Welcome to the wonderful world of carpentry! If you're ready to take the plunge into the unique and fascinating world of woodworking, you're in the right place. We'll be exploring the unique jargon used by carpenters and how to understand the lingo. From 'skimboarding' to 'winging it', this guide will help you learn the language of the trade and make sure you're up to date with all the latest lingo.
So, grab your hammer, put on your hard hat, and let's get started!
Dado
A Dado is a term used by carpenter trades people to describe a three-dimensional puzzle that they have to solve on a daily basis. It is a complex combination of cuts, angles and measurements that can turn a simple piece of wood into a work of art. But don't let that fool you, it can be a real head-scratcher for even the most experienced carpenter!
Read more about the term 'Dado' including its origins
Miter
'Miter' is the term used by carpenter trades people to describe the art of cutting two pieces of wood at a precise angle so that when joined together, they form a perfectly straight corner. It's like a puzzle where the pieces have to fit perfectly together, and if the miter isn't done correctly, you'll end up with a lopsided corner!
Read more about the term 'Miter' including its origins
Rabbet
A Rabbet is a type of joint used by carpenter trades people that is so tricky and complex that it often leaves them scratching their heads in confusion. In fact, it is so difficult to master that some carpenters have been known to exclaim 'Rabbet me, I give up!' when they've had enough.
Read more about the term 'Rabbet' including its origins
Dovetail
A dovetail is a type of joint used by carpenters to join two pieces of wood together. It's so named because of its resemblance to the shape of a dove's tail when viewed from the side, and it's often used as a humorous analogy for how two people can fit together perfectly - like two dovetails in a woodworking project.
Read more about the term 'Dovetail' including its origins
Shoulder Plane
A Shoulder Plane is a handy tool used by carpenter trades people to help them create perfect joints. It is often seen as a symbol of pride among carpenters, as it allows them to create smooth, precise edges on their work, making them the envy of their peers - and the bane of their competition!
Read more about the term 'Shoulder Plane' including its origins
Rip Cut
A rip cut is a type of cut that carpenter tradespeople use to make an exact, straight cut along the length of a piece of wood. It's a type of cut that can make even the most experienced carpenter want to 'rip' their hair out!
Read more about the term 'Rip Cut' including its origins
Crosscut
Crosscut is a term used by carpenter trades people to describe a type of sawing technique that involves cutting across the grain of the wood. It can be an amusing experience for carpenters, as they often find themselves having to take a saw and literally cut across the grain of the wood, leaving a rather comical looking cut in the end!
Read more about the term 'Crosscut' including its origins
Tongue and Groove
Tongue and Groove is a term used by carpenter trades people to describe a method of joining two pieces of wood together by using a tongue on one piece that fits into a groove on the other. This method of joining is so strong that the two pieces of wood almost seem to be dancing a tango together!
Read more about the term 'Tongue and Groove' including its origins
Dowel
A dowel is a round wooden rod used by carpentry trades people to hold two pieces of wood together in a strong and secure fashion. It's like a giant toothpick that can be used to construct anything from furniture to birdhouses, and is a staple item in any carpenter's toolbox. The funny thing is, if you try to put a piece of cheese on one, it won't hold it!
Read more about the term 'Dowel' including its origins
Mortise and Tenon
Mortise and Tenon is a term used by carpenter trades people to describe the classic technique of creating a strong joint between two pieces of wood. It's like a marriage made in carpentry heaven, with the mortise being the bride and the tenon being the groom. And just like any marriage, if it's done right, it will last a lifetime!
Read more about the term 'Mortise and Tenon' including its origins
