Rabbet
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionA rabbet is a step-shaped cut along the edge or end of a board. It removes a rectangular section, leaving an L-shaped profile. Rabbets are used to join the back panel of a cabinet (the panel sits in the rabbet), to overlap box corners, and to recess glass in a picture frame. You cut rabbets on a table saw with a standard blade (two passes at 90 degrees to each other), with a dado set (one pass), or with a router and a rabbeting bit. Common rabbet depths are 1/4-inch for back panels and 3/8-inch for frame stock.
Why It Matters
A rabbeted back panel sits flush with the cabinet edges instead of being nailed to the outside face. This gives you a cleaner look and more rigidity because the panel is captured in the groove. For picture frames, the rabbet holds the glass, mat, and backing in place.