Mortise and Tenon
A Mortise and Tenon is one of the most important traditional woodworking joints used in furniture making. Think of it like a puzzle piece connection where one piece (the tenon) fits precisely into a hole (the mortise) in another piece of wood. It's similar to how Lincoln Logs fit together, but much more precise and permanent. Furniture makers value this technique because it creates very strong connections without needing nails or screws, which is especially important in high-end and custom furniture. This method has been used for thousands of years and is still considered one of the best ways to join wood together.
Examples in Resumes
Created custom dining tables using traditional Mortise and Tenon joinery
Trained apprentices in proper Mortise and Tenon techniques for chair construction
Restored antique furniture using traditional Mortise and Tenon joints
Typical job title: "Furniture Makers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Furniture Makers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Trade Shows & Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you determine the appropriate size and placement of mortise and tenon joints for different furniture pieces?
Expected Answer: A senior furniture maker should explain how joint size relates to material thickness, discuss load-bearing considerations, and mention traditional proportions like the 'rule of thirds'. They should also explain how different furniture types need different joint configurations.
Q: How would you approach teaching mortise and tenon techniques to junior craftspeople?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching experience by explaining step-by-step instruction methods, common mistakes to watch for, and how to progress from basic to complex joints. Should mention both hand tool and machine methods.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the different types of mortise and tenon joints you commonly use?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe through tenons, blind tenons, haunched tenons, and wedged tenons, explaining when each type is most appropriate to use.
Q: How do you ensure a mortise and tenon joint fits correctly?
Expected Answer: Should explain the importance of precise measuring, proper tool use, test fitting, and common adjustment techniques. Should mention both hand-cut and machine-cut methods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic tools needed for creating mortise and tenon joints?
Expected Answer: Should list essential tools like chisels, mallets, marking gauges, and possibly mention basic power tools. Should demonstrate understanding of basic safety practices.
Q: Can you explain the basic steps of making a simple mortise and tenon joint?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic process: measuring and marking, cutting the mortise, forming the tenon, and test fitting. Should show understanding of basic safety procedures.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic mortise and tenon layout
- Simple joint cutting by hand and machine
- Understanding of wood properties
- Basic tool maintenance
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex joint variations
- Efficient production methods
- Problem-solving for difficult joints
- Advanced tool usage
Senior (5+ years)
- Master-level joint execution
- Teaching and mentoring ability
- Complex furniture design
- Traditional and modern techniques
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with actual joint making
- Lack of understanding about wood movement
- Poor knowledge of tool safety
- No experience with traditional hand tools
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Digital Apprenticeships: Crafting the Future Workforce Pipeline
Why Machine Hiring?
From Boomers to Zoomers: Unlocking Organizational Wisdom through Cross-Generational Mentoring
