Great tutorial, it reminded of my grandfather teaching me to make dovetails. He always said "meet in the middle when you chisel". He apprenticed as a yacht joiner in a Glasgow shipyard in the early 1900's and could make anything out of wood; he never owned a power tool in his life. I still use a couple of his bench planes that were made in 1913.
I'm intrigued. I want to construct an open box-shape, to be secured to the foredeck of my sailboat, to hold anchor chain/warp ready for use. The size will be about 6" high by 22 " by 12", and in 1" teak. I want to make the short sides sloping by about 10-15 degrees. Drawing the cuts is what I struggle to visualise....
Just bought and tested my first set of planes... I am a millwright by trade and studied how those planes are built. Those old planes are gold. Machined mating surfaces on the frog makes use of them like night a day. Keep them maintained and I assure you those can he passed on to your grandchildren.
Instead of using a marking gauge to set the offset from my dovetail saw I use a feeler gauge .024. Very similar to the offset gauge that Rob sells. I've watched the video at least 5 times and learn something new every time. Thanks
As an amateur with woodworker, i typically feel overpowered with the entire arrangement ruclips.net/user/postUgkxrYREG3-7f1Aqk9ams3ZESRNzGnfdUtyQ . Be that as it may, this arrangements drove me through with much clarity and effortlessness woodplans. Works i now work like a genius. That is great!
Astoundingly good instructional video. Im absolutely a rookie at hand woodwork and Rob’s video taught me how to make my first dovetails. I didn’t believe I could learn to cut accurate tails with just a video but his instruction is incredible and things worked out just like he promised. Thank you Rob!!!
Excellent! Your instruction and camera work is as good as being in an actual classroom setting. Could not get any better than this! Bravo! Please keep your videos coming. You are an artist and an excellent teacher! Thank you for teaching me how to do Dovetail joints. Hopefully I can make them as nice as yours.
I did my woodworking apprenticeship 40 years ago but still like to watch other woodworkers and can always learn something. Excellent work. Great video.
ROB watching your videos I now can cut compound dovetails and half blinds angled sided boxs . My boxs look like a peace of furniture and just watching you has made me a better wood worker . Thanks keep up the great work 💯
I’m 26 and started building custom furniture 6 years ago and started high end custom cabinets 3 years ago. I pitched the idea of hand cut dovetails to a premium client and they like it! So I plan to purchase all the tools I need and am diving right in with the help of your teaching! I am also going to build the mdf workbench you have designed.
Although I was fortunate enough to learn Rob’s method first hand in one of his (training the hand) workshops, and I have since cut many hundreds (thousands?) of dovetails, I still love watching him teach it. I never vary from this method and it ALWAYS works.
RobCosman.com I’m very sad about that. I so wanted this to be the first of many return visits to help in your work supporting vets and teaching what we all love. I know it saddens you too - though you are doing our community SO MUCH good with your significant uptick in RUclips videos. Thanks Rob for all you do.
The Kaveman with a little practice, you can get quite fast at it. I’m not Rob-fast, but I can do all the hand-dovetail work on a 10-dovetail drawer in under 30 minutes.
last night i was telling a friend about how excited i was about finally ordering one of rob's dovetail saws. i talked about how rob has innovated new techniques in hand too joinery and how rob creates and sells hand tools of amazing quality with features that set them apart from anything else available. i talked about the reasons rob says he started teaching. i told him about PHP, about how and why it began (according to rob) and how important and even inspiring it is to me personally. as soon as i finally shut up he asked how to build a workbench in his garage, what videos to watch and what tools he needed to start with. i cant wait to help him get started...but really i cant wait for my new saw!!
When you buy a Saw from Rob - you get WAY more than a tremendous saw. Comment back six months after you’ve been using it and tell everyone how that decision changed your woodworking world.
Rob, I really appreciate your videos and especially your online workshop. We’ve spoken a little before when I purchased one of your dovetail saws and live RUclips text. I lost my right hand to an IED while in the US Army. I struggle quite a bit to get accurate, square cuts and hammering a chisel is difficult. But these videos help and I think I just need more practice and a suitable vise to hold the workpiece. I plan to apply for one of your PHP classes in a year or so. Thank you very much!
Freely available content he used to charge for (and I gladly paid). Good man putting out hour long videos like this for free. Liked the 1/128” “error” demonstration. And then the next cut was out more! Doesn’t matter when it fits like that.
Wauw, Thank you so much for this tutorial! I started woodworking a few weeks ago and this is the best explanation on dove tails I found so far. I can't wait to try it.
Impressive work. My grand-grandfater was a piano maker who also made a lot of windows with the same accuracy and precision - now I get some hints how that was possible. Thank you!
Rob, I enjoy all of your videos but must admit, your selfless approach in making this long, comprehensive, and entertaining workshop is admirable. Heartfelt thanks for your sharing your experience with woodworkers like me. Johnny
Superb instruction that actually addresses the concerns of real woodworkers. Things like how to site, how to stand, where to hold the saw. Invaluable. Great work!!!!
I love the under cabinet drawers behind you, because when you see they are all dovetailed nicely, it signals that you are standing in the workshop of a true craftsman. Nicely presented in a format that is easily grasped by the newbies, and your teaching skills means that the more experienced crafts person does not lose interest. It would be difficult to imagine anyone eclipsing your careful, stepped instructional skills in teaching your methods to woodworkers who may not be familiar with the mechanics of crafting dovetail joints. Well done sir, I tip my Chapeau to you, for creating an instructional video that grips your curiosity and holds your interest throughout the span of the video. You are in the realm of the Japanese craftsman, where the craftsman becomes the artist though his careful application of his crafting skills. I subscribed asap after watching you practice your art-form. You take woodworking to the next level, teaching others how to hone their skills, eclipsing the skills they had yesterday which is what I believe all artisans aspire to.
I don’t think anyone could make a better tutorial for cutting dovetail joints. If you made a video about surgery, my back pain would most likely be gone the next day.
Great teaching, great video. I’ve learnt tons watching your channel, thank you from a UK veteran of 37 years service, keep up the good work it’s appreciated!
That's one of the best teaching videos I've seen for dovetails. In fact after seeing this I'm going to cut my joints by hand instead of trying my Leigh jig. Thanks
Hey Rob, can't quite believe I took my first course from you 16 years ago! Clearly, I'm the exception that proves the rule: dovetails still suck and I still love woodwork. Luckily, the ukuleles I'm building don't require dovetails. ;-) I enjoyed watching you go through the dovetail process again. Keep up the good work.
Thanks rob for the great video. my dad who passed away several years ago always did woodworking when I was growing up. I inherited most of his tools. And I already do blacksmithing. My Girlfriends Oldest son is going to college this year. I made him a bracelet at my forge. I wanted to make him a small box using my dad's tools to give him as a congratulatory/good luck gift.
I have learned so much from your site. Even in a very short time I have learned so much. I did learn the HARD way about buying tools. A tool U save money on is a tool U will have to buy AGAIN! Being retired police I have to watch how I spend my money. So, I will wait if I need to buy a GOOD tool. That wait SAVES me money. Please even redo some old films for us that are just starting out again. Thanks so much Rob!
Going to use mine (eventually!) to store dovetail-only cutting tools!!! Thanks again for your tireless devotion to spreading the word through highly effective teaching and a terrific learning environment.
I love how much attention you give to every little detail. Instead of just saying: "Do this!", you explain why you do each step the way you do, and you point out problems that can arise which us noobs probably wouldn't think of. Things like the benefit of using 2 dividers, clamping your work closer to the vice jaws to mitigate vibration, and moving your plane a bit further back when you are using it to support the tail board for marking pins. You are a truly fantastic teacher, thanks so much for all that you do!
You can afford it, he also has a video where he uses a hacksaw, screwdriver, business card and a pencil to make just as good dovetails. Get cracking Fred 👍👍
after watching your videos for more than a year now, I built up the courage to try making my own dovetail box. It was just a small box, nothing fancy. The first corner took me about a couple of hours, but by the end I was developing a rhythm. I probably made things a bit harder for myself by resawing some hardwood boards for the material.. Anyways, I think it turned out pretty good for my first time. Having sharp tools, and the right tools, makes a huge difference. Thanks for the great videos.
Just stumbled across your channel, Rob. First, let me say that you are an awesome woodworker. However, IMHO it's your teaching style and easy delivery that really allow you to shine amid the vast ocean of "similar" channels. Simply superb, my man. I'm hooked.
Thank You for an excellent video....Reminds me of my days in school as a fifteen years old keep woodworking student, my teacher then was Mr. Rhule who like you took his time to explain. I was curious to watch your video after being guided here by a friend.
Thanks for the great video. I purchased your dovetail saw recently and have been practicing. Question - my biggest problem is getting my cuts on the tails at 90 degrees - even when I concentrate on it I keep getting about 92- 95 degrees. Is there a trick or technique that will help me?
Thank you for that exceptional tutorial! I very much appreciate how thorough your teaching techniques are! I am new to wood working and most definitely will be watching more of your videos. Thank you again!
I’ve been making a jewellery box for the mrs for our 5 year anniversary (year of wood) out of walnut and maple. For my first dovetail joint ever, gotta say I’m quite impressed. This process really helped. I even borrowed the tape on the coping saw handle trick 😁
I love it! Thank you! I just made my first drawer with dovetails last weekend. I have two more to go for this project. I takes forever to mart it all perfect and then cut it perfect. I tried using a coping saw but the blade is fatter than me saw so I got frustrated with that had chiseled all the waste out. But I have learned to get the chisels sharp so it is not too bad. I should probably look into getting a fret save like you use. The next purchase that I am saving up for is I want to get a fantastic plane. Anyway, thanks for both the education and the inspiration!!
An intimate look into the classic woodworker's joint. What a wonderful lesson. After a 40 year career as an architect my aspiration has always been to have a wood working shop. Mastering this joint is at the top of the list (one of many lessons still to learn). At least now my planes and chisels are finally sharp and polished...via your excellent videos on sharpening. My focus is on musical instruments-when not building "honey-do" cabinets and furniture. Your lessons have brought my work up to a whole new level. Thanks so much for lighting the way to fulfilling my dream.
This has been really useful for me as I’m making a beehive for my friends 50th birthday gift. It’s been about 35 years since my last attempt at a dovetail joint so I have much more confidence after watching - many thanks!
Thanks for this video Rob. This method has made a huge difference to the way my dovetails come out. You often say about taking things up to the next level and after my first attempt I felt that I was heading in that direction. Nearly every step of this method is different to how I was taught before. When the first joint went together with no gaps and after no "fine tuning and cursing", i couldn't believe it. Thank you for taking the time to research and develop a better way of woodworking and for passing your knowledge on.
I’ve been doing hand cut dove tails this way, working really well for my hand made furniture and boxes, wish I could upload a pic and show you, thanks for the tips 😊
i clicked your tool links and "saw" the prices on the tools your using and I hit subscribe because either your the real deal or your the greatest imposter on here. either way I need to learn more, $250 for 1 hand saw is absolutely insane!!!
I was drowning in woodworking videos as a beginner who doesn't know much. Your name kept coming up so I watched this video and am very impressed with your talent and demeanor. Of course, my video game brain keeps silently saying your name as Robco's Man but that's just a bonus when I can already tell your content is going to be a treasure trove of information and experience on tap. Right now my shop is a compound sliding miter saw in my living room. It keeps raining so I can't drag it outside. My first project is making a saw table and I just learned about halflap joints a few days ago. Like I said I know very little. I don't know when I'll have more tools but I can't wait to get into starting dovetails. It's going to be a while though. All I have is a one inch chisel, a cordless power drill, a few screw drivers, a pair of pliers and a box of screws. Oh yeah and a mountain of saw dust in the living room. What a great craft though. Learning new skills on my first project. Of course building it from big box construction lumber. Definitely going to need a lot more hand tools before I start a furniture project and a better source of lumber. But that's all pipedreams because money is impossible. Still though, I've had this saw for over a year and finally plugged it in less that two weeks ago. Finally getting started building a bench for it is exciting even if I don't even have enough money to complete the project. I should have a good 2/3 of it done in a few days or a week then I can deep clean my living room. Lol. Thanks for sharing your expertise, Mr. Rob Cosman.
I've been working over the last several months to set up a shop space in my garage while gathering basic tools. Once I can focus on crafting, I plan to use your tutorial content to begin actually practicing this technique and your other techniques. So stoked that you provide these tutorials! Thanks Rob and crew!
Same here, I built a foldable woodworking bench by taking Paul sellers bench idea and modifying so it it can be tucked away to park 2 cars. Haven basic tools and made a few using Paul's videos and I am in my garage all the time now learning from Rob and Paul the very new hobby I am in love with. Keep it up and all the best!
Thank you very much for a nice instructional video. I have tried tenon joints but dovetail takes me altogether to a new level. Using the square to position everything guarantees absolute accuracy that I thought only practice could bring. It's certainly opened a new dimension for me. Thanks again.
Just wanted to thank you and your team for providing (as usual) another incredibly valuable source of woodworking information. The techniques you describe are always demonstrated in clear and easy to follow logical steps. Attention to detail and working accurately is at the heart of your teaching methods - it is appreciated. Moreover, the passion you have for the craft and it’s promotion is inspirational. Once again, thank you!!!
Beautifully explained and demonstrated 👍 Excellent workshop and application. Being as I've lost almost all of my finishing tools and having the status of "homeless veteran" I may never again have the opportunity to enjoy my love of woodworking, but at least I can enjoy watching, for what it's worth. Cheers 🪚🍻
What a fantastic video. I trained as a Mechanical Fitter and metal machinist, spent 7 years in college but never came across an instructor as good as this with clear, concise instructions. If only this guy was our wood work teacher in school i would have chosen the woodworking trade. Brilliant.
Dangit Rob... I just bought two hand planes from you, among other things, and now you've got me wanting to buy the saw and marking gauges and everything else ...Could ya stop being such a great teacher!? You're costing me a small fortune! Seriously though - you get what you pay for, and I'm happy to support you for the work you put into everything. You've made me a believer.
The new intro and outro is great, I'm making a display case for a statute, and a houndstooth wood hinge box where the tail ends contrasting the pins are spaced to resemble piano keys... Nathan Mitchell, New Brunswick. I'll bring it by after, it'll probably be a while because I have a bunch of things on the go.
I now mark my waste every time as last week I was making a large box commission spent 3 days dimensioning the timber then cut off a tail as I didn't mark it and wasn't paying attention. Luckily I followed advice in one of your previous videos and I'd dimensioned an extra side for just such an occasion
This was fantastic! I watched it twice then stop&start as I made my own joint. It was amazingly good. You are a wonderful teacher. I bought a fret saw just for this project, but broke blade after blade. I have never used a fret saw before, but I’m guessing my tension was alle wrong. I ended up hewing the wast out with the coping saw. My biggest errors are in flattening the bottom surfaces of the cuts. I’m presuming practice will improve it over repetition. And my chisels aren’t sharp enough. (Watched your sharpening video immediately after). Thanks again!
Thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to provide us with these wonderful tutorials! You are an inspiration and I hope one day to attend one of your workshops!
I want to step up my woodworking to use more dovetails for cabinets and drawers to store the things I enjoy keeping around. I hop to learn all I need from this video - thanks for sharing it!
Awesome video, as always! The joy of seeing the joint come together without a test-fit motivates me to strive for the same level of accuracy in every step. And Jake: Excellent camera work! This gotta be your best one yet!
Bob sincere thanks for posting such an informative and structured video. As a late comer to furniture making I admire your patience and craftmanship. Time now to apply it all!
Just curious, how long in the trade till you thought you were a great at what you do and 2nd how long would you say before you could call your self a teacher of the trade as I find you extraordinary at what you do.
Sorry I cannot call me great...my mentors were great, but not me. I was pretty good after growing up woodworking, 5 years at BYU under th ementorship of Dale Nish, then one year intensive work assiting woodworking masters at the Aspen institute. Then I was ready to start on my own and was confident of my skills. I didnt start teaching until I saw a need, but I think for whatever reason I just naturally took to teaching.
Love the teaching, thanks! Just a fun idea, can you make a dovetail joint that every slope is different? Just to prove that the slope doesn’t matter (as long as it’s square).
I am very new to fine woodworking. Took it up as a hobby 2 years ago. I have been wanting to learn dovetails for awhile now. I am going to use your technique along with your wooden hinge to make my son a keepsake box for a high school graduation project.
A couple months ago I began to acquire Rob's tools. I had purchased other saws and chisels several years ago. They weren't "cheap" and were doing a good job; I thought. Man, what a difference these tool make. In a very short time my joinery went from good(in my head), to really nice and in a fraction of time spent on each joint. They still aren't perfect, but the frustration levels decreased substantially, and the accuracy and enjoyment rose in direct proportion. Adopting the method and tools, while a considerable investment, have been the best hand tool purchases and time allotment decisions I've made in a while. Thanks to Rob, Jake, Luther and all the other's I've missed. Keep it up! Hey, Rob..two words..panel saw.. LOL
I did a two week class with Rob five years ago now. He changed my woodworking experience. And now he is sharing so much via RUclips. Hardly a day goes by without my watching some part of a RUclips. And I am always learning. This one is packed full! And I learned more. Thanks Rob!!!
Your instructions are very thorough and clear. While watching you line up the saw to cut with your finger and thumb I thought a small block with the angle and squared would serve the same purpose until better skill was developed.
following this outstanding instruction, last night i was able to cut my very first through dovetail in 1"net walnut with only one slightly open joint....tonite going for perfect....thanks Rob!
You may be shocked if you order tools or products from Rob - the quality, care and level of skill behind each selection is amazing. Saves times and money to know what's a proven product and why it's worth the purchase over other choices. I was blown away by the personal attention given to my first order. I really appreciate Rob and his five-star crew!
I'm a keen amateur DIY'er and love to use power tools, the last time I attempted a dove tail I was at school, over 40 years ago, I've wanted to make my girlfriend some pretty boxes with dovetail joints but not had the proper knowledge or confidence, now I have both, I just need to buy some of the tools you have used and I'm off and running. Thankyou so much for a great tutorial, I'm now a subscriber. Martin in the UK 🇬🇧
I followed your sharpening technique, and very first time planned the board like a pro. Thank you Sir. Now with less effort I made perfect joint. Thank you again
If i have a long joint, its going to be sitting for more than a couple of minutes.. I just had to subscribe after seeing the level of perfection and looking forward to watching more of your vids, thank you.
Rob, I love your RUclips videos. Great job showing the right way to do hand work. You are such a master at dealing with accuracy. One tool I notice is not in your arsenal is a digital calipers and wondered why.
![MISSING: SLIM SHADY [Expanded Mourner’s Edition Trailer]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/xh8qgHrOO1g/mqdefault.jpg)
Great tutorial, it reminded of my grandfather teaching me to make dovetails. He always said "meet in the middle when you chisel". He apprenticed as a yacht joiner in a Glasgow shipyard in the early 1900's and could make anything out of wood; he never owned a power tool in his life. I still use a couple of his bench planes that were made in 1913.
I'm intrigued. I want to construct an open box-shape, to be secured to the foredeck of my sailboat, to hold anchor chain/warp ready for use. The size will be about 6" high by 22 " by 12", and in 1" teak. I want to make the short sides sloping by about 10-15 degrees. Drawing the cuts is what I struggle to visualise....
Thanks for sharing, I love stories like that. 👍
We’re losing so much that earlier generations knew.
Just bought and tested my first set of planes... I am a millwright by trade and studied how those planes are built. Those old planes are gold. Machined mating surfaces on the frog makes use of them like night a day. Keep them maintained and I assure you those can he passed on to your grandchildren.
P❤😊
😂s
Instead of using a marking gauge to set the offset from my dovetail saw I use a feeler gauge .024. Very similar to the offset gauge that Rob sells. I've watched the video at least 5 times and learn something new every time. Thanks
This really is an exceptional video from a 'REAL' master of his craft. Too bad all of RUclips isn't of this caliber.
As an amateur with woodworker, i typically feel overpowered with the entire arrangement ruclips.net/user/postUgkxrYREG3-7f1Aqk9ams3ZESRNzGnfdUtyQ . Be that as it may, this arrangements drove me through with much clarity and effortlessness woodplans. Works i now work like a genius. That is great!
I'm making a box and engagement ring for to make mine woman happy.
Thanks so much for making your knowledge freely available!!
great tutourial. I have made woodworking my hobie and at 66 yrs young I'm still on the lookout for best methods! This old Dog learned a new trick!
Astoundingly good instructional video. Im absolutely a rookie at hand woodwork and Rob’s video taught me how to make my first dovetails. I didn’t believe I could learn to cut accurate tails with just a video but his instruction is incredible and things worked out just like he promised.
Thank you Rob!!!
Watching Rob Cosman work is as mesmerizing as watching Japanese master woodworkers perform joinery. An amazing level of commitment to perfection!
Excellent! Your instruction and camera work is as good as being in an actual classroom setting. Could not get any better than this! Bravo! Please keep your videos coming. You are an artist and an excellent teacher! Thank you for teaching me how to do Dovetail joints. Hopefully I can make them as nice as yours.
it's so nice to watch a master Carpenter and explain things how it works and how they make it so easy thank you for a very good video
You are very welcome
I did my woodworking apprenticeship 40 years ago but still like to watch other woodworkers and can always learn something. Excellent work. Great video.
Only a fool would think that you don't need to learn for your whole life.
ROB watching your videos I now can cut compound dovetails and half blinds angled sided boxs . My boxs look like a peace of furniture and just watching you has made me a better wood worker . Thanks keep up the great work 💯
Wow that's great. So glad I could help
I’m 26 and started building custom furniture 6 years ago and started high end custom cabinets 3 years ago. I pitched the idea of hand cut dovetails to a premium client and they like it! So I plan to purchase all the tools I need and am diving right in with the help of your teaching! I am also going to build the mdf workbench you have designed.
Although I was fortunate enough to learn Rob’s method first hand in one of his (training the hand) workshops, and I have since cut many hundreds (thousands?) of dovetails, I still love watching him teach it. I never vary from this method and it ALWAYS works.
Thanks for watching Tom. Its not looking good for this years TTH workshops
RobCosman.com I’m very sad about that. I so wanted this to be the first of many return visits to help in your work supporting vets and teaching what we all love. I know it saddens you too - though you are doing our community SO MUCH good with your significant uptick in RUclips videos. Thanks Rob for all you do.
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How long does it take to do this demonstrated 3 finger joint at a rough approximation ? I can't imagine building a 20 drawer work bench or wardrobe !
The Kaveman with a little practice, you can get quite fast at it. I’m not Rob-fast, but I can do all the hand-dovetail work on a 10-dovetail drawer in under 30 minutes.
last night i was telling a friend about how excited i was about finally ordering one of rob's dovetail saws. i talked about how rob has innovated new techniques in hand too joinery and how rob creates and sells hand tools of amazing quality with features that set them apart from anything else available. i talked about the reasons rob says he started teaching. i told him about PHP, about how and why it began (according to rob) and how important and even inspiring it is to me personally. as soon as i finally shut up he asked how to build a workbench in his garage, what videos to watch and what tools he needed to start with. i cant wait to help him get started...but really i cant wait for my new saw!!
You area missionary! good deal..now make sure you help your friend get up to speed. Have you ordered the saw yet?
When you buy a Saw from Rob - you get WAY more than a tremendous saw. Comment back six months after you’ve been using it and tell everyone how that decision changed your woodworking world.
Rob, I really appreciate your videos and especially your online workshop. We’ve spoken a little before when I purchased one of your dovetail saws and live RUclips text. I lost my right hand to an IED while in the US Army. I struggle quite a bit to get accurate, square cuts and hammering a chisel is difficult. But these videos help and I think I just need more practice and a suitable vise to hold the workpiece. I plan to apply for one of your PHP classes in a year or so. Thank you very much!
Freely available content he used to charge for (and I gladly paid). Good man putting out hour long videos like this for free. Liked the 1/128” “error” demonstration. And then the next cut was out more! Doesn’t matter when it fits like that.
As long as you meet the 1/8 over 6 inch test it will fit
Wauw, Thank you so much for this tutorial! I started woodworking a few weeks ago and this is the best explanation on dove tails I found so far. I can't wait to try it.
Impressive work. My grand-grandfater was a piano maker who also made a lot of windows with the same accuracy and precision - now I get some hints how that was possible. Thank you!
Best Dovetailing system!!!! I learned this system and its the easiest way to learn, by the BEST teacher I have ever met! Thank you Rob & Jake!!!!
This should definitely be required viewing for all woodworkers. Thank you so much
Rob, I enjoy all of your videos but must admit, your selfless approach in making this long, comprehensive, and entertaining workshop is admirable. Heartfelt thanks for your sharing your experience with woodworkers like me. Johnny
Superb instruction that actually addresses the concerns of real woodworkers. Things like how to site, how to stand, where to hold the saw. Invaluable. Great work!!!!
I love the under cabinet drawers behind you, because when you see they are all dovetailed nicely, it signals that you are standing in the workshop of a true craftsman. Nicely presented in a format that is easily grasped by the newbies, and your teaching skills means that the more experienced crafts person does not lose interest. It would be difficult to imagine anyone eclipsing your careful, stepped instructional skills in teaching your methods to woodworkers who may not be familiar with the mechanics of crafting dovetail joints.
Well done sir, I tip my Chapeau to you, for creating an instructional video that grips your curiosity and holds your interest throughout the span of the video. You are in the realm of the Japanese craftsman, where the craftsman becomes the artist though his careful application of his crafting skills. I subscribed asap after watching you practice your art-form.
You take woodworking to the next level, teaching others how to hone their skills, eclipsing the skills they had yesterday which is what I believe all artisans aspire to.
I don’t think anyone could make a better tutorial for cutting dovetail joints.
If you made a video about surgery, my back pain would most likely be gone the next day.
Great teaching, great video. I’ve learnt tons watching your channel, thank you from a UK veteran of 37 years service, keep up the good work it’s appreciated!
Thank you for your service. Keep watching and I will keep making videos
That's one of the best teaching videos I've seen for dovetails. In fact after seeing this I'm going to cut my joints by hand instead of trying my Leigh jig. Thanks
Hey Rob, can't quite believe I took my first course from you 16 years ago! Clearly, I'm the exception that proves the rule: dovetails still suck and I still love woodwork. Luckily, the ukuleles I'm building don't require dovetails. ;-) I enjoyed watching you go through the dovetail process again. Keep up the good work.
where and when did you take my class?
@@RobCosmanWoodworking 2004 Calgary Training the Hand at the old SAIT campus was the first.
Probably the best teacher on dovetail technique I have ecer seen . Ive n NJ EVER seen by anybody be ta ki e the saw kerf into account as he does .
Thanks rob for the great video. my dad who passed away several years ago always did woodworking when I was growing up. I inherited most of his tools. And I already do blacksmithing. My Girlfriends Oldest son is going to college this year. I made him a bracelet at my forge. I wanted to make him a small box using my dad's tools to give him as a congratulatory/good luck gift.
This is top class instruction, the details of tool handling are very finely explained bravo!
Thank you very much!
Good work of the teacher and the cameraman, thank you for presenting such an excellent hour of education.
Top comment. Looked down, read this and saw "hour" and im out
I have learned so much from your site. Even in a very short time I have learned so much. I did learn the HARD way about buying tools. A tool U save money on is a tool U will have to buy AGAIN! Being retired police I have to watch how I spend my money. So, I will wait if I need to buy a GOOD tool. That wait SAVES me money. Please even redo some old films for us that are just starting out again. Thanks so much Rob!
You are an amazing teacher, Rob! Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and experience!
Happy to. Thanks for watching
Tools in your workshop look very clean and your teaching is very good. Thank you very much the good teacher.
Going to use mine (eventually!) to store dovetail-only cutting tools!!! Thanks again for your tireless devotion to spreading the word through highly effective teaching and a terrific learning environment.
I love how much attention you give to every little detail. Instead of just saying: "Do this!", you explain why you do each step the way you do, and you point out problems that can arise which us noobs probably wouldn't think of. Things like the benefit of using 2 dividers, clamping your work closer to the vice jaws to mitigate vibration, and moving your plane a bit further back when you are using it to support the tail board for marking pins. You are a truly fantastic teacher, thanks so much for all that you do!
This is beyond anything I've ever witnessed! You are an amazing teacher! The camera work is as precise as your instruction! MY. My.
Leonard was a
My wife got me an amazing dovetail saw for Christmas, can't wait to use it 😁
I'm waiting for Christmas night like a child after all these years
Great instructional video, I just wish I could afford to make these beautiful dovetail joints.
You can afford it, he also has a video where he uses a hacksaw, screwdriver, business card and a pencil to make just as good dovetails. Get cracking Fred 👍👍
after watching your videos for more than a year now, I built up the courage to try making my own dovetail box.
It was just a small box, nothing fancy. The first corner took me about a couple of hours, but by the end I was developing a rhythm. I probably made things a bit harder for myself by resawing some hardwood boards for the material.. Anyways, I think it turned out pretty good for my first time.
Having sharp tools, and the right tools, makes a huge difference.
Thanks for the great videos.
Just stumbled across your channel, Rob. First, let me say that you are an awesome woodworker. However, IMHO it's your teaching style and easy delivery that really allow you to shine amid the vast ocean of "similar" channels.
Simply superb, my man. I'm hooked.
superb tuition, a very good teaching style and just the right amount of detail to demonstrate the process perfectly.
Thank You for an excellent video....Reminds me of my days in school as a fifteen years old keep woodworking student, my teacher then was Mr. Rhule who like you took his time to explain. I was curious to watch your video after being guided here by a friend.
Thanks for the great video. I purchased your dovetail saw recently and have been practicing. Question - my biggest problem is getting my cuts on the tails at 90 degrees - even when I concentrate on it I keep getting about 92- 95 degrees. Is there a trick or technique that will help me?
absolutely well explained,why all the pros and cons..cant beat a proffesional with all the knowledge and willing to share..thankyou.
Thank you for that exceptional tutorial! I very much appreciate how thorough your teaching techniques are! I am new to wood working and most definitely will be watching more of your videos. Thank you again!
How to useHe dove tail he dove tail
I thought for sure you were gonna dry fit it first. Nope, just applied the glue and knocked it together. Perfect fit. Amazing!
If you liked those dovetails check out the wooden hinge on that box he showed !
I’ve been making a jewellery box for the mrs for our 5 year anniversary (year of wood) out of walnut and maple. For my first dovetail joint ever, gotta say I’m quite impressed. This process really helped. I even borrowed the tape on the coping saw handle trick 😁
Great video! You're a good teacher and I appreciate the details that you explain, especially your thought process while cutting, etc. Thank you!
I love it! Thank you! I just made my first drawer with dovetails last weekend. I have two more to go for this project. I takes forever to mart it all perfect and then cut it perfect. I tried using a coping saw but the blade is fatter than me saw so I got frustrated with that had chiseled all the waste out. But I have learned to get the chisels sharp so it is not too bad. I should probably look into getting a fret save like you use. The next purchase that I am saving up for is I want to get a fantastic plane. Anyway, thanks for both the education and the inspiration!!
Check out my fret say its a very reasonable price
An intimate look into the classic woodworker's joint. What a wonderful lesson. After a 40 year career as an architect my aspiration has always been to have a wood working shop. Mastering this joint is at the top of the list (one of many lessons still to learn). At least now my planes and chisels are finally sharp and polished...via your excellent videos on sharpening. My focus is on musical instruments-when not building "honey-do" cabinets and furniture. Your lessons have brought my work up to a whole new level. Thanks so much for lighting the way to fulfilling my dream.
This has been really useful for me as I’m making a beehive for my friends 50th birthday gift. It’s been about 35 years since my last attempt at a dovetail joint so I have much more confidence after watching - many thanks!
Thanks for this video Rob. This method has made a huge difference to the way my dovetails come out. You often say about taking things up to the next level and after my first attempt I felt that I was heading in that direction. Nearly every step of this method is different to how I was taught before. When the first joint went together with no gaps and after no "fine tuning and cursing", i couldn't believe it. Thank you for taking the time to research and develop a better way of woodworking and for passing your knowledge on.
I’ve been doing hand cut dove tails this way, working really well for my hand made furniture and boxes, wish I could upload a pic and show you, thanks for the tips 😊
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i clicked your tool links and "saw" the prices on the tools your using and I hit subscribe because either your the real deal or your the greatest imposter on here. either way I need to learn more, $250 for 1 hand saw is absolutely insane!!!
And it’s our number 1 item. Try it and you will find out for yourself.
Thank you for this, I to am a Veteran and I have just gotten into woodworking after retirement and this was a BIG help.
thanks for your service. check out our PHP program
I was drowning in woodworking videos as a beginner who doesn't know much. Your name kept coming up so I watched this video and am very impressed with your talent and demeanor. Of course, my video game brain keeps silently saying your name as Robco's Man but that's just a bonus when I can already tell your content is going to be a treasure trove of information and experience on tap.
Right now my shop is a compound sliding miter saw in my living room. It keeps raining so I can't drag it outside. My first project is making a saw table and I just learned about halflap joints a few days ago. Like I said I know very little.
I don't know when I'll have more tools but I can't wait to get into starting dovetails. It's going to be a while though. All I have is a one inch chisel, a cordless power drill, a few screw drivers, a pair of pliers and a box of screws. Oh yeah and a mountain of saw dust in the living room.
What a great craft though. Learning new skills on my first project. Of course building it from big box construction lumber. Definitely going to need a lot more hand tools before I start a furniture project and a better source of lumber. But that's all pipedreams because money is impossible. Still though, I've had this saw for over a year and finally plugged it in less that two weeks ago. Finally getting started building a bench for it is exciting even if I don't even have enough money to complete the project. I should have a good 2/3 of it done in a few days or a week then I can deep clean my living room. Lol.
Thanks for sharing your expertise, Mr. Rob Cosman.
I've been working over the last several months to set up a shop space in my garage while gathering basic tools. Once I can focus on crafting, I plan to use your tutorial content to begin actually practicing this technique and your other techniques. So stoked that you provide these tutorials! Thanks Rob and crew!
Same here, I built a foldable woodworking bench by taking Paul sellers bench idea and modifying so it it can be tucked away to park 2 cars. Haven basic tools and made a few using Paul's videos and I am in my garage all the time now learning from Rob and Paul the very new hobby I am in love with. Keep it up and all the best!
@@kakamaka9546 thanks so much! Yup, those two are awesome!
Thank you very much for a nice instructional video. I have tried tenon joints but dovetail takes me altogether to a new level. Using the square to position everything guarantees absolute accuracy that I thought only practice could bring. It's certainly opened a new dimension for me. Thanks again.
Just wanted to thank you and your team for providing (as usual) another incredibly valuable source of woodworking information. The techniques you describe are always demonstrated in clear and easy to follow logical steps. Attention to detail and working accurately is at the heart of your teaching methods - it is appreciated. Moreover, the passion you have for the craft and it’s promotion is inspirational. Once again, thank you!!!
Our pleasure! Thanks for watching and commenting
Beautifully explained and demonstrated 👍
Excellent workshop and application.
Being as I've lost almost all of my finishing tools and having the status of "homeless veteran" I may never again have the opportunity to enjoy my love of woodworking, but at least I can enjoy watching, for what it's worth.
Cheers 🪚🍻
What a fantastic video. I trained as a Mechanical Fitter and metal machinist, spent 7 years in college but never came across an instructor as good as this with clear, concise instructions. If only this guy was our wood work teacher in school i would have chosen the woodworking trade. Brilliant.
Don't hear of Fitters & Turners much now adays.
Encourages me to try again. Straight and and square cuts seem to have evaded me all my life.
Dangit Rob... I just bought two hand planes from you, among other things, and now you've got me wanting to buy the saw and marking gauges and everything else ...Could ya stop being such a great teacher!? You're costing me a small fortune! Seriously though - you get what you pay for, and I'm happy to support you for the work you put into everything. You've made me a believer.
I just spent a hour watching this and it only felt like 20 minutes thanks for the tutorial
Fantastic vid. So many folks doing these don't nearly have it mastered and it shows. You work is remarkable.
The new intro and outro is great, I'm making a display case for a statute, and a houndstooth wood hinge box where the tail ends contrasting the pins are spaced to resemble piano keys... Nathan Mitchell, New Brunswick. I'll bring it by after, it'll probably be a while because I have a bunch of things on the go.
Yes, bring it by the shop
brilliant one of the easiest to understand without complication...a masterclass, thank you !
I now mark my waste every time as last week I was making a large box commission spent 3 days dimensioning the timber then cut off a tail as I didn't mark it and wasn't paying attention. Luckily I followed advice in one of your previous videos and I'd dimensioned an extra side for just such an occasion
That is awesome! Practice makes perfect. Got to love being unplugged.
This is the single best dovetail video I have seen yet. You’re way of explaining things is perfect!!! Thank you!
This was fantastic! I watched it twice then stop&start as I made my own joint. It was amazingly good. You are a wonderful teacher. I bought a fret saw just for this project, but broke blade after blade. I have never used a fret saw before, but I’m guessing my tension was alle wrong. I ended up hewing the wast out with the coping saw. My biggest errors are in flattening the bottom surfaces of the cuts. I’m presuming practice will improve it over repetition. And my chisels aren’t sharp enough. (Watched your sharpening video immediately after). Thanks again!
You are a true craftsman. So glad I found you here. Thank you
Damn, the real takeaway is good quality tools are worth it - that saw is a wonderful idea, I'm going to make one myself tomorrow!
let me know how it turns out, glad you learned something
That was lovely,…..no blood and sweet fit ,well done.As a goldsmith you and I would get along just fine🙂
Thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to provide us with these wonderful tutorials! You are an inspiration and I hope one day to attend one of your workshops!
Thank you so much! we would love to have you join one of our Training the Hand Workshops. It will jump start your woodworking by about 3-5 years.
Very nice, tidy, logical way of doing it.
Thank you for all of the information, such a great education for all of us.
Thanks for watching and commenting
Mp
I want to step up my woodworking to use more dovetails for cabinets and drawers to store the things I enjoy keeping around. I hop to learn all I need from this video - thanks for sharing it!
Awesome video, as always! The joy of seeing the joint come together without a test-fit motivates me to strive for the same level of accuracy in every step.
And Jake: Excellent camera work! This gotta be your best one yet!
We will be coming out with a couple more videos on the tips and tricks of dovetailing so be on the lookout for them
Bob sincere thanks for posting such an informative and structured video. As a late comer to furniture making I admire your patience and craftmanship. Time now to apply it all!
I've just retired from the Canadian Armed Forces, I'm going to built myself a Shadowbox, it deserves perfect dovetail joints.
What's a shadowbox?
Excellent tutorial.... Have most tools didn't know what they were used for.... Now I do!!!!
Just curious, how long in the trade till you thought you were a great at what you do and 2nd how long would you say before you could call your self a teacher of the trade as I find you extraordinary at what you do.
Sorry I cannot call me great...my mentors were great, but not me.
I was pretty good after growing up woodworking, 5 years at BYU under th ementorship of Dale Nish, then one year intensive work assiting woodworking masters at the Aspen institute. Then I was ready to start on my own and was confident of my skills. I didnt start teaching until I saw a need, but I think for whatever reason I just naturally took to teaching.
Thank you Rob for the effort you put into explaining your techniques. Your teaching style is perfect.
Love the teaching, thanks!
Just a fun idea, can you make a dovetail joint that every slope is different? Just to prove that the slope doesn’t matter (as long as it’s square).
I am very new to fine woodworking. Took it up as a hobby 2 years ago.
I have been wanting to learn dovetails for awhile now. I am going to use your technique along with your wooden hinge to make my son a keepsake box for a high school graduation project.
I'm thinking, making fancy corners on corn hole boards! Take the look up a notch or three!
A couple months ago I began to acquire Rob's tools. I had purchased other saws and chisels several years ago. They weren't "cheap" and were doing a good job; I thought. Man, what a difference these tool make. In a very short time my joinery went from good(in my head), to really nice and in a fraction of time spent on each joint. They still aren't perfect, but the frustration levels decreased substantially, and the accuracy and enjoyment rose in direct proportion. Adopting the method and tools, while a considerable investment, have been the best hand tool purchases and time allotment decisions I've made in a while. Thanks to Rob, Jake, Luther and all the other's I've missed. Keep it up! Hey, Rob..two words..panel saw.. LOL
Ummm panel saws....I think its hard to improve over LN panel saws. Let me think on it.
@@RobCosmanWoodworking They do make a wonderful panel saw. I have their rip saw. But I "NEED" all my saw to match...
Compliment to the camera person.. didn’t realize they were there til you used the blade knife.😌👍
I did a two week class with Rob five years ago now. He changed my woodworking experience. And now he is sharing so much via RUclips. Hardly a day goes by without my watching some part of a RUclips. And I am always learning. This one is packed full! And I learned more. Thanks Rob!!!
No problem Vince. We will keep em coming if you keep enjoying them.
Think "Move it left and do it right" to remember on what side to cut.
Great mnemonic thanks
Your instructions are very thorough and clear. While watching you line up the saw to cut with your finger and thumb I thought a small block with the angle and squared would serve the same purpose until better skill was developed.
I am working on a custom; floor to ceiling shelves in my basement, and I am thinking that I want the entire facial surroundings in dovetails.
following this outstanding instruction, last night i was able to cut my very first through dovetail in 1"net walnut with only one slightly open joint....tonite going for perfect....thanks Rob!
You may be shocked if you order tools or products from Rob - the quality, care and level of skill behind each selection is amazing. Saves times and money to know what's a proven product and why it's worth the purchase over other choices. I was blown away by the personal attention given to my first order. I really appreciate Rob and his five-star crew!
I'm a keen amateur DIY'er and love to use power tools, the last time I attempted a dove tail I was at school, over 40 years ago, I've wanted to make my girlfriend some pretty boxes with dovetail joints but not had the proper knowledge or confidence, now I have both, I just need to buy some of the tools you have used and I'm off and running. Thankyou so much for a great tutorial, I'm now a subscriber. Martin in the UK 🇬🇧
I followed your sharpening technique, and very first time planned the board like a pro. Thank you Sir. Now with less effort I made perfect joint. Thank you again
If i have a long joint, its going to be sitting for more than a couple of minutes.. I just had to subscribe after seeing the level of perfection and looking forward to watching more of your vids, thank you.
Rob, I love your RUclips videos. Great job showing the right way to do hand work. You are such a master at dealing with accuracy. One tool I notice is not in your arsenal is a digital calipers and wondered why.
So refreshing to watch and listen to a professional craftsman rather than listening to wannabe comedians. Thank you very much for the content.