SWMBO and I were in an antique store a week or so ago. One thing I always do when I’m looking at “antiques” is pull the drawer open and see what kind of joinery they use. It amazes me to see how many of them have lock joints instead of dove tails.
But I saw one – and I’m pretty sure I’ve seen this technique before – where the edge of the drawer face seems to be drilled using a forstener or spade bit to create a “scalloped” rabbet. Then the end of the drawer side is cut to match this profile. A small hole is drilled in the center of each “finger” and the edge of the drawer face and what appears to be a wooden peg or dowel is driven in.
To me this sure does seem like a lot of work to make an inferior joint.
ChuckN and I have nothing of value to add to this discussion.
Replies
Chuck , The joint you describe is called " pin and scallop " and was machine made not unlike machine made dovetails . The pins or dowels are part of the drawer front typically .
dusty
I have a chest of drawers that was in my family with pin and scalloped joints. You look around and you'll find it was a pretty common joint.
I have a walnut, granite topped, dresser with with the same scalloped joint. Anybody have an idea of it's manufacture date ? A hand carving in the back says 1851 but that seems a little early to me.
OK, The wonders of Google, on first hit, I found the joint. It's called a (Knapp joint) Patd. in 1867. Used in production between 1871-1900.
Work Safe, Count to 10 when your done for the day !!
Bruce S.
Edited 7/15/2007 11:56 am ET by BruceS
Chuck-
I've always called that joint a 'crescent and pin'. I think its origin is French, although I'm not for sure. I'm relying on a failing memory. Hopefully someone can fill in some blanks.
Regards,
Sean
There is an article in Woodwork magazine by Bob Flexner this month on repairing old drawers. He dates a chest of drawers by identifying the type of joint used in them. I believe the drawer joint used is the same as you described, and it is dated as late 19th-century. I don't have the magazine and don't subscribe so can't remember for certain.
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