Dovetail Bits

 

A Couple More Key Uses

As you can see from the drawing right, dovetail keys add decoration and function to any number of joints. The key is an hourglass-shaped piece of stock, often made from a contrasting species, that creates a mechanical joint between two flat surfaces.

Before cutting the key sockets, mill a long key blank using the same dovetail bit. Then, set up the socket cuts in scrap to ensure a good fit. Slice individual keys from the blank (about 1/32" longer than the socket), assemble the joint, tap the keys into place, then sand them flush with the workpiece.