Use this workshop calculation to turn measured dimensions and the selected construction convention into a cut, spacing, fit, or material-planning value.

Dovetail depth (mm)

Required number input.

Horizontal tail offset (mm)

Required number input.

Convert measured dovetail vertical depth and horizontal offset into the traditional N:1 depth-to-offset slope. The tool evaluates the supplied inputs together and returns the named outputs below; it does not infer omitted operating conditions or change the units shown.^[1]

Dovetail slope N:1

The resulting dovetail slope n:1 returned as a number.

• Nominal dimensions, kerf, moisture movement, hardware clearances, wall squareness, and manufacturer instructions can change the required shop dimension. Measure the actual assembly and test critical joints on scrap before cutting finished material.
• Use finite inputs in the displayed units and preserve more precision than the final presentation requires. Independently verify safety-critical, financial, compliance, or production decisions.

Complement the calculated dimension with a physical story stick, dry fit, or full-size layout. Follow the hardware, coating, adhesive, or machine manufacturer's limits where they differ from a rule of thumb.

• Dovetail Angle

  Convert a traditional dovetail slope of one unit offset per N units depth into an angle measured from the board edge.

• Bevel Angle

  Bevel angle of a sloped cut from vertical rise and horizontal run in the same length unit; measured from the horizontal.

• Dovetail Angle Hardwood

  Compute the dovetail angle in degrees for a 1:n slope ratio suited to hardwood.