Tip #74
How to Make A Tongue and Groove Joint
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Fig. 2 Click on image for larger view.

Operations:
1. Prepare 2 pieces of stock 3/4" by 6" by 24".

2. In one we will make a groove 3/8" by 9/16" and a 3/8" by 1/2" tongue in the other. Let us make the tongue first.

3. Adjust the saw blade height to 3/16".

4. Bring up rip fence to 1/2" from outer saw blade tooth point.

5. Make cut by holding stock flat surface down.

Fig. 3 Click on image for larger view.

6. Turn stock end for end and repeat operation on other side.

Fig. 4 Click on image for larger view.

7. Adjust saw blade height to 1/2"

8. Set rip fence at 9/16" from inner tooth of saw blade.

9. Holding stock on edge and flat side firmly against rip fence, make cut on both sides.

Fig. 5 Click on image for larger view.

10. You should now have a tongue 3/8" by 1/2".

11. To make the groove in the other piece, set the saw blade height at slightly over 9/16". Note: This extra depth will allow space for glue.

12. Bring up rip fence to 9/16" from outer point of saw blade tooth.

13. Make cut.

Fig. 6 Click on image for larger view.

14. Turn stock around end for end and make cut from other side.

15. Stop saw and let it come to a complete stop and move rip fence in or feed quill out the distance of a saw blade kerf.

16. Make repeating cuts turning stock end for end each time.

Fig. 7 Click on image for larger view.

17. Continue until the groove is entirely free of waste stock.

18. You should now have a groove 3/8" by 9/16" and the two pieces should fit snugly together. Note: Several pieces may be fitted together in this manner by making a groove and a tongue on opposite edges of each member.

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