# Dowel joint ## What is a Dowel joint? A dowel joint is commonly used to reinforce butt joints, that is, the joining of the end or edge of a board to the face of another. It is made up of 2 pieces with holes drilled, into which glue and small round wooden pins (known as dowels) are inserted connect them. It is a substitute to using a domino joint (i.e. [floating tenon](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/machine-workshop/making/step-by-step/joining/floating-tenon-joint)) and requires extremely accurate makings to be achievable, unless dowel centres are used. ![Figure 1. Szpuzar Nikodem. Prop chair. 2013.](https://1044287416-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M3JlcKYAsodrf6BU0RY%2F-MA4geuzgHqi-kaVFXE-%2F-MA4iKoguNFD9tG2_5Dv%2Ftumblr_mplitzuXsO1qmkn2no1_1280.png?alt=media\&token=30e698f6-a65c-4858-91e1-1da4feb03fea) ## How do I make it? To make this joint in the easiest way possible, you can use the [pedestal drill](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/machine-workshop/machinery-materials/equipment/untitled/drill-press) available in the **MSD Machine Workshop**. For more information, below is a video demonstrating making a dowel joint. {% embed url="" %}