How to Make a Dovetail

The dovetail is one of the three main joints commonly used in woodworking. In this course, you will learn how to make one in its most basic form: the single dovetail. Follow this simple, step by step guide and you will master the joint in little time.

The tools you will need to make this joint are:

• Sliding bevel (or a dovetail template)
• Square
• Knife
• Dovetail Saw
• Pencil
• Chisel 1″ (25mm) or smaller, you might find it easier to pare cut with a ½”(13mm) or a ¾” (19mm)
• Chisel Hammer

Wood stock: Two pieces of wood ¾” x 1 ½” x 5” (≈ 19mm x 37mm x 125mm)

Paul uses pine as it’s a great wood for practicing on but you can use other woods. The dimensions don’t have to be exact, but make sure the pieces are planed and are the same width and thickness.