Building a traditional sauna can feel daunting—especially when it comes to intricate joinery like dovetails. But with patience and practice, dovetails become not only manageable but deeply satisfying. In a sauna, where wood expands and contracts with heat and moisture, strong, tight-fitting joints are essential. Hand-cut dovetails offer both structural integrity and timeless craftsmanship. Start with softwood test pieces, use a sharp chisel, and focus on clean layout lines. Many modern builders blend classic techniques with subtle jigs or templates for consistency. Remember: perfection isn’t the goal—function and character are. Embrace the process, and soon your sauna’s walls will lock together like generations before, radiating warmth and tradition.
