This technique was widely used on all heavy duty joinery in the past when
glues were not as reliable and seasonal movement changes would ultimately
result in glue failure. It is still widely used in custom cabinetry which
has through tenons, often with a contrasting color. It also makes it
unnecessary for clamps during gluing, though I use one to pull the joint up
tight while knocking in the wedge.

Bernard R

"Bernie Ross" wrote in message
...
Building a bed for my 6-month-old, who will soon have outgrown his crib.

I'm thinking of trying to use "fox tenon" joints, whereby a couple of
slots
are cut in the tenon, small wedges are placed in the slots, and as the
tenon
is driven into the mortise, the tenon expands, giving a very tight fit
indeed.

As I understand it, if you make the wedges too long, the tenon shoulders
won't reach the piece with the mortise, and you'll never get the thing
out.
You only get one chance to get it right.

I've never done anything like this before. Any tips? I'm intending to
use
beech, if it makes any difference.

- Bernie