Finger joints are generally created by using identical profiles for both pieces. They are made complementary by rotation or translation of the tool with respect to the workpiece. Typically a finger router bit is used, but spindle molders can also be used. Manual cutting of finger joints is time-consuming and error-prone hence rarely done except in craft pieces.

-A tapered or scarfed finger joint is the most common joint used to form long pieces of lumber from solid boards; the result is finger-jointed lumber.

-The finger joint can also be valuable when creating baseboards, molding or trim, and can be used in such things as floorboards, and door construction.