How to cut a mortise and tenon by hand
Mortise gauge and mortise chisel are keys to helping make this time-tested joint
Synopsis: To become proficient in cutting a through-mortise and tenon by hand, you need to use a mortise gauge and a mortise chisel. The mortise gauge is similar to a marking gauge, but has two pins—one fixed and one adjustable—and a movable fence that can be locked in place to retain a setting. Mortise chisels are sturdy and can withstand the heavy mallet blows and levering required to remove waste. Chris Gochnour demonstrates how to lay out and cut this fundamental joint using these tools.
This Handwork department builds on the skills from my previous joinery lessons (the half-lap, the bridle joint, and the mitered bridle joint) and adds a mortise gauge and a mortise chisel. I focus on through-mortise and tenons here for two reasons. First, they’re stronger because they offer more long-grain glue surface, and the long grain of the tenon going through the stile helps…
Start your 14-day FREE trial to continue reading this story.
Plus, access more than 1,900 in-depth articles and more when you become a member.
Start Your Free Trial NowAlready a member? Log In
Log in or become a member to post a comment.
Sign up Log in