The dovetail is both a decorative mark of fine woodworking and a strong and long-lasting joint. In a through dovetail, both of the pieces go entirely through one another, leaving the joint visible on the outside. Making through dove tails begins with proper pin layout. In this How To, we’re using a couple of tools needed for cutting dovetails, including a marking gauge and a pairing block. You can also use a bevel gauge if you don’t have a pairing block. Watch this Video!
Begin Marking the Pins
With the board secured in a vice, use a ruler and pencil to start marking your pins. In this instance, the first mark is made 1/2 inch from the outside edge on both ends of the board.
Use a Divider to Mark the Remaining Center Lines
Make marks along the board for the center line of each pin, using the previous pin’s center line. The distance between each center line is entirely up to you.
Measure and Mark the Outside Edges of Each Pin
Using each center line, a rule and a pencil, mark the outside edge of each pin. In this case, the outside edges are each 3/16 of an inch from the center line.
Strike the Pin Lines
Using a pairing block (or bevel gauge set to a 1:6) begin striking the angled lines of the pins. If you have a pairing block you can also continue the plumb line down the inside face of the board. If you do not have a pairing block, use a square for the plumb line.
With the pins laid out, it’s time to cut them.