How to Make the Cove-and-Pin Joint
A clever way to re-create a vintage joint
Synopsis: Machined joinery is not a new thing. In fact, there was a dovetailing machine in the late 1800s that made a joint known as the cove-and-pin, or pin-and-scallop, and it was commonly used by furniture makers of the day. That machine is no longer available, but Louis Kern devised a method using a sled and two jigs that allows him to make the joint with common router bits and a brad-point drill bit.
A few years ago I saw an old dresser with a beautiful and unique joint. I was taken with the joint and did some research. Turns out the cove-and-pin joint, also known as the pin-and-scallop joint or the Knapp joint, was commonly used on factory furniture in the late 1800s. In fact, there was a dovetailing machine patented by Charles Knapp and Nathan Clement that was used to make the joint. I’m not sure why, but…
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This is an incredibly beautiful joint, and I admire the heck out of Louis Kern's ability to make the jigs and plan out the whole idea. I wish I had half that imagination and creativity.
And although I read the article over and over, I don't know if I'll ever have the time or patience to build these beautiful joints. I'm proud if I can get dovetail joints to look good consistently! But I know right where to go if I ever decide to make these unique and lovely joints.