What is the mortise and tenon method?

A woodworking frame and box joints (Photo by Jordanhill Schools)

There are a number of ways in which log furniture is manufactured. One of the more common methods is called the mortise and tenon method. In basic terms, this involves joining multiple pieces of wood to construct some sort of structure or furniture piece. This method of woodworking has been in use for thousands of years in various parts of the world. It is generally considered the most effective way of manufacturing log furniture that is sturdy and durable over a long period of time.

According to WoodWorkDetails.com, this method is primarily used when the adjoining pieces of wood are connected at 90-degree angle. The basic formula for mortise and tenon manufacturing involves two different elements. The “mortise” is a square or rectangular hole that is cut on the side of a log or other piece of wood. The “tenon” is found at the end of a log and is cut and formed to protrude out from the log so that it fits precisely into the mortise cavity. The tenon is then inserted into the mortise hole. The tenon typically has “shoulders” that form around the mortise hole when the logs are completely joined together. Glue, a pin, or a separate wedge may be used on the joint area to ensure that the pieces will be as tightly connected as possible.

As described by Rockler.com, here is an example of how a log chair is made using this method: The ends of a chair’s legs are cut into a circular shape. These legs are considered the tenon. They are then fitted into a round hole, which is the mortise, in the bottom of the chair’s seat. In the past, chair leg tenons were made by whittling down the end of a wood log by hand until it was about the same size and shape of a mortise hole. But with advances in modern technology, it is much easier to do this. Manufacturing equipment can be used to get an exact shape for the mortise and tenon to make a perfect joint.

LogFurniture.com is your source for information about log furniture and the various methods used to manufacture it. It’s always a good idea to find out how pieces of log furniture were made before going ahead and purchasing them because some methods are better than others, especially when it comes to how long the furniture will hold up.

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