Mortise Definition
A mortise is a rectangular slot which accepts a tenon. It is one part of a mortise and tenon joint which is used to join two pieces of material at or near a 90 degree angle. Does this Spark an idea?
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Structure of the Mortise and Tenon Joint
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The mortise is the rectangular slot that receives the tenon, a portion projecting from the end of the material to be joined. A tenon is the inverse of a mortise and, when properly sized, fits tightly.
Types of Mortises
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Among the types of mortises are: stopped (blind) mortises which fully hide the tenon, through mortises which extend through the material and reveal the tenon's end, and the various types of dovetail joints where the back of the mortise is wider than the front and vice versa. Different mortises have different applications in construction and furniture making.
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A Superstrong Joint
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When a properly fitted mortise and tenon are joined, their fit ensures a tight, strong joint. The additional surface area of the mortise and accompanying tenon provides more area for glue, nails or other fasteners; it also ensures the joint remains stable.
Common Uses
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Mortise and tenon joinery is commonly used in furniture making, frame construction and in drawer parts. Many well-made pieces of furniture feature dovetail joints or stopped mortises which have been pegged for added stability.
Mortise as a Verb
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To mortise is the act of cutting a mortise into material to be joined.
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