Walnut Side Table – Legs
As I looked for designs and possible dimensions for the table I came across an article and really liked the design and the challenge of using a Bridal Joint. I also like the original design used a few years ago with the exposed through mortises. I have used the exposed joints on a couple of projects from Paul Sellers, Coffee Table and Arts and Craft Side table. Use the links if you want to go to those project pages. I think that the table should use both joints. It also will allow me to try a couple of things that I have not done previously.
The article that I saw the bridal joint was actually a video series #193 Sept/Oct 2007. I also looked at other sources.
I spent some time making sure that the grain worked for the project and then squared everything up. I found the card shaper handy with the tear out that I’ve been experiencing. Anyone used one of the high angle frogs in heavy tear out?
The mortiser again made quick work and only a little clean up was needed with a chisel. Next the bridle joints which I did with hand saws and my band saw. I measured very carefully and it paid off, only minor plane work on the tenon to get it all together.
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orepass 
I think bridle joints are a pretty joint and under appreciated. Good for you in using one.
I have a 4-1/2 hand plane with a 55 degree frog in it. I work with a lot of cherry and often will get some tear out when using my normal No 5 or No 3 plane with a 45 degree frog. I then will switch to the 55 degree frog plane and it does help reduce/clean up the tear out. It won’t always eliminate it but I do see an improvement. If you’re looking for an excuse to own one, I think there is an argument to be made to have one.
Thanks for the thoughts Joe, I actually have ordered a high angle frog and am hoping it will arrive this weekend. It should also help with some of the other Texas hardwoods I see such as mesquite.
Within the last year I made a Paul Sellers style clock out of mesquite that I had purchased in Texas when visiting my brother. It was a wonderful fragrant wood wood and looked beautiful when finished with blond shellac. It was hard hard wood. Subjectively, it felt about twice as hard to work with hand tools than oak. Tear out on some parts was a problem and the high angle plane should help. Glad I worked with it. Part of the fun of woodworking is trying different woods to see how they behave and develop that mental inventory. Looking forward to updates when you have the high angle frog and use it.