Festool DF500 Connectors

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For my Executive Desk build, I needed to employ knock-down hardware where the center panel connects the two pedestals. Traditional knock-down hardware would work just fine but I wanted to explore a new option from Festool. If you have a Festool Domino, their connector system is a no-brainer way to make sturdy non-permanent connections, or at least if the ads are to be believed. Like anything Festool, the system isn't cheap. But this Executive Desk is actually going to be my "lifetime" desk and build quality is a big priority, so I decided to give them a shot. The DF 500 Connectors have several configurations but I only needed one for my desk, and that's what I'll show you here.
From my limited experience with the connectors and this project, I have to say that these are the best/highest-quality knock-down connections I've ever seen. The parts aren't likely to come loose any time soon, which is something that's all too common with traditional cam-lock hardware (think IKEA). If you find yourself producing a lot of knock-down furniture or need this kind of joint for whatever reason, I think the system is a pretty solid investment.
DF 500 Connector Kit: amzn.to/2JrqZmP
Festool Domino: amzn.to/2JunZX2
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[@JaySellers]

For what their equipment costs, Festool should be world-renowned for their comprehensive instructional videos and manuals. Since they're not, you get to come to the rescue, as always. Kudos!

[@ikagviz2611]

Please do not apologize, this was EXACTLY the information I needed to see before going to spend $400 on a box of connectors. It certainly appears to be every bit worth it. I appreciate you taking the time to capture and share this kind of super specific content!

[@chrisdeister7745]

I noticed the (short) apology to your audience at the end of this. I want to say that this video was super clear and very helpful. I’m looking forward to more videos. Thank you for sharing your time and efforts with us.

[@cheeseisgreat24]

I feel like every woodworking video I see, regardless of if it applies to something I want to do as a project or not, contains tangential ideas that I can use in my work and just keep my thinking of what's capable of being done and keeps my mind sharp when I invariably have to figure out a "creative" solution to a problem.

[@OneManBandWoodworks]

Eliminates clamps on long glue ups too, very cool

[@SwallowForge]

I neither have a domino, nor do I make knock down furniture. However I do like cool doohickeys. Thanks for sharing :)

[@abdullahandy9493]

Pro tip : you can watch series at flixzone. Been using it for watching loads of movies recently.

[@wesleyjericho3766]

@Abdullah Andy Definitely, have been watching on flixzone} for months myself :)

[@woodbyfaust4616]

Glad you decided to put out, small tip videos in the middle of a guild build. Can’t wait to see what’s next

[@AngieWilliamsDesigns]

I am still drooling over the domino. I do plan on owning one soon. I dont' see me using the connectors. But I can still appreciate the video and enjoy seeing how they actually work. Thanks for sharing!

[@bighands69]

You do not need every festool accessory but they are there if you need them. The real benefit of that system is that you can produce something in the workshop take it to site and then assemble it.

[@grandolddrummer]

It's been a long time since I've watched a Spagg's video. I forgot how sweet and silky smooth that voice is 😚

[@mikesmathers5752]

Thanks for covering the practical application of this system. It has my interest, that's for sure. Well done!

[@woodwhisperer]

LOL at the sad person that thumbs the video down literally a few seconds after I posted it. Thanks for subscribing bub! :)

[@gizanked]

The Wood Whisperer they must not have liked your use of the word doohickey.

[@troymeredith521]

I've heard that there are "dislike" bots that does this automatically. Saw a video get 2000+ dislikes within a few minutes. Not sure what YT is doing about them.

[@enelgaragedemartincho]

The Wood Whisperer I bet he is your biggest follower. Always waiting for your videos to be able push the thumb down.

[@craigcoe2804]

I've got both machines and the 500 is nowhere near as accurate as the 700 is! I can't move the plastic view indicator 'doohickey' over far enough!

[@woodwhisperer]

I seriously doubt the even watched the video, haha!

[@airbear-ue1er]

it is nice to learn how some things are done even if I do not currently use that method for my projects. thanks for the post

[@mattparker8304]

Don’t apologize if someone isn’t interested, the video is clearly labeled and anyone who has a problem can go eat their hat. You put out amazing free content and I’m getting sick of the vocal minority crapping on what all of you content creators do. Thanks for all the amazing content!

[@woodwhisperer]

Matt gets it! Thanks, man!

[@glenmorrow]

Just bought a DF500 so this is perfect for me. Thanks heaps for another great video! My thumb definitely points up!

[@billyballard9184]

I just starting using this kit. I love it! I just built a rough storage cabinet for my sustainers using this kit.

[@geoffsemon7411]

Thanks for posting this. I recently bought a DF500 and these do-wickys would be perfect for a project I've been planning

[@weberwoodshop]

I appreciate the video Mark, it’s good to know this is an option when I’m ready for it. Great, simple explanation.

[@senseiroberts1]

Glad to see Festool have brought these connectors out for the smaller Domino now, thought I was going to have to buy the large one as well!!

[@IAmKyleBrown]

I'm loving the quick video segments, great content.

[@chadfoster2858]

So i used to build commercial furniture and office cubicles as a contractor: That is a really well built thought out system nice

[@C_Squared]

Festool is by far the highest quality tools on the market. this is an awesome addition to the lineup.

[@toolmanlh]

Thanks for the video. We recently got the larger domino and I can imagine instances where these knock down fasteners would be very useful. My only prior experience with dominos involved setting them up and watching them knock each other down. 😀

[@TheWoodLab]

It may be a deep niche, and I don't own a domino (yet), but it's really good to know this option exists for planning out any future project. - Jim

[@FredMcIntyre]

Cool, thanks for the info Marc! 👍👊

[@BoxcarJerry]

Thanks for doing this video , I looked at the kit and thought the same thing (WOW there's a lot a doohickeies in here ) I use the 700 connectors and love them, now I have the option of using these too . Festool did a book on the domino that included the DF 700 connectors and I found that super helpful . If anyone is interested that's available f or download on the festool site . I'm sure an update will be out to cover the DF 500 connectors at some point .

[@danielrisberg2112]

Great to see what you're able to do if you need to in the future! Thanks for a short and concise, yet instructive, video!

[@gregroberts875]

Thanks so much for sharing this information. I am also doing the desk project for my son-in-law and I was concerned how I was going to deliver such a large desk ( they live 8 hours away). With this system I can leave it unassembled and put it together when I get there. Take care😀... Greg

[@jwkjohnston7512]

Thanks for all your info, even though this doesn't pertain to me right now, it someday might and I dig that I only need pull you up. Great content , proud subscriber for years now brother, and my projects show it, thanks

[@woodwhisperer]

Thanks, man!

[@harrydavis6903]

Very interesting. Thanks. Just added another shelf in the" thought process garage." Another option is always good.

[@WiliamBennettwildarbennett]

In the possibility, of someday I'm able to do the level of craftsmanship comparable to this. It is nice to have a excellent instruction video that you do.👍

[@woodwhisperer]

Thank you, William!

[@pokiejackson3364]

Polite recommendation. I highly suggest price-checking all of the individual components without the box. They upcharge severely for that plastic box.

[@donavanshomes]

Thanks I had plan on picking up the kit when it came out just haven’t done it yet this just reinforced that I will be getting one thanks

[@bshomb]

Great explanation, makes sense now!

[@frankline.gonzalez-dwindt2355]

Thanks a lot for sharing this!

[@camaro375]

Thanks for show us how its works I am sold!

[@dsdragoon]

Great video! Since I'm a Festool DF700 owner I would enjoy videos using it and DF700 connectors. I also have the Seneca Small Mortise Kit, and I can now use 4mm to 14mm dominos. So, I can use the DF500 connectors but I like the bigger projects.

[@chesterbanner3093]

Doohickey, really enjoy technical terms. Haha. Nice share, thx for the info.

[@GibClark]

Definitely adds to me considering adding a domino to my arsenal

[@thomasemberson8021]

Thank you for the video. I am just about to start working on a bed for my son. Being able to break it down is, well, mandatory, won't fir through the door without the ability. I was going to use some RTE's I had lying around, Ikea still with a visible hex head. I might actually get this system. A lot of money, but, it looks like it might be durable enough to handle my 10 year old boy, and be hidden.

[@glenngoodale1709]

Thank you my friend ... 😊

[@tinman7781]

Very cool for people who want big stuff in small spaces ,ie Desk, and who move around, ie rent. Sweet.

[@bighands69]

Desks, panels, frames, cabinets and about anything else you can think of.

[@scottj335able]

Great video now I need tbat for my shop!! ☺

[@mversantvoort]

Seems like a good option for some cases!

[@markn2904]

Thanks for sharing.

[@periodcraftsmen]

Great video Marc!!!!

[@michaelvoss692]

excellent quickie!

[@WoodcraftSupply]

I'm literally in the process of making this same exact video! Good explanation, I might still your use of, "doohickey".

[@woodwhisperer]

Yeah I like to be as technically correct as possible. :)

[@felixfromnebraska8648]

Thanks, Marc, Looks like a great option. Wish it was a little more affordable.

[@alangrudzinski7439]

Great video as always!!

[@tommcbeain7789]

Great video! Very informative

[@adim1026]

nice video mate .Thx

[@perlnut]

Contact Festool and have them link to your video - easy to understand and takes a lot the mystery out of it. Good job.

[@Khether0001]

love your channel, btw 😊 !!!!!!

[@howardbecdove9780]

I’m not sure I’ll ever use this system. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not of any interest. Thanks for sharing.

[@stonesj1519]

Please stop apologizing in your videos!!! You have excellent content and I always learn something. Many thanks for tips.

[@irudi]

Great video. Now if only i could afford some festool tools. :)

[@roberthiday3342]

thanks. helpful

[@turgayaltuntas3751]

hi there can you also use those for mdf cabinet or so? nice vid

[@normjacques6853]

....and, just think, someday those bizarre little parts will make great 'What is it?' trivia questions on an episode of 'Marc's Old House!' :-)

[@normanerwin4242]

Like the approach. Will it work for a 3/4" Melamine? 73"h x 24"d x 48"w frameless.

[@vbaspcppguy]

Hey, would you say these (with some extra dominos only glued on one side) are strong enough for the corners of a bed frame?

[@Baumscheibenkunst]

2:28 how ist the post connector thing held in place? Just a friction fit?

[@BitsandWood]

I don't really do knock down builds, but I do love my Domino and that setup is pretty neat-o :)

[@bighands69]

I make kitchens, large tables, platforms, shelves, large frames, custom cabinets, Displays and large furniture that all can be made in my workshop and then assembled on site.

[@bigdogmn73]

Very helpful Marc...your the best! You should hook up with Mike Farrington. He does some pretty helpful video's as well and he lives in your area (some place in Denver).

[@BrianMansfield75]

375? Does it come with a drill for the drill bit and the drill guide?

[@treythorsen225]

Would this type of connection be strong enough for a connecting a bed frame??

[@hazembata]

I dig it. BTW, you can order dominos (wooden or these removable ones) MUCH cheaper from Amazon Germany. You can sign in with Amazon US account and order normally. I ordered the wooden Domino set and saved over $100.

[@doctordon7787]

How many joint functions does that kit support?

[@donnygrahambuilds]

Hey Mark - I know this video is a bit older, but do you know if the connectors work for miters? To be clear, I'm thinking something along the lines of like a mitered counter top, not a something like a continuous grain waterfall edge. Appreciate the help and solid content as always!

[@user-rh9xh1gs7j]

Доминов принципе шикарная вещь, плюс различные дополнения, делают этот инструмент многогранным без потери качества... Только ценник за любой болт Фестуула, запредельный

[@TWC6724]

Maybe you've covered this Marc, but if you had to choose between the Domino 500 and the XL, which one would you get for a furniture shop?

[@LostBoyLA]

Can these be used to hold together a bed frame?

[@daveweber1331]

Thanks, Marc. Appreciate you taking the time; I was curious how they worked, and how strong the parts are, etc. Cool 'n all, but... Please, someone, tell me there's a system out there for the rest of us non-Festool-endowed schlubs that have to use dowels...!

[@woodwhisperer]

There is. I mentioned it in the video. Been around for a very long time. :)

[@tylermerson6658]

Thanks, Marc. What holds the part that you inserted into the leg there? I didn't notice any threading or adhesive used.

[@woodwhisperer]

The insert widens out when you screw in the post. It connects to a nut and as that nut slides up, it pushes the sides of the insert out, forcing them into the sides of the mortise.

[@mlindholm]

The Wood Whisperer I was wondering that too, until I looked closer at the thumbnail. Doing a "dry assembly" explanation (not in wood) would have cleared that up greatly.

[@AssafOppenheimer]

Hi Marc, I have a fewof questions if you don't mind. 1) would the DF500 system work with say making a knock down joint for a bed rail, or should you get the DF700? 2) @2:27 wouldn't it be better to cut the 15mm leg hole a little deeper so that the "post connector thing" sits below the surface (by a couple of mil)? that should encourage a tighter joint, no? 3) if you used this system, how do you account for wood movement? thanks!

[@woodwhisperer]

500 can work but 700 is better if you can get access to it. For the post connector, I'm just following Festool's advice. I doubt going deeper would have much noticeable impact. Regarding wood movement, you account for it like you do in any other project. This is nothing more than a mortise and tenon that you can disassemble. Wood movement still gets the same consideration whether you're using actual dominos, regular tenons, or these knock-down components.

[@ericluba6287]

Hey where'd you get that t-shirt I've been seeing lot of pictures like that but on Pinterest

[@mikeharrington1772]

Do you think these are strong enough connections for bed side rails? I've seen the larger ones, but don't own the 700 domino.

[@woodwhisperer]

Probably not. The max depth of the 500 is really the heart of the issue. For a bed, I really think you'd want more substantial mortise/tenons.

[@bighands69]

On a bed if you used a pre cut tenon that you can for example put your rail through you could then use this system as a means to fix it in place. The load would really be bearing on the tenon and not the actual fitting. The fitting would be a glue of sorts. You can use this approach with many sneaky techniques so that you do not need to glue on site.

[@pf5658]

Awesome ! I thought they said that the 700 could not be used for thinner stock like 3/4” or was it 1/2”?

[@ThekiBoran]

At the time I bought my df500 the 700 couldn't be used to join 1/2" edge to 1/2" face. So I bought the 500. Shortly after my purchase Seneca came out with an adapter for the 700 that allows for the small dominos to be used to join 1/2" face to 1/2" edge. So the 700 can do anything the 500 can do but the 500 is limited in what it can do. I'm a bells and whistles kind of guy, I'd get the 700 even though I probably wouldn't have need for the larger dominos but I like having that option, just in case. On the other hand, besides having 5 fingers, if you know you will absolutely never need the larger dominos the 500 is smaller and a bit easier to handle.

[@pf5658]

@@ThekiBoran I totally understand your thinking on that decision. I figured I buy the 700 with those Seneca adapters at the time but now I’m planning to buy the 500 too.

[@LuxusHomeCreations]

Thanks for sharing my friend! Btw I whispered that... ;)

[@nixonwu1754]

Do you have the df500 and df700?

[@jjp52]

How does the connection feel? Does it feel as if you actually glued it in place? Just curious

[@woodwhisperer]

Yes it does. The fact that I put a regular domino next to each connector make it rock solid. And you don't need much holding pressure to pull the parts together so the connectors do that very well.

[@aussanadian]

The Wood Whisperer I've seen these offered in yankee land but I'm unable as yet to find them in the land of oz. (You know, the island where the brits sent their prisoners)

[@brianpatmore8418]

Carba-tech and Gregory's Machinery have them. Yes mine included convicts. Cash & Co (including)

[@Mburrisnav]

So for those of us that do this as a hobby (i.e. cannot afford festool) any runner up suggestions for a break down joint like this? I've used cross dowels, but they are a pain.

[@bighands69]

The only other option is the mafell duo doweller which costs the same level of money and is base around dowel joints. Triton have a dowel machine as well for about $300 but a lot of people are saying it has very poor accuracy and is not worth it.

[@JanHilt]

4 years later. Festool instructions are indeed crappy at times. So, here I am. Thanks. 😅 Ps, I should have known all this. After years of assembling [and dissasembling] IKEA stuff ...... 🤣💪

[@hinduspl]

+The Wood Whisperer Can you teach us how to use those connectors without a domino? just with selfmade jigs and router with spiral?

[@woodwhisperer]

This is the technique you would use: www.thewoodwhisperer.com/videos/quick-easy-mortises/

[@beerygaz]

Very cool if you can afford the box of goodies. Please add a comment or give us another clip of it coming apart! That looks like a nice tight for especially with the standard dominoes in there too, so if it's for knockdown furniture, how do you knock it down again?

[@zemlyak]

Good👍😊

[@ChristopherClaudioSkierka]

do you think you can use this system to join a back pannel of a wardrobe?

[@Anonymouspock]

Nice Graph gear 1000

[@woodwhisperer]

I'm diggin' it!

[@Khether0001]

please forgive my lack of experience, but do you consider the IKEA latching system too bad? I've assembled a lot of their furniture and those never seem to be the problem on the long run, other materials like their fake leather and above all their particle boards are bad, but the latches themselves seemed... more or less ok, I suppose... are those much better?

[@woodwhisperer]

My reference is to cheap particle board furniture. I shouldn't lump IKEA into that category because i haven't actually seen an IKEA piece in years. I know that old IKEA stuff I've owned didn't make it through a move. The knock-down joints didn't last. But the hardware itself was still in good shape, it was the particle board that didn't enjoy the stress.

[@foodparadise5792]

Ikea sells small portion of products are good in cost performance value but 90% of their products are junk in particular to wood related products. It seems everywhere these days so I decided to build my own. I wouldn't use ikea type of connectors on any of my hardwood furnitures. It's junk.

[@cityguyusa]

Measure twice plunge once whenever your inserting thingies and things.

[@Utoobhero]

I for one, thank you! Why do people troll? Do they not have a rewarding life outside of the Internet ?

[@mrohach]

$375?! I dont know why im surpised, it is festool afterall, but damn.

[@woodwhisperer]

Yeah it's up there. Looks like the connectors themselves will run you about $2.20 each. This kit contains 70 of those plus the drill bit, the jig, some dominos, and a few other doo-dads. Not exactly a good value but you already knew that based on the brand. :)

[@tylergordon696]

2.20 per connector is a lot. Even good quality can locks can be had for under a $.25. Even the off set ones(they have a hinge in them for panels that need too meet at odd angles) are less then .$75.

[@benmiles-mathewson4010]

$375 is better than the uk. £376.92 inc vat on their web site or $505.79 USD !!!! Annoyed of England.

[@bighands69]

$375 is not a lot of money when you consider that a job could be worth thousands.

[@00dahc]

Please glue two Powermatic tools together with Titebond in next video. Thank you.

[@stephenjimenez9539]

Almost makes me want to sell my kidney to get a Festool. Great demo.

[@OliWarner]

Is this actually better than a cam screw though? Even if you own a Domino, cams are super simple to mark and drill out. And 95% cheaper.

[@cobberpete1]

I've got a Domino but $300 + is a little bit more than I want to pay, I'll stick with the regular screw locks for that type of assembly.

[@bighands69]

You may not actually need the kit. Lock screws are fine but if you are looking to produce something that is as good as the domino joint then this kit is the way to go.

[@MaxMakerChannel]

Joke of the day: These knockdown connectors will be great for, card houses, slippery when wet signs and sand castles.

[@bighands69]

They are also great for making large frames on site and not need to glue them up. Sometimes you only want to be assembling on site.

[@donvanco3078]

lol - "Just like Ikea, only 7,000 times the price" is probably more apropos.... But it's a nice option for those able to afford the "FU money" pricing of Festool.

[@bighands69]

It is nothing like Ikea. It is a jointing method that joiners and fitter can use on a site for a project that was started in the workshop.

[@chancebeasley6536]

I have to stop reading the comments section. People whine and complain about FREE content that they clearly don't have to watch about a topic that is clearly in the Title of the said FREE video. If you don't own any Festool, there are other ways. He is showing you ONE of the ways. If it's another video about chisels, please don't complain that you don't own any of those either. Watch want you want to watch and enjoy it because, you know, it's for free. Sorry. Rant over.

[@woodwhisperer]

It's like watching a cooking show and screaming at the TV, "BUT I DON'T LIKE FISH!!!"

[@mcremona]

What's your favorite glue for installing dominos?

[@woodwhisperer]

It's an odorless, tasteless, invisible glue that I manufacture and sell. It's $50/bottle. I'll send you some!

[@mcremona]

sounds too good to be true

[@Hatchmade]

I'll take 3

[@aussanadian]

Birchtreefarms you're a wanker mate, you must be a millenial or a dude that is too cool to buy lumber and has to mill up whole trees and calls himself a hairy giggling hipster.

[@aussanadian]

Oh wait I forgot to post that to Cremona!!!!!