05/30/2026
🪵 What’s a Spline in Timber Framing? 🪵
In timber framing, a spline is a smaller piece of wood fitted into matching grooves between two or more timbers to help align, strengthen, and stabilize a joint. Think of it as a partially hidden connector that helps lock everything together while still keeping the beauty and integrity of traditional joinery intact. Splines can be under girts and connectors, above or both!
Splines can be used for:
✔️ Strengthening connections
✔️ Keeping timbers aligned during assembly
✔️ Reducing movement over time
✔️ Adding both structural support and visual character
At Jeff Johnson Timber Frames, we like to take things a step further by using Black Walnut or Cherry splines whenever possible. Not only do they perform beautifully, but the contrast against lighter timbers creates a subtle handcrafted detail that really stands out.
It’s the little touches like this that turn a timber frame into a true piece of craftsmanship. 🔨✨