Tenoned dowels make for unique stretchers and legs on a variety of projects. However, creating that tenoned end usually requires some turning and fine-tuning — which is why I employ this method instead.

Begin by chamfering the end with a block plane (Figure 1). Then select a hole saw to match your mortise. You could use a battery-powered hand drill, but I prefer to use a hand brace, as I find I do a better job of staying straight-on when working by hand. After reaching the proper depth, use a knife or saw to remove the remaining waste. -Keagan Burch Kannapolis, North Carolina