Christopher Schwarz

9/13/04, 2:24 AM #1

Jack Guzman from Maine
Master Craftsman
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Registered: 5/9/04

Christopher Schwarz

Jack Guzman from Maine

>Chris,

I'm making a walnut version of the shaker side table you featured in "Woodworking". In the article the mortises on the legs are open at the top.Is this only to make it easier to do with power tools? I plan on hand cutting all the joints. I think it would be easier to cut the dovetails for the front rail if the mortises were closed rather than having to deal with such a fragile joint. Could you comment on this? Anyone elses opinions are welcome also.

thanks,

Jack

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I am a carpenter by trade.Also a handyman/Jack -of-all-trades.I work around my neighborhood mostly helping people keep up their old houses.I have a fairly large woodworking shop in my house where I work with both hand and power tools. At the moment I'm focusing on Windsor chairs building.I will build most anything if needed. I'm always learning,adapting,changing trying to broaden my woodworking skills.I work mostly with hand tools in my shop but will use power if it is a better way to get the desired result. My wife,Donna,and I live in the woods of Maine with our dogs,cats,and birds. We have 5 grown kids and six grandchildren. Woodcentral has been central to my growth as a woodworker. I pass through this place every day.

Re: Christopher Schwarz

9/13/04, 2:44 AM #2

Christopher Schwarz
Guest

By hand, things are different

Christopher Schwarz

>Jack,

I've built that table a number of times and in a number of ways. You are exactly right that the method shown in the article is to make it uber-simple for the power-tool user.

By hand, I'd cut the joint so there was a 1/4"-long haunch at the top of the tenon. I'd probably make the haunch 3/4" wide or so. The haunch makes your apron less likely to cup. With the measurements above the leg should stay pretty stout throughout the joinery and assembly.

It's a great table. I sold the last two I made in less than eight hours. Perhaps I need to raise my price for the next set.

If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to call.

Chris

Christopher Schwarz

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