Are hand cut, plywood dove tails feasible?
Assuming you can get "good" plywood, i.e. not the brittle splinter-fest I've seen around, is dovetailing feasible?
I'd like to avoid using glue for the corner joins as I'd like to be able to dismantle it to transport it.
If they are feasible, any recommendations on what specs to look for? My assumptions having had a gander at the interwebs is:
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Use thick plywood so there is enough surface area for the dovetail to hold.
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Use some kind of backing board when cutting to minimise splintering at the edge of the cut (maybe cheaper plywood or MDF?)
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This is an assumption, but a very fine toothed dove tail saw
This is the structure I am building (minis the horizontal supports, I know is won't hold up as is)
It will be used as a computer desk.
Best Answer
Dove tail joints are not a good option for any type of furniture that you would later hope to take back apart. Dove tails are designed to make a strong and attractive joint that is meant to be permanent.
For advice on how to create effective joints that are straight forward to put together and take apart take a study of the techniques used by kit furniture producers.
The types of fastener hardware illustrated can be purchased from a number of on-line wood worker suppliers (leevalley, mcfeelys, woodcraft, rockler). Search for terms including "cam locks", "counter top connector", and "knock-down fasteners".