hinges the durability of the drawer on thin edges of wood inside the channel.  French dovetail joints also must be made a distance in from the corner of the wood, which means the drawers are more narrow or not as deep.

Sliding Dovetail

Believe it or not all dovetail joints are sliding dovetail joints.  Dovetail joints are by nature and definition those where two pieces of wood are machined to have corresponding sections that slide together.  So all dovetail drawers are sliding dovetail joints.  With that said a lot of consumers call the French Dovetail a “sliding joint” as it does slide together further.

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Dovetail Drawer Joints

As mentioned earlier, the way the joints are constructed is what makes dovetail drawers unique, and this is also what brings its advantages. These locking joints enable the drawer to be stronger and sturdier, at the same time offering a larger storage space.Although often seen as a standard for good quality drawers, this isn’t always the case. With a variety of different drawer constructions, you should assess the drawers’ sturdiness and storage capacity when on the lookout for the right drawers for your cabinets.

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Dovetail Advantages Over Other Drawers

Dovetail drawers take the lead against ordinary drawers as the locking joints ensure that the drawer sides and front are securely held together, forming a durable bond that easily withstands minor wear and damage. Not all wooden drawers are made of solid wood, with your average drawer comprising of particleboard planks stapled together, but dovetail drawers are, which becomes an immediate advantage as people can be confident while making a purchase that the drawers are a hundred percent wood.This wood goes through a sanding, buffing and finishing process before it is cut with precision to fit in the locking joint. This results in an end product that is sturdy and durable but also stunning to look at, and a trademark of pure craftsmanship.

While dovetail drawers remain the standard for hundreds of years, the industrial revolution and modern advancements gave way to much faster and cheaper mass production of particleboard drawers with pieces stapled together by industrial machines. What came out of this was certainly an economical product, but one which lacked the durability, the refinement and the uniqueness of the dovetail drawer.

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Biggest Advantages Of Dovetail Drawers

There are 3 key advantages to quality dovetail joints when constructing drawers or furniture.  These advantages are primarily about the English Dovetail Joint, as it is the standard for the highest quality and most durable woodwork.

1. Sturdiness: 

As the sides of the drawer seamlessly fit into the front, this creates a strong bond that glued or stapled drawers can’t match. The use of solid wood rather than thin and less sturdy particle boards in making drawer boxes also enhances the durability and strength of the drawer.The perfect integration of solid wood and a locking joint in the drawer makes for a premium drawer that ordinary drawers can’t compare to.

2. Durability: 

As mentioned above, the solid wood and the locking joint enhance the drawer’s durability and make for a drawer that could easily last a lifetime. Whereas regular drawers have drawer glides on each side, open to wear and tear, dovetail drawers feature glides underneath the drawer box. Since they are the only part of the drawer that takes the brunt of the work and consequential wear, the best place for them is underneath the drawer, which is exactly where the dovetail drawer puts them.

3. Craftsmanship:

Due to the amount of detail, precision, and craftsmanship that goes into the production of a dovetail, they have a premium feel to them that is still considered a standard in luxury cabinet making. Those with a refined taste will appreciate the drawers’ seamless construction and how smoothly it slides in and out of the cabinet.To ensure a premium drawer that looks stunning and works without a flaw, dovetail drawers need to be crafted with utmost precision, focus and above all, patience; all of which makes way for a product superior than most its counterparts.

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Conclusion

Although there are many consideration and features that factor in on how long your cabinet fixtures are going to last, an important one is dovetail drawers. Their quality and durability is rarely matched, and they are sure to enhance the performance and the lifespan of your cabinetry.

More About DC Drawers (Drawer Connection)

At Drawer Connection, our philosophy is to “give customers the drawer quality they deserve at a price they can afford.” And we have been doing just that since 1997. We provide our customers with the highest quality materials, craftsmanship and customer service. Our dedication to exceeding your expectations ensures that you will receive a high-quality product, complete to your specifications, and on time.

At Drawer Connection, our philosophy is to “give customers the drawer quality they deserve at a price they can afford.” And we have been doing just that since 1997. We provide our customers with the highest quality materials, craftsmanship and customer service. Our dedication to exceeding your expectations ensures that you will receive a high-quality product, complete to your specifications, and on time. Give us a call today for more information about dovetail drawers 1 (877) 917-4887. Stay tuned for more from the expert drawer box manufacturers at DCDrawers.com

Installing Sliding Drawers

Installing Sliding Drawers

There are many kinds of drawer slides one can either construct or purchase. In this guide, we look at one of the most popular: full extension ball bearing slides. They are durable, easy to install and long lasting and can be installed by anyone!

Costs:

This is an inexpensive project with the parts costing around $12. It will take an average time of twenty minutes to complete and as long as you can carefully measure, you will see the slide screws go right into place.

Tools:

  • Pencil
  • Tape Measure
  • Straight edge or Ruler
  • Driver/Drill

Materials:

  • Pair of ball bearing full-extension drawer slides. In our example, we will use 14 inch slides

How To Install Drawer Slides – Step By Step

  1. Mark The Placement Of The Slide. Measuring from the inside floor of the cabinet to a point of 8.75 inches neat front and back of each side wall. Using the marks as a guide, take a ruler and draw a level line on each inside wall of the cabinet. Then make a mark 7/8ths of an inch from the front edge of the cabinet, hence allowing room for the thickness of the drawer front plus a 1/8th of an inch inset.
  2. Position Of The Slides. Align the bottom edge of the first slide above the line and then. position the front edge of the slide behind the mark near the face of the cabinet.
  3. Slide Installation. Hold the slide firmly in place and push the extension forward until both sets of screw holes can be seen. Using a drill/driver, drill shallow pilot holes in one screw hole near the front and back of the slide. Using the screws provided, mount the slide to the inside of the cabinet. Then you need to repeat steps 2 and 3 in order to mount the second drawer slide on the opposite side of the cabinet.
  4. Marking The Drawer Slides. With a tape measure, mark the center of the height of the drawer box on its outer side walls. Using a straightedge, mark a horizontal line along the outside of the drawer box on each side.
  5. Positioning The Slide Extension. Take the detachable section of each drawer slides, and place them on the corresponding drawer side. Position the drawer slides so that they are centered on their corresponding line and flush with the face of the drawer box.
  6. Slide Attachment. Using a drill/driver and the screws provided with the drawer slides, mount the slide to the drawer.
  7. Insert The Drawer. Hold the drawer level in front of the cabinet. Place the ends of the slides attached to the drawers into the tracks inside the cabinet. Pressing evenly on each side of the drawer, slide the drawer into place. The first slide inward can sometimes push a bit tougher, but once the tracks are engaged, the drawer should slide back out and in smoothly.
  8. Positioning The Drawer Face. Apply wood glue to the face of the drawer box. With the drawer closed, position the drawer face with equal gaps along the top and side edges. Using clamps, secure the drawer face against the drawer box.
  9. Attaching The Face Of The Drawer. Carefully slide the drawer open, and then drive 1-inch screws through the holes in the drawer box and into the back of the drawer face to secure it in place.

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877-917-4887

Nationwide Drawer Slide Supplier

If you have broken drawer slides, are starting a new cabinetry project, or are simply remodeling your kitchen or bathroom Drawer Connection has the best selection of drawer slides. We have soft close, push to open, self-close, and many more quality options that keep your drawers opening and closing smoothly. Visit our site to get started or call us at 877-917-4887.

What Is A Dovetail Joint? Types of Dovetail Joinery

Different-Types-Of-Dovetail-Joint-Techniques-Woodworking-Images

If you’re searching for “What Is A Dovetail Joint?” or “Types Of Dovetail Joints“, this article should help. This post covers what a dovetail joint is, how it is made and different types of dovetail joints. Use the navigation below to guide you to the section of this page you are interested in.


On This Page:

  1. What Is A Dovetail Joint?
  2. Applications of a Dovetail Joint?
  3. What type of wood are dovetail drawers made out of?
  4. Other Applications Of Dovetail Joints
  5. History of Dovetail Joinery
  6. Different Types Of Dovetail Joints
  7. Half blind dovetail vs. Through dovetail
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Contact Us
877-917-4887

What Is A Dovetail Joint?

Dovetail Joint Definition: What is a dovetail joint? A dove·tail or /ˈdəvˌtāl/ joint is an interlocking joinery technique used by carpenters or woodworkers for building strong custom wood drawers. There are many different types of Dovetail Joint techniques used in woodworking such as, through dovetail joint, secret mitred dovetail joints, secret double-lapped dovetail joints, sliding dovetail joints, and half-blind dovetail joints. View more information about each type below.

Applications of a Dovetail Joint?

Dovetail joints are most commonly used woodworking. Carpenters use dovetail joints to create cabinets, furniture, drawers, log buildings, carcass construction, timber framing. Dovetail joints are known for their strength and durability. Dovetail joints don’t require mechanical fasteners to stick together like other joinery techniques do. Rather, dovetail joints use pins and tails to interlock together, where one side has a pin that locks into the other side’s tail, and then glued together for a solid dovetail construction. The benefits of dovetail drawers are endless.

Other Applications Of Dovetail Joints

Dovetail joints are extremely strong due to the way their pins and tails are shaped. The interlocking pins and tails make it more difficult to pull apart the joint and almost impossible to pull apart after gluing. Dovetail joints are commonly used in jewelry boxes, dovetail drawers, furniture, and cabinets where more strength is needed. Dovetail joints require skilled woodworking to build and are almost impossible to build manually. There are 4 different types of dovetail joints used for different applications.

What Type Of Wood Are Dovetail Drawers Made Out Of?

Dovetail-Joined-Logs

Dovetail Joinery techniques can be used on nearly any type of solid wood including maple, aspen, melamine’s, plywood’s, alder, and oak. View below to find our what dovetail joints are used for and the different types of dovetail joint techniques used by woodworkers, furniture building, and dovetail drawer box manufacturers.

History of Dovetail Joinery

Dovetail-Joint-Diagram

The dovetail joinery technique goes all the way back to earliest days of mankind. Some examples of dovetail joinery are found in furniture dating back to ancient Egypt and Chinese Emperors.

Different Types Of Dovetail Joints

What are the different types of dovetail joints? There are 5 different types of dovetail joint methods available.

Through Dovetail Joints

Through Dovetail Joints technique images

A Through joint is where the end grain is visible from both boards. Through dovetail joints are most commonly used on box construction and carcass (framework of the piece).  This joint is also called a plain dovetail by many in the woodworking community.  In the past the ends showing through would have been masked by a veneer.  Today they are a sign of exceptional quality and are left showing with pride.

Though dovetail joints are referred to as English dovetail joints in the case of drawer construction.

Half-blind Dovetail Joints or Single-lap Dovetail

Secret Double-Lapped Dovetail Joints Techinique Images

A half-blind dovetail joint also known as the single-lap dovetail joint is exactly opposite of a through joint because the end grain is not visible on the boards. Sockets house the tails at the end of the boards so the dovetail ends are invisible.

Half-blind dovetail joints are commonly used for attaching drawer fronts.

Half blind dovetail vs. Through dovetail

The only difference between half-blind dovetail joints and through dovetail joints is that half-blind joint end grain can only be seen on one side vs. through joint grain that can be seen of both sides of the boards.

Secret Mitred Dovetail Joints

Secret Mitred Dovetail Joints Images Technique

A secret mitred joint is also know as a full-blind mitred dovetail and full-blind dovetail joint. Secret mitred joints are used in box work and cabinet construction and offers the best strength out of all of the dovetail joints. These joints are used for box work or fine cabinet construction where strength is needed without a joint you can see.

Secret Double-Lapped Dovetail Joints

Secret Double-Lapped Dovetail Joints Techinique Images

The secret double-lapped dovetail joint is kind of the like the mitred joint but has a visible section of end grain on a single edge of the joint. similar to the secret mitred dovetail, but presents a very thin section of end grain on one edge of the joint.

Secret double-lapped joints are used for box construction and carcass construction to hid the dovetails.

Sliding Dovetail Joints

Sliding Dovetail Joints techiniques images

The sliding dovetail joint is created by joining 2 wood boards at 90 degree angles, where the they intersect different than other types of dovetail joints. They intersect by sliding the tail of one board into the middle socket of the other. Sliding dovetail joints are commonly referred to French Dovetail joints.

Sliding joints are commonly used to joint cabinet sides to shelves, sides to cabinet bottoms, shelves to horizontal partitions, table frames to adjacent sections, sides to drawer fronts, cabinet sides to front rails, body and neck in guitars and violins.

Buy Dovetail Drawer Boxes At DC Drawers

Thank you for reading our definition of a dovetail joint and the different types of dovetail joints. If you are looking for the highest quality premade dovetail drawer boxes Drawer Connection is your source for quick order fulfillment and consistent quality. Stay tuned for more from the expert drawer box manufacturers at DCDrawers.com

For more information give us a call at 1-877-917-4887.

Wood Joint Pros & Cons

Wood Joinery Pros & Cons

Are you searching for the Pros & Cons Of Wood Joinery? If so, this article should help!  There are many different wood joinery methods to choose from.  Depending on the project one may work better than another.  Learn all about the various woodworking joint types in this post!

What is Wood Joinery?

Replacement Drawer Box Page Divder

Wood joinery is marrying 2 pieces of wood into a single joint, it is an ancient craft which is used for making furniture, flooring, framing, and cabinetry. How easy the production of wood joints is depends on what is being constructed. Each project will also be different on its strengths and its purpose.

Pros & Cons Of Wood Joinery

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There are different joints used for different projects, for not all wood joints are made the same. You will find that there are some advantages and also disadvantages in the different methods of wood joining, as well as for each of the species of wood that are joined.

Butt Joint Pros & Cons 

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When joining wood joints together, you will find that the easiest to join will be the butt joint. The joint butt is merely gluing one piece of wood to another piece. An end grain of wood is joined to a long grain of wood by the weakest sections using plates, pins, and/or dowels to reinforce the connection so that it is going to stand up to a certain amount of pressure. A butt joint can be broken apart with your hands if it is not stabilized.

Dovetail Joint Pros & Cons 

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The most common place you are going to see a dovetail joint is on the front of drawers, as they are used to connect them together. Pins extend from one of the boards and is connected to tails that are cut on the end of the adjoining board. The dovetail joint will be extremely strong and is resistant to pulling apart. This is because after it has been glued there are pins and tails that are trapezoidal-shaped that take on a permanent hold. There will be no need for nails. This type of joint may be too hard for a beginner, as it needs precision cutting.

Dowel Joint Pros & Cons 

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“Dowel joints help to remove the need for screws, staples and nails. This helps to remove the potential injuries that often happen while working with hardware, but it can also help to give the project a more finished look as there is nothing to disrupt the grain pattern.”

Dowel Joint Pros

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  • Dowling is a quick process.
  • It helps to ensure a neat finish.
  • There is no need for screws, nails or other equipment.
  • Dowel joints are the strongest type of joints when it comes to woodworking, especially when using multiple rows of dowels.
  • Dowels help to create strong joints that are easy to make at home.

Dowel Joint Cons

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  • Misalignment Of Joints
  • Dowel Shearing
  • Weaker Joint
  • No Face To Face Grain Contact

Read more from our other post about the advantages and disadvantages of Dowel Joints.

Mortise And Tenon Joint Advantages 

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Mortise & Tenon is used generally when corner joints need to have sturdy frames for making things such as doors, tables, windows, and beds. A rectangular slot is referred to as a Mortise cut, and it is cut into the (exact) center of the end piece of wood so that it will except the protuberance fitting (the Tenon), thus, making a clean, strong joint. After it has been glued and well fitted, the wood joints will not move, and will be very hard to get apart. To be sure that the mortise is perfectly one-third as thick as the wood, it has to have precise measurements, this is to avoid any splitting of the mortise, and Tenon breakage.

Finger Joint Pros & Cons

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Finger Joint Pros

  • Makes a straighter joint
  • Less wood gets wasted during manufacturing
  • Cost Effective
  • Durable for a vertical load
  • Adhesives can be applied to create a stronger joint than mortise and tenon

Finger Joint Cons

  • Can come out crooked
  • Harder to achieve a smooth wall

Bridle Joint Pros & Cons

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Bridle joints are similar to mortise and tenon but the tenon and other member are cut to slot into each other.  These are popular joints for frames and to join rails, legs, and stiles.

Bridle Joint Pros

  • Simpler alternative to the mortise and tenon joint
  • Can shape joint assembly and not sacrifice strength
  • Great for constructing narrow frames
  • One of the simplest joints to cut
  • Doesn’t require a mortising machine

Bridle Joint Cons

  • Can see end grain which makes it less attractive

Rebate Joint Pros & Cons 

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A rebate joint has commonalities to the butt joint in woodworking.  The biggest difference between the two is a groove that is cut out of one of the ends that increases holding strength.  It is used most commonly when a simple joint is wanted but when strength is required.  It is used commonly in cabinet  making and other carpentry projects.  In some cases dowels, screws, or nails can be added to increase the strength for load bearing joints.    The surfaces of a rebate joint are typically big enough that timber blocks shouldn’t be necessary.

Tongue & Groove Joint Pros & Cons 

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You are going to need a tongue and grove joint when joining a wood edge to another wood edge, like if you were making a tabletop, laminating a floor, or connecting hardwood or paneling. The entire length of one piece has to be slotted or grooved so that it accepts the tongue cut that runs down the edge of the adjoining piece. The boards will be drawn together (without any lateral pressure), and they remain this way. Depending on what the product is, glue may not be necessary to use. It is easier to measure the Tongue and grove joints, and also easy to produce if you use a router having a depth setting capability.

High Quality Joint Drawer Boxes

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If you’re in the market for drawer boxes DC Drawers proudly crafts the best cabinet drawer boxes using the dowel joint or durable dovetail joint.  When you place your order with DC Drawers you’re getting the best quality, fastest turnaround, and best prices anywhere.  Shop dovetail drawer boxes or dowel drawer boxes.

Thank you for reading “Wood Joint Pros & Cons“! Stay tuned for more from the expert drawer box manufacturers at DCDrawers.com

How To Build A Drawer Without Dovetails

To build a drawer without dovetails the most durable way is to use dowels.  Other options include dado joints, rabbet joints, or reinforced butt joints.

Which method you choose as a homeowner, contractor or cabinet maker depends on the budget, aesthetics, how fast the job calls for the drawers to be done.  Each of these factors will influence which type of joint you choose without using dovetails.

Drawer Boxes Joints

When building drawer boxes there are 3 joint areas you need to keep in mind.  The sides to the back, sides the front, and how to join the bottom to the drawer box.

Attaching Sides To Front & Back

When it comes to attaching the sides to the front and back of the drawer box there are several methods in addition to the dovetail.  Dovetail joints tend to be one of the hardest and most technical joints to make, so this guide will focus on the alternative ways to build a drawer boxes without the dovetail joint.

Dowel Joints

One of the very best ways to build a drawer without dovetails is a dowel joint.  The dowel joint offers much of the strength and durability of the dovetail and still has an attractive look.  A dowel joint is made by drilling holes through the sides of the drawer box into the edges of the front and back.  Then tightly fitting wooden dowels are fitted into the wood to hold it in place.  Strong wood glues are used to anchor the dowels and joints together.

Dado Joints

Dado joints are also an option for drawer construction without dovetails.  A dado is when one of the edge pieces is cut to the exact thickness of the rest of the wood.  Then the sections are fitted together tightly with the addition of wood glue.  This type of joint relies heavily on the tightness of the joint fit along with the strength of the wood glue.

Rabbet Joints

Rabbet joints are those that have an recessed open channel on the end of board where the side, front, or back will fit into.  This joint can be mixed with dado joints for additional strength.  There are a number of types of rabbet joints such as mitered rabbet joints, half-lap rabbets, shiplap joints and more.

Reinforced Butt Joints

Butt joints are by far the most simple type of joint imaginable.  They are when a section of wood simply butts up against the other section of the drawer frame and is fastened. Fastening can be done with staples, screws, but the most visually attractive and longest lasting is when dowels are used.

Stapled Drawer Boxes

In our experience this is a recipe for wasted money and frustration.  The staples tend to slide out when weight is put in the drawer.  In addition, the front of the drawers get loose as they are opened hundreds of times a year.  While staples are used by some DIY’ers and companies, we recommend against choosing to use staples with cabinet drawer boxes.

Attaching The Bottom

The bottom of the drawer is typically always going to be joined by sliding it into a groove which is cut in the bottom of the sides, front, and back.  The height this is done at is variable and should be considered depending on what depth of drawer is desired.  You can leave a whole inch above the bottom of the drawer or they can be flush mounted for maximum storage space.

Shop Drawer Boxes Online

If you’d like to simply purchase high quality drawer boxes so you can avoid having to spend hours in your garage Drawer Connection has you covered.  Even if you’re a cabinetry company our team makes drawer boxes faster and inexpensively.

Let us take care of the details while you focus your skilled labor on custom work and installs.  We build high quality dowel joint drawer boxes and are happy to ship your drawer boxes assembled or in flat pack quick assembly kits.

Click here to shop for dowel drawer boxes online