Understanding Mortises: Types, Uses, and Cutting Techniques

A mortise is a recessed area in a piece of wood that is designed to receive the tenon of another piece of wood. The tenon is a projection on one end of a piece of wood that fits into the mortise, creating a strong and secure joint.
Mortises are commonly used in furniture construction, such as in the legs of a table or the frame of a chair, where they provide a solid connection between two pieces of wood. They can also be found in architectural features like door and window frames, where they help to distribute weight and provide additional strength.
There are different types of mortises, including:
* Straight mortise: A simple rectangular recess that is cut straight into the wood.
* Shouldered mortise: A mortise with a flat bottom and sloping sides, which helps to prevent the tenon from slipping out of the joint.
* Dovetail mortise: A mortise with a wedge-shaped recess that is cut at an angle, allowing for a more secure fit with the tenon.

Mortises are typically cut using a specialized tool called a mortise chisel or a mortising machine. The process of cutting a mortise involves carefully marking the location of the recess on the wood, then using the chisel or machine to remove the material and create the desired shape.