The Joinery Compendium - Learning from Traditional Woodworking

The Joinery Compendium is a collection of over 400 handcrafted wood joints from around the world. This unique compilation offers insights into the fascinating diversity of these joints, their history, and applications. At a time when sensitivity towards existing building structures and wooden constructions is growing, historical and simple building techniques are gaining renewed relevance. Wood is increasingly being used not only in construction and furniture making but also in sustainable products. Wooden joints without nails or adhesives serve as an inspiration for repairability and life cycle considerations. The book’s introduction provides fundamental knowledge about wood and traditional hand tools. An illustrated guide to the naming conventions of joints leads into the main section. Each joint is presented with a detailed profile featuring axonometric and planographic drawings, along with a step-by-step guide for its creation. The simplified graphical representation with ample white space allows users to add proportions and notes as part of their own creative process. An illustrated glossary at the end of the book facilitates comparability in design processes and enhances accessibility to digital search platforms. The terminology is available in German, English and Japanese. The Joinery Compendium provides an easily comprehensible overview through language-neutral illustrations, encouraging a contemporary approach to the subject while inspiring a passion for traditional wooden joints.