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Mechigai Tsugi

目違い継ぎ

Cross-lapped joint locking two beams at right angles with interlocking tongues and grooves.

3Dモデル: Meji-tsukikake-awase-tsugi by thejoinery on Sketchfab

組み立ての要点

This joint maintains alignment across intersecting beams while distributing load across broad faces, ideal for modular structures assembled without metal fasteners. Mechigai Tsugi locks two members at right angles through interlocking tongues and grooves—a cross-lap that resists separation in both directions and keeps frames square during assembly.

歴史的背景

Mechigai Tsugi (cross-lapped joint) is one of the foundational shiguchi used in gate construction, garden pavilions, and interior framing. The name refers to the crossed tongues (mechi) that interlock at the intersection. Because it requires no nails or screws, it suits structures that must be disassembled or rebuilt, including temporary festival architecture and modular garden buildings.

組み立て手順

  1. Mark the crossing point on both beams; scribe half-lap depths with a marking gauge.
  2. Lay out the interlocking tongue and groove profiles at the intersection.
  3. Saw the half-lap faces, then chisel the tongues and grooves to match.
  4. Test-fit; both members should sit flush at the intersection with no play.
  5. Assemble remaining frame members; the joint resists racking when the frame is complete.

日本で見られる場所

  • Traditional gates (mon) — Temple and shrine precincts throughout Japan
  • Garden pavilions and tea arbors — Kyoto gardens and historic estates

バリエーション

Lap depth is typically half the member thickness but can be reduced for lighter work. Some versions add a peg through the intersection. Shachi Sen (half-lap at corners) is a simpler variant without interlocking tongues.

用途

  • Gate structures
  • Interior frames
  • Garden pavilions

必要な道具

  • Marking gauge
  • Chisels
  • Dozuki saw

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