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Reader's Gallery

Better Way to Attach Tabletops

comments (0) June 8th, 2010 in Reader's Gallery

Betsy Engel, contributor

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Table by Andrew Hunter

Photo: John Waldie

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Andrew Hunter explains why he uses the sliding dovetail joint to secure tabletops to their bases. This construction method keeps a solid-board top flat and allows for seasonal expansion and contraction. It also looks great. A taper along the length of the joint makes it tight and solid. And because glue is not used, the table can be broken down if need be. The author gives directions for using two types of sliding dovetails -- shouldered and unshouldered. Either can be incorporated into the design of the piece.

Read more about it in Fine Woodworking issue # 213

Design or Plan used: Andrew Hunter

posted in: Reader's Gallery, table, dovetails

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