Hi
Chris Gochnour, in his latest interactive classroom installment, demonstrates in detail how to approach dovetails. Among the techniques displayed is the use of scribes and marking knives for establishing precise lines.
One problem I have, particularly with scribing, is that it leaves a visible indention in the wood between dovetails and / or pins. I have noticed in the close-ups of some articles that these scribe marks seem to remain even in the finished piece. Isn’t this really a slight defect? Or is this considered a charming detail? Or am I just being over-picky? Assuming one is not enamored with residual scribe marks – how would you suggest dealing with this? The scribe marks can be fairly deep and planing may remove a significant amount of material.
Would really be interested to hear your response.
Thanks
John
Replies
Since they can't be removed easily they fall into the "charming detail" category.
John White
I agree with John's answer- the other answer is is- don't cut your layout lines so deep so that you can plane them out later.
Bob Van Dyke
Thanks, that's good advice. The problem is - in my understanding - that the layout lines also have the purpose of severing the uppermost layer of fibers. In order to successfully severe, however, you do have to go to a certain depth. Perhaps there is a "perfect" pressure that just severes the fibers without going too deep? Don't you find the lines kind of objectionable? After all the trouble of actually cutting the dovetails it seems like a shame to me to have a layout line marring the surface...Best regards
John
I don't have a problem with leaving them- I know of some people who leave them on purpose to "prove" that they were hand cut!
Bob
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled