How to Cut a Notched Joint

One of the strongest joints you can use is a notched joint, because it brings together both the strengths of the supporting leg as well as the cross bar. It's more stable than mounting one on top of the other and holds better than mounting to the side does. It's a great joint to use for more durable furniture, toys and even for building sheds or forts.

Things You'll Need

• 2 pieces of wood
• Utility knife
• Jig saw
• Sandpaper
• Wood glue

Instructions

1. Lay both pieces of wood, one on top of the other, at a perpendicular position. Score the lower piece of wood with the knife at the edge of both sides of the upper piece of wood. Flip the pieces over and make sure the scoring marks still line up on the underside, and score the piece of wood on the bottom in the same manner.

2. Mark the side of each piece of wood with the knife to show how far in the notch goes. The strongest joint makes both pieces of wood flush cutting no more than half out of each piece. Hold the wood sideways and saw the notched part out of the wood with the jig saw. Repeat with the other piece.

3. Sand the inside of the notches and test them repeatedly until they fit together at the notched point with the boards lying flush on both sides.

4. Fit the boards together in the notch and glue them with wood glue. Let the glue dry and fit your notched joint together.