On 24 Sep 2009 00:08:51 -0400, DJ Delorie wrote:


I'm designing a new desk for myself, with modular units for the
"pedestals". Each side of the desk will have one or more of these of
various widths. Each is a separate box (sides, back, bottom) made from
1/2in plywood with hardwood fronts (face frame, drawer front,
whatever, not shown in photo). I'm wondering... what would be the best
joinery to use to assemble the plywood box part - rabbet+glue?
biscuits? lock miter? pocket screws? something else? a combination of
the above?

Photo, details, and sketchup file: http://www.delorie.com/wood/desk/module.html

I'm thinking of doing something like that, as well. My thoughts were
a rabbet joint. I've found rabbet joints to be quite strong as long
as the rabbet is reasonably tight (no glue gaps), though I generally
use 3/4" ply. For a top I was going to either use a solid core door
or for about twice the price Ikea sells Birch, Oak, or Beech butcher
block slabs. I bought a small one over the weekend to replace my
saw's extension table. We'll see how that goes.