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WOODWORKING

Chapter 19

FASTENERS AND JOINERY

Introduction
There are many different types of fasteners and joinery used for constructing a cabinet-box or carcass. The
method you will use should be determined and noted during the design phase of your project. If you wait to decide
later what method you will use, it will be too late. Begin by considering the required strength and desired beauty of
the project. Before we begin, let’s quickly review the basic fasteners and joints used in woodworking.

Required strength:
The required strength of the cabinet is an important factor to consider. If the piece you are constructing
will need to carry a lot of weight or will be moved often, the use of nails should be avoided, unless
accompanied with glue. All other joints offer strong construction possibilities.

Desired beauty:
Beauty can be enhanced or destroyed by joinery. Choose an appropriate method that fits your desired
outcome. Some of the most beautiful joints commonly used today are 1) the exposed mortise and tendon,
2) the dovetail, 3) the exposed spline, and 4) the exposed dowel joint.

Another option is to use metal fasteners, but keep in mind that metal fasteners mounted from the outside of the
cabinet will be exposed, plugged, or filled with wood filler. Though screws provide for strong joints (except when
used in particle board or plywood), they can be unsightly. If you choose this method, when installing pay careful
attention to the equal positioning, balance, and centering of screw patterns. This will help add intentional beauty and
conformity to your project.

POCKET SCREW

CORNER BLOCK

NAIL

SCREW

1

3

2 3 4

Unit IV: Cabinet Construction