Several commonly used wood joints: Mortise and Tenon Structure

Mortise and tenon joinery is a classic woodworking technique for connecting two pieces of wood. It’s a fundamental part of traditional Chinese furniture and architecture. The technique involves a tenon, a protruding piece of wood shaped to fit into a mortise, a cavity or hole carved into a second piece of wood. When fitted together, these two parts create a strong, interlocking joint that can hold for centuries.

Types of Mortise and Tenon Joints
There are many variations of the mortise and tenon joint, each suited for different applications and structural needs. Some of the most common types include:

Through Mortise and Tenon: The tenon passes completely through the mortise and is visible on the other side. This is one of the strongest and simplest forms.

Blind Mortise and Tenon: The tenon does not pass all the way through the mortise, so it’s not visible from the outside. This joint is often used for its clean, seamless appearance.

Haunched Mortise and Tenon: A type of blind mortise and tenon where a small part of the tenon is cut away (the haunch). This helps prevent the corners from cracking and provides a better fit.

Wedged Mortise and Tenon: Small wooden wedges are driven into the end of the tenon after it’s passed through the mortise. The wedges expand the tenon, creating an incredibly tight and secure joint.

Advantages of Mortise and Tenon Joinery
The mortise and tenon joint has remained a cornerstone of woodworking for its many advantages, especially in traditional craftsmanship.

Exceptional Strength: The interlocking design creates a large surface area for glue (if used) and resists pulling and twisting forces very effectively. It is a very robust and stable joint.

No Metal Fasteners: Traditional mortise and tenon joints rely on wood alone, without the need for nails, screws, or other metal fasteners. This makes the furniture or structure less susceptible to rust and is a hallmark of high-quality craftsmanship.

Aesthetic Appeal: When done well, these joints are a testament to the artisan’s skill. The clean lines and seamless connections contribute to a beautiful, timeless aesthetic.

Durability and Longevity: Because the joint is created by two interlocking pieces of wood, it is incredibly durable. Pieces of furniture and buildings made with mortise and tenon joinery can last for hundreds of years.

Allows for Wood Movement: Wood naturally expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. A well-designed mortise and tenon joint can accommodate this movement, preventing the wood from cracking or splitting over time.

Open dovetail