Replies

1. 
   flairwoodworks | Apr 19, 2010 09:40am | #1

   Either

   Michael,

   I have not drawbored such a large tenon, but I think either would be fine.  In your case, because you're concerned with strength, go with the 1/2".  Not too close to the shoulder, though.

2. 
   RalphBarker | Apr 19, 2010 10:52am | #2

   dowel strength and aesthetics

   I assume this is on the bench you're making? If so, I'd agree that 1/2" will probably look better, and would definitely be stronger than 3/8".

   In reality, I think the choice is a balance between the crush strength of the species used for the dowel versus the size and long-grain strength of the species of the tenon, both matched against the level of force that will be exerted against them.

   Don't forget to chisel out a little square at the end of the dowel to inset a square button of ebony that would sit proud of the leg with champhered edges.  ;-)

1. 
   reeltime1 | Apr 19, 2010 11:02am | #3

   Thanks guys, that's what I thought.  Dowel stock will be walnut, the bench is hard maple.

   Ralph, I wish I knew how to make champhered edges.  I have them on my bed, but I'm not sure how it's done.  Probably a plane, then use a rasp to make the curve into it?

   Ordering my ebony now-- 

1. 
   RalphBarker | Apr 19, 2010 11:19am | #4

   chamfers

   (with megaphone from the street, lights blinking) Step away from the rasp.  ;-)

   Chamfers on the buttons (sorry for the previous misspelling) are easily made with a block plane, held at 45°.

1. 
   flairwoodworks | Apr 22, 2010 01:23pm | #6

   Block plane or chisel. Or sandpaper.

   Block plane, chisel, sandpaper, table saw... many options to make a chamfer.  If using either of the first three, work from long grain towards the end grain (as opposed to working cross-grain) to avoid blowout.

3. 
   WillGeorge | Apr 19, 2010 12:49pm | #5

   Not that I drawboard that much.. However my first thought was why not just use two skinnier pins? Yes, the look will be a bit different from standard, but these are modern woodworking days.

   I have used small pins of bamboo.. As in common sticks you eat with if you like oriental food. No long term experience, as in many, many years.. but they seem to hold up well. I have also used 3/8 to 1/4 inch brass rods. Nice touch if you like that sort of thing...