Woodworking joints can be divided into three main classifications that correspond to their functions. Joints for increasing the width or surface of timber Joints in length for increasing the lengths of timber, Joints in width for increasing the width of timber, Angle joints.

Joints in length

This type of joint is used where the required length of timber is unavailable. The four main types are: Scarf joints, Laminated joints, Heading joint and Handrail bolt.

Joints in width

This type of joint is used to form wider boards for say work/counter tops, cabinet work or shelving or to enable narrow boards to cover larger areas such as flooring or cladding.

Angle joints

This group of joints is a broad one and covers a large variety of joints, such as mitre joint, halving joint, mortice and tenon, dovetailing, housing, bridle, etc.

In part one we shall be looking at angle joints.