Dadoes

Dadoes, or dados as the plural form, refer to a woodworking groove or slot cut into a piece of wood to receive another piece, typically its edge or end. The term is most commonly used in cabinetry and joinery to create strong, aligned joints without visible fasteners.

In practice, a dado is used to fit a shelf into cabinet sides, to join dividers to a case, or to rear panels to back frames. The groove is rectangular, with its width matching the thickness of the inserted piece. The depth is usually substantial but not excessive, commonly about half to two-thirds of the material’s thickness, leaving material on each side for strength.

There are several common variations. A through dado extends entirely through the workpiece and is visible from both faces; a stopped dado ends before the far edge and is concealed on that face, creating a cleaner appearance. Less commonly, a sliding or partial dado is used where a panel or component slides into a fixed groove, though this approach can require precise fitting.

Cutting a dado can be done with a table saw using a dado blade, a router with a straight bit, or a hand tool approach with a saw and chisel. A backer board or sacrificial piece behind the workpiece helps reduce tear-out on entry and exit cuts. Proper layout and precise measurement are essential to ensure the mating piece sits flush and square.

Alternatives to dados include tongue-and-groove joints, biscuits, dowels, or pocket screws, depending on the required strength, alignment, and appearance. Dadoes remain a fundamental method for strong, clean, joinery in furniture and cabinetry.