What Did Medieval European Carpenters Use for Wood Glue? Joinery vs. Glue

In the medieval period, European carpenters and woodworkers faced the challenge of finding effective methods to join wood. This article explores the materials and techniques used by these skilled craftsmen and provides a comparative analysis of whether they relied more on wood glue or mechanical joints.

Introduction to the Crafts of Medieval Woodworking

Medieval woodworking was an essential craft, vital for the construction of buildings, furniture, and decorative items. The period saw a variety of techniques and materials employed to create durable and aesthetically pleasing structures and objects.

Glue and Its Uses in Medieval Times

Glue played a significant role in medieval woodworking, primarily for two purposes: sticking and binding materials, and illuminating cartouches with golden leaf. Medieval monks were adept at using egg whites to create an effective binding agent for books and illuminations. The egg whites, after being heated and whipped, formed a strong, flexible bond that was ideal for these purposes.

Another type of glue used was fish glue, derived from the heads, bones, and skin of fish. This glue was prepared in a similar manner to other animal glues. However, the consistency of fish glue was often thin and less sticky, making it less suitable for structural applications.

Joinery Techniques in Medieval Carpentry

The use of joinery techniques was the primary method employed by medieval carpenters to construct sturdy and long-lasting wooden structures. Due to the green and unseasoned nature of the wood used, it was often less suitable for wood glues, which may weaken over time as the wood dried and contracted.

Joinery techniques, such as mortise and tenon joints, dovetail joints, and pegged joints, were highly effective and well-suited to the materials and tools available at the time. These methods required a good understanding of the wood’s properties and behavior to ensure strong and durable joints.

Comparative Analysis of Glue vs. Joinery

The choice between using glue and joinery in medieval woodworking depended on the specific application and the project’s requirements. Glue was effective for small decorative elements and books, where flexibility and ease of assembly were crucial. However, for structural elements where stability and durability were paramount, joinery techniques were the preferred method.

Medieval carpenters often combined both methods to achieve the best results. For example, glue could be used to attach minor components or to reinforce joints, while the primary structural connections relied on joinery techniques. This hybrid approach ensured that the final product was both functional and visually appealing.

Resources for Woodworkers Today

Today, modern woodworkers can benefit from the extensive resources available to help them achieve similar results to their medieval counterparts. Websites and online platforms, such as the one linked below, provide detailed plans for building projects with step-by-step instructions. These resources cover a wide range of projects, from beginner-friendly simple constructions to complex designs, ensuring that users have comprehensive guidance at every step.

For detailed plans and step-by-step instructions for building projects, please click here.

Conclusion

Medieval carpenters primarily relied on mechanical joints (joinery) over wood glues for constructing robust and long-lasting wooden structures. While glues like egg whites and fish glue were used in certain contexts, they were not always suitable for the harsh conditions that seasoned wood experienced. Understanding the properties of wood and the effective use of joinery techniques allowed medieval craftsmen to create impressive works of art and utility.