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properly use butt joints in woodworking

As the name implies, butt joints are simply a meeting of two pieces of wood, butted against each other and fixed into place with glue. This is the most basic method of connecting two pieces of wood, but does not create a strong joint. Use a butt joint for corners on basic frames or boxes, but not in furniture making (except as a temporary measure) or for items that will have heavy use.

1. To ensure strength, make sure the ends of the two boards are cut as square as possible. For best results, use a miter saw.

2. Use strong glue to secure the joint. However, be aware of the problems with glue as the only connector:

• The end grain is the most porous part of the wood, so it soaks up more glue than the side of the grain will. You may find yourself applying more glue than you think is normal.
• Glue doesn’t provide good lateral strength. Consider further strengthening the joint with nails or screws. 

3. Dowel joints have been reinforcing butt joints in furniture for generations. Not only to they add strength, dowels help align joints for gluing.

• Accuracy is key when adding dowel joints. Use a dowelling jig to create precise hole placement.
• Always clamp dowel joints after applying the glue and securing the joint, to make the most of joint strength.