Abstract: There is described an improved system for the assembly of furniture and like items, comprising flat surface panels having a plurality of peripheral edges thereabout, longitudinally extending grooves formed in one or more of the peripheral edges, edge members for covering selected ones of the peripheral edges and connectors corresponding in cross-sectional shape with the grooves for slidable engagement therewith. The connectors each have a base and a groove engaging portion, wherein each connector is connectable along its base to a respective one of the surface panels or edge members. A surface panel or edge member may be assembled to another surface panel by means of a slidable connection between the groove engaging portion of the connectors thereon and the groove in an abutting edge of the other surface panel.