Tools for Woodworkers

Joinery setup

Dado, groove, and tenon layout calculator

Turn a joint centerline and desired fit into near-edge, far-edge, and cheek-removal dimensions. The same reference-driven method helps prevent accumulated layout errors.

Bench calculator

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Verify critical dimensions and machine setups independently before cutting project material.

01 / METHOD

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter the workpiece width and the joint centerline from your reference edge.
  2. Enter the dado or groove width and the mating stock thickness.
  3. Use the near and far edges to verify your setup; use cheek removal only for a centered tenon.

02 / APPLICATION

Useful in the workshop

  • Center a shelf dado on a layout line
  • Set router-fence offsets
  • Size a matching centered tenon

03 / MODEL

Assumptions

  • The dado or groove is centered on the entered centerline.
  • The tenon is centered in the mating stock.
  • All dimensions use inches.

04 / CHECKS

Limitations and safety

  • Does not add glue clearance or compensate for cutter runout and material compression.
  • Test the actual cutter and stock with scrap before machining project parts.

Before cutting: independently verify important dimensions, angles, clearances, material behavior, and machine settings. Use safe procedures appropriate to your tools and material.

05 / QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions

What is the near edge?

It is the joint edge closest to the reference edge: centerline minus half the joint width.

What if the tenon is wider than the stock?

The setup is invalid. The joint width must not exceed the mating stock thickness for a centered tenon.