How to Use a Biscuit Jointer

A biscuit jointer is a type of circular saw that cuts a thin, crescent-shaped slot about 4 inches wide and an inch deep or less. It is highly specialized but is extremely useful when you want to join two pieces of wood--especially when you want a joint to be free of visible fasteners. Just make a couple cuts, and fill them with glue and a biscuit. (Biscuits are thin, football-shaped plates made of compressed beech shavings. They're sold at hardware stores and other venues.) It's surprisingly strong and easy if you know how to do it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Biscuit jointer
• Biscuits
• Wood to join (must be of equal thickness)
• Work area with vertical backstop to hold wood perpendicular
• Glue

1. 
    

   Position the pieces of wood so they are perpendicular to each other. Make a reference mark.

2. 
    

   Position your biscuit jointer so it is upright and against one of your pieces of wood. Make a cut with the jointer just over half as deep as the biscuit you are using is wide.

3. 
    

   Position your biscuit jointer against the other piece of wood, lying flat. Make another cut at the same depth as the first.

4. 
    

   Insert a biscuit into one of the slots. Fit the other piece of wood onto the exposed portion of the biscuit. You have created a biscuit joint.

Tips & Warnings

• Glue your pieces together, but don't do it right away. Dry-fit them first to make sure they fit. Biscuits can absorb humidity from the air and swell. Store them in a dry, sealed container. Replace the blade in your jointer if you notice the wood starts to burn or smoke.