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

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 ...

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.