Lamello Joinery: Zeta P2, P-System Connectors & More

Discover Lamello joinery systems, including the Zeta P2, P-System connectors, Cabineo connectors, and more. Compare tools, applications, and connector types.

We're here to help: If you need direction on where to start, what connectors to use, or any other questions, give us a call or email customerservice@oaktreesupplies.com and we can help you decide!

Who Is Lamello?

Lamello is a Swiss company founded by Hermann Steiner, the original inventor of the biscuit joining system. They have earned their reputation as a producer of high-quality joinery tools and accessories. Their innovation sets them apart, with features like detachable connections for knock-down furniture, invisible joints, and the unique groove made by the Zeta P2 Joiner.

The Lamello P-System is an invisible joinery system. It uses self-clamping connectors to create fast, precise joints for cabinets, furniture, closets, and built-ins — available in both removable and permanent options, with no clamps or visible hardware.

Zeta P2 Joiner

What distinguishes the Zeta P2 from other biscuit joiners is its vertical cutting movement. It starts off cutting the groove like any other biscuit joiner, but once it reaches the maximum cutting depth, it automatically makes a vertical cut. This cut is essential for creating the unique groove that P-System connectors anchor inside.

Versatile

The Zeta P2 works with all P-System connectors as well as Lamello System connectors and biscuits. Available in both corded and cordless versions and with either a diamond or carbide cutter.

Diamond Cutter

Designed for maximum durability and consistent performance in abrasive materials like MDF, particleboard, and laminated panels. Ideal for high-volume environments.

Carbide Cutter

A versatile option well-suited for solid wood, plywood, and general shop use. Delivers clean, precise cuts with excellent performance across a wide range of materials like Hard Maple, Oak, and Cherry.

P-System Connectors

All Lamello P-System Connectors are designed to work seamlessly with the Zeta P2 Handheld Joiner or a CNC router equipped with P-System CNC cutters and accessories.

Clamex P-14

Detachable, versatile connector for miter joints in material as thin as 18 mm and butt joints as thin as 15 mm, for angles from 30° to 180°. Nearly invisible once installed, it’s a popular choice for open shelving, large furniture, and angled counters.

Clamex P-10

A smaller version of the Clamex P-14. Ideal for thinner materials (minimum 12mm for butt joints) where a deeper groove is not possible. Detachable, nearly-invisible connector for 30° to 180° angles

Clamex Medius P-14/10

Detachable, two-part connector combining a Clamex P‑14 top half with a smaller Medius P‑10 bottom half. Creates a nearly-invisible joint for units where two shelves meet a dividing panel at the same height, like cupboards and bookshelves.

Clamex P-14/10 Flexus

Detachable, nearly-invisible connector, similar to the Clamex P-14/10 Medius, with flexible positioning pins that let panels be fitted into an already assembled cabinet or tight, hard-to-reach spaces. Also excellent for retrofitting shelves to existing furniture.

LC P-16

Acts as an adaptor for the detachable, nearly invisible Clamex P-14. This makes it possible to utilize P-14 connections in lightweight panels like honeycomb, MDF, and hard foam without the need for concealed wood edges. Available in three sizes.

Tenso P-14

Self-clamping, two-part connector used with glue for a permanent, concealed joint without the need for clamps or presses. Projects can be glued and assembled piece by piece, instead of applying glue to all workpieces, clamping, and waiting for glue to dry.

Tenso P-10

A smaller version of the Tenso P-14, ideal for thinner materials. Can be used in material as thin as 15mm for miter joints and 12mm for butt joints. These self-clamping, two-part connectors are used with glue to create a permanent joint without visible hardware.

Divario P-18

Self-clamping, detachable connector that creates a completely invisible joint for inserting shelves or partitions. Assemble by sliding in between two fixed sides or shelves using a guide groove. No glue or clamping required.

Bisco P

Plastic alignment biscuit designed for the 7 mm P-System groove, with no cutter change required. Used in conjunction with Clamex and Tenso connectors, it ensures proper alignment and flush joints, and can also be used for dry test assembly before final gluing.

Biscuit Joiners

Classic X

Lamello’s tried-and-true biscuit jointer. It is compatible with all Lamello System Connectors. Available in corded or cordless models.

Top 21

Specialty biscuit joiner with a height-adjustable cutter. This function allows you to make a groove in the exact center of your material.

Lamello System Connectors

The Lamello Original joining system remains the benchmark for biscuit joinery, showcasing enduring innovation for the modern building environment. These connectors work with any biscuit joiner equipped with a 4mm thick blade.

Clamex S-20

Detachable, two-part connector secured with screws for material thicknesses from 16 mm. Connected with a lever and requiring no adhesive, it is suitable for joints at all angles and for both fixed or detachable connections.

Clamex S-18

Like the Clamex S-20, this detachable connector is secured with screws, but is recommended for thicker materials (miter joints from 19mm and butt joints from 15mm). Ideal for open shelf units, large furniture, angled counters, etc.

C20

Transparent plastic biscuit for joining mineral composite materials such as Corian. The white, transparent plastic helps prevent show-through in thin materials and does not swell, making it suitable for outdoor and wet-area applications.

K20

Clamping plastic biscuit with a grooved surface that anchors itself into a 4mm groove. Used in combination with wooden biscuits, it holds the workpiece in position until the glue in the wooden biscuit slots has dried. Ideal for workpieces that are difficult to clamp.

Wooden biscuits

Tried-and-tested wooden biscuits available in three sizes (#0, #10, and #20). Precise dimensions ensure a secure fit in the groove, preventing the biscuit from falling out, even when turning over the workpiece. Their shape promotes optimal glue distribution for strong joints.

E20

Self-clamping connector that locks with a few hammer taps—no clamps or drying time needed. Curved ridges hold it in the groove and clamp the workpieces together. Available in sizes for surface joints, edge joints, or as glueing aids and plinth connectors

Cabineo Connectors

Cabineo are one-piece cabinet connectors with high clamping force. All you need is a CNC to machine the surface and a drill. Since there is no pre-assembly of screws or dowels in the side panels, Cabineo connectors will save you time in the production, transportation, and assembly of cabinets.

Cabineo 12

Designed for corner joints in standard 3/4" (19 mm) cabinet panels. Equipped with a longer 12 mm Euro screw for deeper penetration and higher clamping force. Exceeds KCMA load requirements for kitchen cabinet testing.

Cabineo 8

Cabineo 8 has the same housing as the Cabineo 12, but with a shorter 8 mm Euro screw for shallower connections or thinner material without sacrificing clamping force. Suited for 1/2" (12–13 mm) panels, partitions, or shelves.

Cabineo 8 M6

For increased strength, this Cabineo uses a metric M6 threaded screw instead of a standard Euro screw. Use with a threaded insert nut for wear-free connections in wood, phenolic resin, or metal panels where repeated assembly is required.

Cabineo X

Open-housing connector compatible with any Cabineo screw or shelf support for maximum flexibility. Can be used for cabinet corners, partitions, fixed shelves, or adjustable shelving, and prevents shelves from being pulled out when used with shelf pins.

Invis Connectors

Invisible, detachable joining system that works via the power of magnets! Invis is time-saving and easy to install. The groove is made with a specialty bit that can be used in either a CNC or a power drill with the Rasto Drill Jig.

After the grooves are made, the Invis connectors are inserted with the specialty screw bit. Workpieces are connected, and the joint is secured with the MiniMag. The MiniMag attaches to your power drill and drives the two connectors together just as one cogwheel drives the other. The result is a joint with a clamping force of up to 550 lbs.

Invis is also easily detachable by simply reversing the direction of the drill with the MiniMag still attached. This allows you to take apart the two workpieces, making transportation or adjustments a breeze.

The Invis Starter Set Includes the specialty drill/CNC bit, Rasto Drill Jig, specialty screw bit, MiniMag & more!

The same screw bit is used for both the male and female connectors.
The double threaded connectors make installation quick and precise.
Flexible shaft on the MiniMag attachment allows connections at odd angles and small corners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started & Tools
Do all Lamello connectors require the Zeta P2?

No. Lamello System connectors can be used with any biscuit joiner equipped with a 4 mm blade. P-System connectors require the Zeta P2, while Cabineo and Invis connectors are used with a CNC or power drill.

Is the Lamello Zeta P2 just a biscuit joiner?

No. The Zeta P2 can cut traditional biscuit slots, but it’s primarily designed to cut precision profiles for P-System connectors. These profiles allow mechanical joints—some permanent, some removable—that go beyond simple alignment and glue-up.

What do I need to get started using the P-System?

At minimum, you’ll need a Lamello Zeta P2 and compatible P-System connectors. A great way to start is with a Lamello assortment Systainer (Basic or Professional), which includes a variety of connectors so you can try a little of everything and see which ones you use most. You can expand your collection as your projects grow.

What warranty does Lamello offer on their tools?

Lamello joiners are backed by a two-year warranty.

Where are Lamello products manufactured?

Lamello tools and connectors are designed and made in Switzerland, a country known for precision engineering. Swiss production standards ensure tight tolerances, consistent fit, and reliable performance, so every tool and connector meets strict quality benchmarks before leaving the factory.

Joints & Applications
Do Lamello connectors require clamps or glue?

It depends on the connector. Some connectors lock parts together mechanically without glue or clamps, while others can be used with glue for permanent joints. The system allows you to choose based on your project and workflow.

Are Lamello joints removable or permanent?

Both. Clamex P is fully removable for knock-down or serviceable assemblies, while Tenso P is designed for permanent joints.

How do I join panels invisibly?

Lamello offers several invisible connector options, including Tenso P, Divario P-18, Bisco P, Invis, as well as all plastic and wooden biscuits. Clamex connectors are nearly invisible, with only a 6 mm access hole that can be covered with Clamex Cover Caps.

Can Lamello be used for cabinet and case construction?

Yes. Lamello connectors are commonly used for cabinet carcasses, shelves, dividers, and case assemblies, especially where fast assembly or clean interiors are important. Cabineo 12 Connectors exceed KCMA load requirements for kitchen cabinet performance testing.

What types of projects is the Lamello System best suited for?

Lamello is ideal for cabinetry, furniture, casework, built-ins, and assemblies where accuracy, speed, or repeatability matter. It’s especially useful when parts need to be assembled off-site or without clamps.

Materials & Performance
Does Lamello work for solid wood, plywood, and MDF?

Yes. Lamello connectors are compatible with solid wood, plywood, MDF, and other panel materials, as long as the material thickness meets the connector requirements.

How strong are Lamello joints compared to other joinery methods?

Lamello joints are designed to meet or exceed the strength needed for typical furniture and cabinet applications. Strength varies by connector type and material, but most joints are comparable to traditional glued joinery.

Comparisons & Value
Lamello P-System vs Festool Domino: What’s the difference?

The Domino uses loose-tenon joinery that relies on glue for strength. The Lamello P-System uses mechanical connectors that can lock parts together without clamps, and in some cases allow disassembly. The two systems solve different problems and are often used alongside each other.

Is Lamello good for production shops and one-off builds?

Yes. Production shops value the speed, consistency, and reduced clamping time, while one-off builders appreciate the precision and flexibility for complex or custom assemblies.

Is Lamello worth it for small shops or serious hobbyists?

Lamello is a good investment for those who value accuracy, repeatability, and faster assembly. It’s most beneficial when time savings or clean, serviceable joints matter, and may be less useful for occasional hobbyists or simple projects where traditional joinery works fine.

Why is Lamello more expensive than other joinery systems?

Lamello tools and connectors are precision-manufactured as part of a long-term system. The cost reflects machining accuracy, durability, and specialized connectors rather than just the tool itself.

Starter Sets & Helpful Accessories

P-System Basic Assortment Set

P-System Professional Assortment Set

Cabineo 8 M6 Starter Set

Cabineo 8 & 12 Starter Set

Cabineo X Starter Set

Clamex S-20 Starter Set

Invis Starter Set

Divario 18 Starter Set

LC P-16 Starter Set

Minicol Glue Bottle

Cabineo Cover Caps

Clamex 90-Degree Cover Caps