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A stopped single sided dovetail housing joint, is a joint that does not extend across the entire width. It has a ‘notch’. This means the detail of the dovetail, is not seen on the outside edge.

It is slightly more difficult to mark out and cut the joint, compared to a joint that extends across the full width.

This type of joint is ideal for shelving and panels.

A double sided dovetail housing joint, offers even more strength than a single sided dovetail housing joint. The angled dovetails prevents the joint pulling apart.

It can be regarded as a difficult joint to mark out and cut, due to the two dovetail angles. If marked out or cut inaccurately, the joint may not slide into position, sticking, before it lines up with the housing / groove on the second piece.

This type of joint is ideal for shelving and panels. It is rarely prepared as a ‘stopped’ housing, because the detail of the dovetails is a decorative feature.

Ideal for shelves and divides in cupboards and desks.