>I like Shaker furniture and the sliding dovetail seems to be used often.I have made a few sliding dt's in pine using a saw and square and chisel. I did not know dovetail planes existed. Is this a useful joint and is it practical to continue making with just a chisel and saw and no plane? I think making the sliding DT in hard wood might be more difficult than the pine I have used and am wondering about getting a dovetail plane which is a little pricey. I would appreciate any comments re the joints usefulness and how you make this joint efficiently.
>The sliding dovetail is a very useful joint. It is used to attach shelves or drawer dividers into carcasses among other things.
I would think it easier,with sharp tools, to make one in hardwood than pine.Pine is too fragile.I learned to make them without a plane and still do.I think a plane would make it easier but it's not necessary.I saw and chisel the male part.The female part I saw,chisel,then clean out and level with a router plane.---Jack
>a bonnet top cradle using Norm's plans and used a sliding dovetail to attach the rockers. There is a picture in Shopshots from about June of 2004. Sad to say that these two joints were made with electrons. Since that time I have acquired a few dovetail planes and am itching to put them to work. These joints are good for 17th cent slab sided case goods. Like any joint, they can be made with simple tools, but if you have lots to make I think the planes are quicker. Good luck in your quest.
