Replies

1. 
   john_c2 | Dec 09, 2020 03:57am | #1

   Have you ever cut half blind dovetails for a drawer? The case in this example is the same as a drawer front with half blind pins. Saw the recess at an angle, then chisel out the waste. It takes finagling in the corners where the saw couldn't reach.

1. 
   TonyBGood | Dec 09, 2020 07:57am | #2

   Thanks John. I have never done dovetails. I see what you are saying, I will try it. I need to chisel the corners and also the vertical end of the dovetail. It feels like there must be an easier way. Is it worth drilling out some of the waste with a Forstner bit first, for instance?

1. 
   mikefm101 | Dec 09, 2020 09:12am | #3

   Yes, use the Forstner bit if you can. It will lessen the frustration and risk of error.

   Mike

2. 
   Rob_Sp | Dec 09, 2020 09:22am | #4

   The easiest way is to make a simple jig to guide a router across the carcass side. It is fast and accurate. It will work for both the half blind dovetails front and back and the dado without repositioning if you have two routers you can set up. If not you can cut all dovetails first, change the bit and cut the dados, as realignment is possible. You will need a dovetail bit and a straight bit, both the size of the joints you are cutting.
   The dovetail and dados for the dividers were cut using this method.
   Just for the record, the drawer dovetails and case top and bottom dovetails were cut by hand.

   
1. 
   TonyBGood | Dec 09, 2020 02:18pm | #6

   That's a smart jig, I may use that approach. Only one router, unfortunately, but a minor problem.

3. 
   DRBWWing | Dec 09, 2020 10:37am | #5

   As John said, but, when you mark, I prefer to use a knife rather than pencil.

   Be sure to clamp the sides together so the dado bottoms out before you mark it.

   You can finish up the bottom of the dovetail with a router plane.

   Personally, I've never seen the need for routers, drills, etc. For me they are easier and safer & more rewarding doing these by hand.

   I strongly recommend you practice a few times on scrap.

1. 
   TonyBGood | Dec 09, 2020 02:19pm | #7

   Thanks... I don't own a router plane, I suspect if I did I wouldn't have even asked the question :-)