A common question among beginning woodworkers is “what are the different types of mortise and tenon joints?” Here, we’ll provide illustrations and explanations of each of the more common mortise and tenon joints, including blind, through, pinned, and wedged mortise and tenon joints.

Blind Mortise and Tenon

A blind mortise and tenon joint is one where none of the tenon is exposed. The tenon is wholly encased in the mortise.

Through Mortise and Tenon

A through mortise and tenon is one where the mortise goes all the way through the wood, allowing the end of the tenon to be exposed. Sometimes the tenon may be cut flush with the side of the wood it is going through, but often it is allowed to stick through with bevel cuts to add a decorative element.

Pinned Mortise and Tenon

Pinned, or pegged, mortise and tenon joints can be either blind or through and are classified by dowels being inserted through holes drilled through the side of the receiving board. A pinned mortise and tenon provides a lot of strength without the need for glue.

Wedged Mortise and Tenon

A wedged mortise and tenon is a great way to secure a joint but still provide a way for the pieces to be easily dismantled. The tenon is allowed to protrude through the receiving piece of wood with a mortise cut in it that is flush with the outside of the receiving piece. This mortise is often angled to match that of the wedge so that as the wedge is hammered into place it pulls the joint tighter.

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