Wood Joint Calculator
Calculate dimensions for mortise and tenon, dovetail, and dado joints based on board thickness and joint type.
Joint Dimensions
Wood joint dimensions are based on the thickness of the boards being joined.
Mortise & Tenon:
- Tenon thickness: 1/3 of board thickness
- Tenon length: 2/3 to 3/4 of receiving board width
- Mortise depth: tenon length + 1/16" clearance
Dovetail:
- Pin width (narrow end): 1/2 of board thickness
- Tail angle: 1:6 for softwood, 1:8 for hardwood
- Tail spacing: equal to or slightly wider than pins
Dado:
- Width: matches the thickness of the inserted board
- Depth: 1/3 to 1/2 of board thickness (never more than half)
Rabbet:
- Width: 2/3 of board thickness
- Depth: 1/2 to 2/3 of board thickness