View source for Keys, Tongues and Slip Feathers

In [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wood_veneer '''Cabinet Making'''], and other forms of fine woodworking, '''Keys''', '''Tongues''' and '''Slip Feathers''' are terms used ''(sometimes interchangeably)'' to describe small pieces of material ''(usually wood)'' which are used to strengthen a joint. they can also be used to create a decorative effect if a contrasting colour material is used.
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<span style="color: green">'''Note:'''
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Key_%28engineering%29 '''Keys'''], '''Tongues''' and '''Slips''' are also terms used in [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering '''Engineering'''] to describe small pieces of metal used to locate components.
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[[File:FeatherKeys.png|300px|right]]
=====Veneer Keys=====
Small pieces of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wood_veneer '''Veneer'''] ''(or '''Feathers''')'' can be glued into saw cuts made across a joint to provide additional strength. Note the direction of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wood_grain '''Grain'''] on the Veneer to ensure maximum strength.


If a contrasting wood veneer is used and/or the directions of the saw cuts varied, some interesting decorative effects can be created.


=====Loose Tongues=====
[[File:Tongues.png|300px|left]]
Thin strips ''(or '''Slips''')'' of '''[[Manufactured Board|Ply]]''', timber or other materials can be inserted into a '''Groove''' cut into each joining face to form a '''Loose Tongue''' which completes the joint.


If the strip is made from timber, its [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wood_grain '''Grain'''] should run across the joint ''(i.e. in the direction of the arrow)'' to achieve maximum strength.
[[File:SlipFeathers.png|300px|right]]






=====Shaped Keys and Tongues=====
Small pieces of contrasting wood or other materials can be shaped and inserted into matching recesses to produce bold decoration in addition to adding substantial strength to the joint .




[[Category:Terminology]]