Replies

1. 
   RickL | Dec 23, 2005 11:14pm | #1

    If you mean edge to edge like in panels I wouldn't waste time with biscuits. They don't add strength and clamping with cauls will do a better job of aligning the boards. I can glue up a 4' x 8' board myself in a single glue up with perfect alignment so after I just scrape the glue off and give it  quick finish sand to remove the planer marks.

   When using biscuits for other applications just shoot enough glue in the slot on each edge and you will be fine.

1. 
   highfigh | Jan 01, 2006 09:06pm | #2

   What you said. Edge to edge glue joints will be strong without mechanical fasteners of any kind, end joints need all the help they can get.
   "I cut this piece four times and it's still too short."

2. 
   sapwood | Jan 03, 2006 09:15pm | #3

   If you choose to use them in an edge to edge joint, as many do, you can put them in with no glue at all since the glue sticks the boards so well. When I do this, I find snug fitting biscuits rather than loose ones. I glue the board edges without consciously putting any glue into the slots but I don't try to keep it out of the slots either.

   Adding glue in other applications is another matter.

3. 
   cesky | Jan 04, 2006 12:04am | #4

   I guess everyone has their own methods but after having a few dribbling joints when using buscuits I use the following:

   1. with a nozzled bottle, I run a thin line of glue down the length of the joint, slowing down a little when you come to the biscuit hole to allow just enough to smear the sides. I then use a nail to dabble the glue in each slot to ensure even distribution.

   2. with a suitable stiff bristle brush spread the line of glue evenly along the edge

   3. push the buscuits firmly home. At this stage the excess will ooze out and should be distributed along the edge.

   4. Leaving the first piece in the vise, repeat steps 1-2 on the next piece. You can afford to use a little less glue along the edge on this piece.

   5. Invert the second piece over the first, locating it along the guide lines you have pencilled in the faces. Tap firmly to close the joint, using a block to protect the edge when hammering with a mallet.

   6. Don't attempt to make more than two joints in a table top at a time, before cramping.

   7. When making large table tops eg. over 2 meters, it pays to have a helper spreading the glue while you continue with the next piece.

   Cheers,

    

1. 
   cicero | Jan 10, 2006 09:22pm | #5

   I use the biscuits to align the boards,as it has been said,the glue on the board edge is sufficient.

   I do put glue on biscuits.if one put them in to shallow I have seen them expand and show the biscuit pattern through  the glued boards.