If I wanted to make a knock-down mortise and tenon (which I do), probably using a carriage bolt, would it work better to run the bolt from the sides, through the cheek, or make a non-thru mortise and run the bolt in that way? I hope my description makes some kind of sense. I think that making the mortise go all the way through would be easier for me, being the big newbie that I am.
I don’t think that wedges would be an option for me. I can’t think of any way I could make either the wedges or the holes for them neatly.
I only have a few hand tools, like a saw and chisels and such. Power tools means hand drill and skil saw for now.
Thanks!
Andrew
Replies
Andrew,
I'm sorry you didnt get a reply to this post earlier. Just saw it while idly surfing. I would go with the second way- make a shallow blind mortise and drill a hole for the carriage bolt through in line with the stretcher. That way, the stretcher is pulled tight when you tighten the nut. Even better would be to try to do the wedge. Its not as difficult as it seems. The fit is not that critical if you make then wedge too long first and trim it after fitting it- that way you get both wedges the same length.
Good luck
Shane
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