Woodworking Joinery Core Series: Dado Joints

Step up your woodworking game with the third installment of our Joinery Series, moving directly into the core structural joints. This session focuses on the essential dado joint, a fundamental technique for creating strong shelving, cabinetry, and interlocking frameworks. You will leave with the practical skills and confidence needed to build sturdy, professional-grade structures.
What to Expect
This is a hands-on workshop where you will practice the layout and execution of dado joinery. We will discuss the mechanics of housing joints and why dados are the superior choice for load-bearing horizontal surfaces like shelving. You will spend the majority of the class at the workbench using machinery to mill the channels accurately, followed by using hand tools to refine the fit. By the end of class, you will have a completed joint sample to take home for future reference.
Skills You’ll Acquire
Dado Joint Geometry: Understanding the layout, marking, and spacing requirements for housing joints.
Load Distribution: Learning how dado joints support weight effectively in cabinetry and shelving units.
Machine Setups: Learning how to set depth of cut and utilize machinery for repeatable accuracy.
Hand Tool Refinement: Using chisels to pare channels for a snug, professional fit.
What’s Provided
All lumber and practice blanks required for the class.
Access to shop machinery and high quality hand tools.
Safety equipment including ear and eye protection.
Who Should Join
This class is designed for makers looking to expand their construction vocabulary and transition into core woodworking techniques. It is the perfect follow-up for those who attended the previous joinery sessions or any woodworker looking to improve their precision with cabinetry and shelving. 18+ Only.
Prerequisites and Safety Information
Please wear closed toe shoes and avoid loose clothing or hanging jewelry. All participants must follow standard shop safety protocols.
What to Bring
All materials are provided. You can bring a notebook if you would like to sketch the joint layouts or machinery.
Instructor: Alexander Platt
Workshop Ticket Fee:
Standard Public Ticket: $63.00
MakeHaven Members: $54.00