3 Ways to Cut Mortises Without a Mortising Machine
👋 Mortise and tenon joinery is a timeless technique used by serious woodworkers to create strong, lasting connections. But what if you don’t have a mortising machine in your shop?
No worries—you can still cut mortises using tools you likely already have. In this guide, we’ll explore three popular methods to help you decide which one is best for your next project.
Spoiler: there's an easier, smarter way at the end!💥
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1. DRILL AND CHISELS
The drill and chisel method is often the first go-to for beginners—and for good reason. It only requires a power drill and a set of sharp chisels.
How it works
You mark your mortise, drill overlapping holes to remove the bulk of the waste, and clean it up with a chisel.
Pro and Cons
Inexpensive and Great for learning hand tool control.
But here’s the catch:
It takes time, precision, and patience. If you’re making several mortises or need repeatable results, this method quickly becomes frustrating. And getting crisp, parallel walls isn't always easy—especially with hardwoods.
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2. ROTARY TOOL FOR SMALL MORTISES
If you're working on small boxes or decorative joinery, a Dremel or rotary tool with a router base can be surprisingly handy.
How it works
Equip a straight bit, trace your mortise, and slowly plunge and carve out the cavity.
Pro and Cons
Good for delicate or narrow mortises and Easy to control on softwoods
But Here are Some Limitations:
Rotary tools lack the power and bit stability for larger mortises. You’ll also find it difficult to get uniform depth and clean sidewalls, especially if you’re working on larger joinery like table legs, doors, or cabinets.
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3. SANRICO MORTISE ATTACHMENT
This is where it gets interesting. Our SANRICO Mortise Adapter lets you turn your regular drill or drill press into a full-fledged mortising machine—without the bulk, noise, or price tag.
How it works
Attach the SANRICO adapter to your drill or press, insert the square chisel and bit, and you’re ready to cut clean, square mortises with surgical precision.
Why it’s a game-changer
- No need for a standalone mortiser
- Cuts faster and more accurately than hand tools
- Works on hardwood, softwood, and everything in between
- Saves time, money, and effort—especially on large projects
Whether you're building a workbench or crafting custom furniture, this tool delivers professional-grade mortises in minutes.
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You don’t need expensive machines to create strong mortise and tenon joints. While traditional methods like drilling and chiseling have their place, they can be slow and inconsistent—especially for repeatable tasks.
That’s why more DIYers and pros are turning to the SANRICO Mortise Adapter: it’s efficient, easy to use, and delivers flawless results every time.
Josh J. Gur - CEO
