Why CedarSchemes uses biscuits in cedar planters
CedarSchemes uses biscuits for a more attractive look for our cedar planters and garden accessories. A friend and fellow woodworker introduced me to biscuits several years ago. The idea of creating attractive and functional planters with minimal visual fasteners appealed to me. I made a point to learn more about the biscuit joining system and how I could apply this technique to the planters I build. I’d like to share that knowledge with you.
Details matter
There are many types of joints available to woodworkers. Biscuits represent what amounts to newer technology for joining wood. In 1956 Hermann Steiner, a Swiss carpenter, invented the biscuit joining system. When used in woodworking, a biscuit is a small oblong piece of wood that’s shaped like a deflated football.
Biscuits range in sizes, usually between 2” to 2.5” long. A cutting tool cuts half the shape of the biscuit into each piece of wood that will be joined with another piece. Every cut is filled with glue, and the biscuits are wedged into place before matching the other section of wood to its mate. Clamps hold the two pieces of wood together while the glue dries.
A biscuit joint looks like this:
Biscuits are normally made from compressed beech wood so the biscuit reacts to the liquid glue by expanding into the available space. The result is a joint that’s very strong without using visible joining techniques like screws.
Why biscuit joints are so beneficial
From the woodworker’s point of view, biscuits are easier to work with than more exacting joinery techniques (like mortise and tenon) and produce a very strong bond for joints at an angle or joining sections edge to edge. They’re also stronger than screws particularly when the screw goes into end grain. That’s why CedarSchemes uses biscuits in our cedar planters. This technique also results in a more attractive look for our custom cedar planters and garden accessories.
From a customer’s point of view, using biscuits creates joints that don’t show, so nothing takes away from the wood’s appearance. Because our customers use our planters mainly outside, when we decide to use biscuits and glue to join boards, we use only waterproof glue. Depending on design and purpose, we use biscuit joints in both our standard and custom cedar planters.
Always learning
I believe in the value of discovery of new ideas and life-long learning. I build skill and refine my craft through many sources. Fellow woodworkers and I share ideas, techniques and brainstorm solutions to unusual woodworking challenges. I read dozens of wood working journals, books and magazines every month. Browsing aisles in woodworking supply stores reveals new tools, materials and potential designs. Some of my best insights come from our customers. Each unique design I make for a customer presents fun challenges.
I hope this article helps you better understand the process of joining wood together in a less traditional way than you may have previously known about. I also hope you now understand why CedarSchemes often uses biscuits in our cedar planters and garden accessories.