I want to make 1/2 x 1/2 square pegs in walnut for cross-pegging tenons in a cherry mission style bed I’m making. The exposed ends of the pegs should be beveled to yield a pyramidal shape, but with flattened top, not sharp to a point. Any thoughts on how to produce the end detail?
Discussion Forum
Get It All!
UNLIMITED Membership is like taking a master class in woodworking for less than $10 a month.
Start Your Free TrialCategories
Discussion Forum
Digital Plans Library
Member exclusive! – Plans for everyone – from beginners to experts – right at your fingertips.
Highlights
-
Shape Your Skills
when you sign up for our emails
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. -
Shop Talk Live Podcast -
Our favorite articles and videos -
E-Learning Courses from Fine Woodworking
-
-
Replies
Gene,
I use several very sharp chisels. I like a 1/2" and a 1/4". It takes some practice, but once you develop the feel, it's a very nice way to finish pegs proud of the surrounding wood. End grain can be shaved very carefully if your chisel has a very sharp edge. You have to learn to both push the edge through the tissue and "hold back" at the same time. The slicing action has a very satisfying "brrrp" sound and feel.
You can also tap lightly with a mallet.
Finishing pegs like this leaves many little burnished facets which are attractive in the final finish.
Rich
I normally use 5/16" square pegs. I've have had good luck using a box cutting knife with a new single edge razor blade. After carving them I like to lightly burnish them over with 600 grit SP.
This forum post is now archived. Commenting has been disabled