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Traditional softwood dovetails use a 1:6 slope (~9.5°); hardwoods often use 1:8 (~7.1°). The ratio defines how far the tail widens per unit of depth.
Angle = arctan(1 / ratio)Divide the joint width by the desired number of tails (typically odd for symmetry). Each tail width at the baseline equals spacing minus pin width; pins are cut at the slope angle from the tail sockets.
Tail width = (Joint width − (N_pins × Pin width)) / N_tailsFor half-blind drawer dovetails, pin depth equals drawer front thickness minus 1/16 inch for clearance. Tail length matches pin socket depth exactly for a flush exterior face.
Pin depth = Front thickness − 1/16 inUpdated: July 2026
A 12-inch-wide drawer side with five tails at 1:6 slope on 3/4-inch stock. Calculator sets tail spacing ~2 inches on center, pin width ~1/4 inch, and slope angle 9.46° for marking.
Half-blind dovetails on a 4-inch-tall drawer front in 3/4-inch maple. Pin depth is 11/16 inch, three tails fit the height with 1/8-inch minimum pin at the top and bottom edges.
A 3/4-inch sliding dovetail 8 inches long at 1:8 slope for a bookshelf dado. Tail base width and socket width are calculated so the joint slides with light hand pressure when fitted.
Both sides of the joint must use the same ratio (1:6 or 1:8). Changing angle mid-layout creates gaps at the root of tails and weakens the joint.
Edge pins (half-pins) are typically half the width of interior pins. Layout must reserve space for both half-pins before dividing the remaining width among full tails.
Dovetail joints require precise pin and tail spacing, consistent slope angles, and balanced layout across the joint width. This calculator generates cutting dimensions for through, half-blind, and sliding dovetails so you can mark and saw accurately the first time.