Wedged Tenon question

[noddy67]

When cutting the actual wedges for some wedged tenons should the wedge grain run parallel or perpendicular to the tenon grain?

Thanks for any help.

 

[houtslager]

perpindicular - matching the tenon's grain

hs

 

[Philly]

Noddy
Importantly - the wedge should run ninety degrees to the grain of the MORTISE piece. Otherwise the wedge can split the timber.
Hope this helps
Philly

 

[noddy67]

Thanks guys. I understand that the wedge should be at 90 degress from the tenon but my question is when you're cutting the wedge does it matter which way the wedge's grain runs?

 

[Philly]

Noddy
You want the wedges grain to be straight - you'll be tapping it with a hammer so if the grain is short it will splinter.
Is that what you mean?
Philly

 

[noddy67]

Thank Philly. Me just being dumb. Just downloaded a great article from FWW on wedged tenons which should clear up my confusion.

 

[woodbloke]

Noddy - make sure also that you use a close grained hardwood for your wedges, makes them allot easier to tap in place - Rob