One of the reasons I enjoy woodworking is because there are so many different ways to complete the same task. In most cases there is no “right” or “wrong” way but instead a method that is most suited to your style and comfort of woodworking. Some base their woodworking decisions on the tools that they own or the knowledge they have acquired. I like trying different methods to continually expand my knowledge and skill level. A good example is a mortise and tenon joint. Let’s look at some of the different way of making just the mortise. I know a lot of woodworkers that prefer the old method of using a mortising chisel and mallet. With a drill press you can easily and accurately drill a series of overlapping holes that need minor clean up with a chisel. A hand-held router can be used to produce this joint as well as a table mounted router. There are dedicated mortising machines that function like a horizontal router table that do a great job making this joint. There are new hand-held machines that make a mortise joint designed for a loose tenon. All of these (and other methods) will serve the needs of the woodworker with the proper knowledge and skill. I prefer the dedicated mortising machine because it is quick, easy and accurate. The finished results are hidden and no one can tell what method was used by the artist to complete the project. So why is it important which method is used? It matters to the craftsman! Many artists take great pride in the particular method they used and market their goods that way. Others look at this as a business decision – the fastest method that will perform adequately. So instead of debating which method is “best” look at the completed project and marvel at the skill and knowledge of the woodworker in making the finished piece.
Which method do you use for making a mortise?
Enjoy your shop time,
Jerill