Dado
A dado is a special cut or groove made in wood that allows pieces to fit together securely, like a puzzle. It's commonly used in furniture making, cabinetry, and other woodworking projects. Think of it as creating a channel in one piece of wood where another piece can sit firmly, making the overall structure stronger. When job descriptions mention dado work, they're referring to the ability to create these specialized grooves using various tools like table saws, routers, or traditional hand tools. This skill is particularly important in custom furniture making and high-end woodworking.
Examples in Resumes
Created custom bookshelves using dado joints for adjustable shelving
Operated table saw to cut precise dado grooves for cabinet construction
Trained junior woodworkers in proper dado cutting techniques and safety procedures
Typical job title: "Woodworkers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Woodworkers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Trade Organizations
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach teaching someone the proper technique for cutting dados?
Expected Answer: A senior woodworker should explain safety procedures first, then discuss measuring and marking techniques, tool selection, and the importance of test cuts. They should also mention common mistakes to avoid and quality control methods.
Q: What factors do you consider when deciding between different dado cutting methods?
Expected Answer: Should discuss project requirements, wood type, available tools, time constraints, and cost considerations. Should demonstrate knowledge of when to use table saw vs router vs hand tools.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety precautions do you take when cutting dados?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper tool guards, push sticks, eye protection, dust collection, and maintaining proper stance and grip. Should also discuss proper tool maintenance and blade selection.
Q: How do you ensure accurate dado measurements and cuts?
Expected Answer: Should explain measuring tools, marking methods, test cuts on scrap wood, and techniques for checking depth and width accuracy.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a dado and what is it used for?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that a dado is a groove cut across the grain of wood, typically used to join pieces in cabinets and shelving. Should understand basic applications.
Q: What tools can be used to cut a dado?
Expected Answer: Should identify basic tools like table saw with dado blade, router with straight bit, or hand tools, showing understanding of common woodworking equipment.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic dado cutting with table saw
- Understanding of safety procedures
- Simple measurement and marking
- Basic tool maintenance
Mid (2-5 years)
- Multiple dado cutting methods
- Complex joint creation
- Efficient production techniques
- Problem-solving skills
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced joinery techniques
- Training and supervision
- Project planning
- Quality control expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of basic safety knowledge
- Unable to demonstrate proper measurement techniques
- No experience with power tools
- Poor understanding of wood properties and grain direction
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