Question: Is it hard to make a scarf joint? How do I do a scarf joint?
A scarf joint is absolutely necessary for joining two boards firmly and with microscopic seams...
Answer:
A scarf joint is one in which two pieces of material cut at roughly 45 degree angles are placed complementary to each other. A scarf joint is contrasted with a butt joint in which the two pieces are cut at 90 degree angles.
A scarf joint is usually used for baseboards.
You cannot make a good scarf joint without using a miter box or miter saw. Virtually invisible scarf joints depend on precise 45 degree angle cuts.
Advantages of a Scarf Joint
- Firmer joint.
- Seam is less noticeable.
- Allows you to drive the finish nails straight into the board (90 degree angle) rather than at other angles that are more difficult to achieve with manual hammering. Because the scarf joint angle runs at 45 degrees, your perpendicular nail will run through that area.
