What is a box joint and where would you typically use it in cabinet construction?

• A. Dowel joints; used on drawer fronts.
• B. Interlocking finger joints at corners for strength; used on drawer sides and cabinet corners.
• C. Mortise and tenon joints; used on back panels.
• D. Biscuits; used on shelves.

Answer: (B)

Box joints, also known as finger joints, are formed by cutting a series of rectangular fingers on the ends of two pieces that fit together at a corner. When glued, the fingers create a large surface area for a strong bond and the pieces align precisely, distributing stresses along the joint for a very sturdy connection.

In cabinet work, this joint is typically used at the corners of a drawer box and the cabinet carcase. The interlocking fingers make a strong, square box that resists pull-apart forces, which is ideal for drawer sides and the box-like structure of the cabinet. While other joints like dowels, mortise and tenon, or biscuits have their uses, box joints are especially well suited for corners of boxes and drawers because of their strength and large glue surface.