One of the most effective methods for joining moulding chops is the wedgelock system. This time-tested technique uses a dovetail-shaped slot routed into the inner edge of each chop at the corner joint. The slot is designed to accept a plastic wedgelock—a small, wedge-shaped piece that locks the two chops together when driven into place. The dovetail profile of the slot ensures that the wedgelock cannot pull out once seated, creating a joint that is both strong and reliable.
Preparing for the Join
Before assembling the frame, ensure that both chops are cut to the correct length and that their ends are square. The corners where the chops meet should form a tight, flush joint with no gaps. Sand the ends lightly if needed to remove any splinters or rough edges, but avoid rounding the corners—sharp edges help create a tight fit.
Gather your materials: the two moulding chops, a plastic wedgelock, wood glue, and a small hammer or mallet. Have a damp cloth nearby to wipe away excess glue before it dries.
Joining the Chops with Wedgelock and Glue
Step 1: Apply Wood Glue
Apply a thin, even bead of wood glue along the end grain of one chop where it will meet the other chop. Do not over-apply—excess glue will squeeze out and create a mess. A light coat is sufficient to create a strong bond.
Step 2: Position the Chops
Carefully position the two chops so their ends meet at a 90-degree angle. Press them together firmly to ensure good contact and to distribute the glue evenly across the joint. The dovetail slots in both chops should now be aligned, forming a continuous channel where the wedgelock will be inserted.
Step 3: Insert the Wedgelock
Slide the plastic wedgelock into the aligned dovetail slots from the inner edge of the frame. Push it in by hand until it is seated about halfway. The wedgelock should slide smoothly without excessive resistance. If it binds, stop and check that the chops are properly aligned and that the slots are clear of debris.
Step 4: Drive the Wedgelock Home
Using a small hammer or mallet, gently tap the wedgelock further into the slots. Strike the wedgelock squarely and with controlled force—do not hammer aggressively, as this can split the moulding or damage the wedgelock. Continue tapping until the wedgelock is fully seated and the joint feels solid. You should feel the wedgelock lock into place as the dovetail profile engages fully.
Step 5: Clean Up Excess Glue
Immediately wipe away any glue that has squeezed out from the joint using a damp cloth. This prevents the glue from hardening on the visible surfaces of the frame and makes finishing easier later.
Step 6: Allow the Glue to Cure
Let the joint cure for the time recommended by your glue manufacturer—typically 24 hours for most wood glues. Avoid moving or stressing the frame during this period to ensure the strongest possible bond.
Practice and Refinement
Mastering the wedgelock join takes practice. Start by joining practice chops made from scrap moulding to develop a feel for the process. Pay attention to how much force is needed to drive the wedgelock home, how the joint should feel when properly seated, and how to recognize when something is not quite right. With experience, you will develop the muscle memory and intuition needed to execute clean, strong joins consistently.
The wedgelock system remains popular among framers because it is reliable, reversible if needed, and produces joints that last for decades. By understanding the geometry of the dovetail slot and practicing the joining technique, you can create frames that are both beautiful and built to endure.
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