This project is possibly the most basic real application of the dovetail joint, since it consists of a simple box held together with four single dovetails. You should therefore see it as a training exercise to gain confidence and build your skills, rather than expect a perfect result straight away.
To make the tray, you will also learn how to edge-glue a solid board for a base which involves ensuring perfectly flat surfaces. We encourage you to make at least one of these before making a dovetailed box.
For this project, you will need:
Wood:
- Sides x 2: Thickness 1/2″ (13mm) x 2” x 12 ¾” (51mm x 324mm)
- Ends x 2: Thickness ½″ (13mm) x 2” x 5 ¼” (51mm x 133mm)
- Base: Thickness 3/8″ (10mm) x 5 ¾” x 13 ¼” (146mm x 337mm) If you don’t have a board wide enough, glue two pieces together
Glue
Sandpaper (1 x sheet of 120-150 grit & 1 x sheet of 220-250 grit)
Clamps
1-1½” Natural Bristle Brush