The “mortise” is the recess where the tenon goes. It can be cut by hand with a mallet and mortising chisel, or mechanically ...

The most iconic examples of mortise-and-tenon craftsmanship can be seen in ancient Chinese buildings. "For ancient architecture, if you don't build it right, it won't stand and look good," Liu says.

One common joinery method used in wood working is the mortise and tenon. A mortise is basically a hole in a piece of wood and the tenon is another piece of wood cut to tightly fit in that hole.

Woodworkers have always been very clever about making strong and attractive joints — think of the strength of a mortise and tenon, or the artistry of a well-made dovetail. These joints have been ...