Woodworker's Journal fall-2008, страница 18

Arguments for an Old Favorite

Dowels may not be trendy joinery, but their versatility

and strength still make them practical. here's how to build these old standbys.

BY Linda HAUS

These days there almost seems to be a prejudice toward the biscuit joiner or pocket screw jig as the fastest and easiest ways to assemble casework. While both of those two options are handy, I'd still like to make the case that dowel joinery is not only fast and easy, but also eminently practical for the home workshop. With greater sheer strength than biscuits and an ability to join quite narrow pieces of wood, the old standby is my choice more often than not. You don't

have to buy an expensive power tool to install dowels, but you will need a drilling jig to make sure your pilot holes are straight.

Installing dowels isn't rocket science, but there are a few tried-and-true tips that will ensure good success (see facing page). As with any other woodworking operation, take your time and work accurately. Once you master the dowel joint, you may use it more often than you think. @

18 ARGUMENTS FOR AN OLD FAVORITE

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