> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/machine-workshop/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ms-kb.msd.unimelb.edu.au/machine-workshop/making/step-by-step/joining/mortise-+-tenon-joint.md). # Mortise and Tenon joint This article will cover what are mortise and tenon joints, required equipment, and one way of making them. ## What is a Mortise and Tenon joint? A mortise and tenon joint is a very strong joint often used in the construction of chairs and tables. It consists of an elongated hole (mortise) and a plug (tenon) on the end of a piece of wood that is accurately sized to fit in the mortise. This joint has a very high mechanical strength and is often found used in high stress applications where it resists twisting and rocking motions. A blind mortise and tenon is unseen but the more decorative version, a through mortise and tenon, is visible and can be wedged with contrasting timbers as a focal point. ![Figure 1. Mortise + tenon joint with pin, between table rails and aprons/ stretches. Designer: Nikari](https://1044287416-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M3JlcKYAsodrf6BU0RY%2F-M6hWLkt2vjTW0kggF8_%2F-M6h_a6uuIovjvBg7pxA%2Fnikari-stockholm-furniture-fair-2018-designboom-001.jpg?alt=media\&token=a448374f-b699-4701-909b-f5d37d03c04a) ![Figure 2. Mortise + tenon joint with pin. Designer: Nikari](https://1044287416-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M3JlcKYAsodrf6BU0RY%2F-M6hWLkt2vjTW0kggF8_%2F-M6h_fzSFBL9PIkDBC6Y%2Fnikari-stockholm-furniture-fair-2018-designboom-003-667x1000.jpg?alt=media\&token=b834523e-9002-4d6c-a987-5a32ab67bd86) ## What do I need to make it? There are a few machines you can use to make a mortise and tenon and in the link below you'll find a video on how to cut one by hand (he makes it look far easier than it is). We would recommend using a combination of a [router](/machine-workshop/spaces/machine-workshop/equipment/power-tools/router.md), [router table](/machine-workshop/spaces/machine-workshop/equipment/untitled/router-table.md), [drill press](/machine-workshop/spaces/machine-workshop/equipment/untitled/drill-press.md) and [table saw](/machine-workshop/spaces/machine-workshop/equipment/untitled/table-saw.md). ## What steps do I take? {% embed url="" %}