Replies

1. 
   Bob_Van_Dyke | Apr 15, 2007 05:56am | #1

   Patrick-In answer to your questions
   1. locating the mortice (or slot) about 1/16" below where you would think it should go is about right- you always want the button just a little offset so that when it is screwed tightly to the tabletop it always exerts pressure- even as the wood moves throughout the seasons.
   If you take a look at the picture in the article you refer to (page 56) you will notice that the button is offset or "cocked" instead of being completely snug to the bottom of the tabletop. This ensures that it will stay tight throughout the year.
   2. The tenon (really just a "tongue" in this case)does not have to fit the slot tightly. It is really only the top part of the tongue bearing against the top edge of the slot that is doing anything.
   By making the tongue a little loose in the slot (but tight to the tabletop when screwed in) there is no problem with anything binding.

   Hope that helps
   Bob Van Dyke

1. 
   patrickmonk | Apr 15, 2007 06:49pm | #2

   Bob, many thanks for prompt response. Think I have it, but just to double check. The pressure exerted is in fact created by the top surface of the tongue in contact with the top surface of the mortise ? which would mean taking care to orient the grain to avoid potential splitting not only perpendicular, as Garrett says, but also on the horizontal ?. Clear that lower surface of tongue serves no significant purpose. Hadn't picked up on button being set back from rail, again thanks. Don't anticipate much 'trouble' as material well seasoned and humidity not much of a problem, but just trying to get clear on best practice. I 'asked the expert' and appreciate your expertise, though I am still unclear as to why the 'tight fit' would not cause binding. Is it basically the living nature of the wood, oils as lubricant, expansion being on the horizontal plane......? Just curious. Apologies if I appear a little obtuse. Thanks again.          Patrick Monk. "MONKWORKS"

    patrickmonk.rn.sf.

1. 
   Bob_Van_Dyke | Apr 17, 2007 07:46pm | #3

   Patrick
   Yes- The grain is running lengthwise on the button and will be perpendicular to the rails when installed.
   The "tight fit" does not cause binding because the sliding motion of the button against the slot in the rail is so gradual. We are usually talking about less than 3/8" - 1/14" movement over a whole year.
   Does that clear up your questions?
   Bob Van Dyke