Lapped joints -- cross-laps,
half-laps, and
sloped laps -- are cut with both joining pieces notched or slanted to
the same depth. Cross-laps are used to join crossing pieces; half-laps
and sloped laps are used to join the ends of long pieces. Lapped joints
offer a large glue area, but they aren't particularly strong. They're
often used in drawer guide framing pieces and can be pinned with nails
or screws from the back. To strengthen lap joints, some cabinetmakers
cut them with a dovetail configuration.
In lapped joints, the joining pieces
are cut to
the same depth and held with glue; they can also be held with nails or
screws. The cross-lap joins crossing
pieces; half laps and sloped laps join the ends of long pieces.
Some lapped joints are cut with a dovetail for additional strength.
