I’ve looked at all the videos I can find in finewoodworking.com to find an answer for how tight a dovetail joint should be. I’ve made some that are obviously too loose and, of course if it spits the wood it’s too tight, but how do you know the “proper fit”? I just made a box using my Leigh jig that wouldn’t even require glue to keep it square. I’m not sure I can even get glue in it…which may be the answer to the question. So, how can you really judge the proper fit?
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Replies
Good question, I'll try to get a response for you shortly. Thanks, Gina
The general rule for joinery is that the joint should go together with firm hand pressure or no more than a light tapping with the side of your fist used as a mallet. Once assembled you should be able to pick up the joint and not have it flexing or falling apart under its own weight. This will also be the sweet spot where there is enough clearance to get a thin film of glue in between the surfaces. A too tight joint can end up glue starved.
A joint will feel right when the fit is good, it comes with experience, but it sounds like you're getting there.
John White
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