This is what I like about the forum. I had a question relating to the April 2000 issue, #141, of Fine WoodWorking article on bread board ends by Charles Durfee entitled “Trestle Table with Breadboard Ends.” and there’s a lively discussion on the subject.
I’ve started another thread to speak to design. In the article, I noticed the tenon was not of consistent length. Only the three sections to receive dowels were long, the remainder was shortened. Is this to provide additional structural integrity to the breadboard end by removing less material?
What impact would I have if the tenon was of consistent length?
I don’t have the article in front of me, so is there a ratio of tenon length and thickness to the overall breadboard width and mortise that one should follow?
Thanks,
Steve
Replies
>>What impact would I have if the tenon was of consistent length?
No impact at all IMO. It's lots easier to just make the tongue the same length for its whole width. Makes ploughing the groove simpler also. I have never seen one break even though the article makes that point.
>> is there a ratio of tenon length and thickness to the overall
breadboard width and mortise that one should follow?
None that is hard and fast. Almost all I have seen and all I have ever done, the thickness of tongue is 1/3 the thickness of the panel. I like to make the groove a "blind" groove strictly for appearence.
Homie,
thanks for the feedback.
Steve
Howie,
Sorry for the typo. Didn't mean to respond as "Homie"
Steve
Hey, write my check that way and I'll sign it that way.
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