Joining planks of wood together

Joining planks of wood together is a fundamental skill in woodworking that opens up a wide range of possibilities for creating, repairing and enhancing wooden furniture and structures.

Top tips for joining wood planks

• Ensure the edges of the planks are straight and smooth. Use a jointer or a table saw with a straight edge guide.
• Before applying glue, arrange the planks to check for alignment and fit.
• Use a brush or roller to apply glue evenly along the edge of the plank.
• Ensure the entire joint surface is covered with glue to prevent weak spots.
• Wipe away excess glue that squeezes out from the joint before it hardens.
• Let the glue cure fully according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, usually 24 hours, before removing clamps and further handling.
• Use multiple clamps to apply even pressure along the length of the joint. Alternate clamp positions on top and bottom to avoid bowing.
• Use scrap wood or clamp pads between the clamp jaws and the workpiece to prevent dents and damage.
• For joints that will bear significant weight or stress, consider adding screws or nails in addition to glue.
• Use metal brackets or braces to reinforce joints in structural applications.
• Handling and transporting smaller pieces that are joined onsite can be more practical than managing large, unwieldy boards.
• Create smaller modular components that can be joined together during assembly.
• Practice on scrap pieces of wood before working on your final project.

Woodworking joints

Learning the best method for joining wood planks using the many different joints available, will enhance your woodworking skills and increase your ability to make a variety of different wooden objects.

• Edge glueing is a simple method using wood glue and clamps.
• Dowels or biscuits are ideal for added alignment and strength.
• Pocket hole screws provide quick and strong joinery for many applications.
• Mortise and tenon or tongue and groove joints are traditional methods for strong and durable connections.

For stronger and more durable joints, consider using biscuits, dowels, or mortise and tenon joints. For quick and simple joins, pocket holes or edge glueing may be sufficient.

For more information on the best methods for joining planks of wood together, the experts at Elephant Timber have created a How to Join Timber Guide.

We stock a wide range of unique timber slabs, suitable for creating table and counter tops, furniture, flooring, panelling and much more. Visit our online shop.

Get in touch

We can assist you with every aspect of choosing the right wood for your next project. You can visit us at our warehouse to view our stock in person. Our normal opening hours are Monday-Friday 07:30 – 17:00. Please contact us on 07941 034 822 to make an appointment, as we are not always based in the workshop. Out-of-hours or weekend appointments can be made by arrangement.