
If this is your first time using pocket hole screws, you will learn how to select the right screw, drill a hole, and use the Kreg Jig. If you're a beginner, you might even want to skip to the end, because it's so easy! It's very easy to screw the wrong-sized screw into a board. But when it comes to gluing two boards together, using pocket holes is crucial!
The right screw
When you are constructing a woodworking project, choosing the right pocket hole screws for the job is essential. These screws are versatile and will hold the wood for a long time. The type of thread you choose depends on the wood. You should use a coarse-thread screw for soft wood. Pocket-Hole Screws from Kreg are ideal for working with soft woods or sheet goods.

Drilling the hole
To use pocket hole screw, first drill the hole and then insert the screws. The pocket hole exit point should be approximately 1/4" from the edge. The exit point of the pocket hole should be about 1/4" from the edge of the workpiece. Use the right jig or drill bit when drilling the hole. The wrong bit or jig will result in the hole not being centered.
Spacers are used
It is important to use a spacer for pocket holes when working with wood. Spacers will help you avoid making mistakes that could cause the screw to become out of alignment. The screw will stay put by having two screws on each side of the joint. Also, use two screws along the joint to prevent it from slipping out of alignment. The spacing between the screws should also be greater.
A Kreg jig is used
Kreg jigs can be used to create drawers or cabinets. These tools come with adjustable collars which can move in and out depending on what material you are using. The drill guide will eventually be emptied of any waste after the drill is completed. You should clean the step bit flutings every time you use the jig.

Wood plugs
Wood plugs, when used with pocket-hole screwdrivers, are an effective and simple way to cover any exposed edges. Wood plugs can be purchased at the hardware store. Simply drill a hole in the pocket of the scrap wood pieces and insert a 3/8” dowel. Next, cut the plug flush with a flush cutter saw. Using a plug cutter is another option to prevent uneven surfaces.
FAQ
What tools should you start with to become a woodworker
Woodworking requires patience and practice. It takes time to learn how to use all the different tools and techniques required for woodworking.
There are many options for woodworking equipment today. Some prefer power tools while some prefer hand tools.
The choice is yours, but you must ensure you choose the right tool for the job. It may be a good idea to start with a basic set, if possible, if you don’t know much about hand tools.
A router is a tool that cuts intricate shapes in wood. You can also learn how to use it. These can be found at most hardware shops.
Can I refinish furniture that I make?
Yes! You don't have to hire a professional to refinish furniture. There are many ways you can do it yourself. Here are some suggestions:
Sandpaper can be used to remove stains and scratches. Then wipe down the surface with a clean cloth.
Clear polyurethane varnish should be applied. Allow to dry completely before moving furniture.
Acrylic paint is a great way to paint furniture.
Instead of using paint, stain is a better choice. The furniture will get a rich look with the stain.
Shellac wax can be applied. The wax will add shine to the wood and protect it.
This is a job that I can make a living from.
Yes! In fact, most woodworkers already have it. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual woodworker wage was $34,000 in May 2012. This is significantly higher than the national average, which is $31,000 per year.
How often do I need to buy new supplies
You will likely need to replace some tools over time. If you're using hand tools, you'll need to sharpen them regularly. For power tools, replacement parts will be required frequently. Avoid buying too many products at once. Spread your purchases out over several months.
Where can I purchase woodworking supplies
There are many places that you can find all the information you need. You could also visit hardware stores in your area or shop online at Amazon.com.
You can also check garage sales and flea markets for old furniture and other materials you can reuse.
How can I keep my shop organized?
Setting aside an area to store tools is the first step in keeping your workshop organized. Keep your tools away from dust and debris, so they stay sharp and ready to work. Hang tools and accessories using pegboard hooks.
Statistics
- If your lumber isn't as dry as you would like when you purchase it (over 22% in Glen Huey's opinion…probably over 10-15% in my opinion), then it's a good idea to let it acclimate to your workshop for a couple of weeks. (woodandshop.com)
- Most woodworkers agree that lumber moisture needs to be under 10% for building furniture. (woodandshop.com)
- Woodworkers on the lower end of that spectrum, the bottom 10% to be exact, make roughly $24,000 a year, while the top 10% makes $108,000. (zippia.com)
- The best-paid 10 percent make $76,000, while the lowest-paid 10 percent make $34,000. (zippia.com)
External Links
How To
How to make wood joint
This tutorial will show you how to join two pieces of wood together. We will use the "pockethole joint," which means that we drill holes in the wooden pieces and then glue them together. This works well if the wood is straight and smooth. If your wood isn't straight or flat, you might want to try another method, such as dowel joinery. Here are the steps
-
Drill Pocket Hole Joints. Measure and mark the location where you would like to place the pocket hole joint. Next, drill 3/4 inch holes in each end of each piece using a handheld drilling machine or jigsaw.
-
Sand Smooth. Sanding the wood's edges will ensure that the joint doesn't split.
-
Glue both sides together. Apply glue to both the ends of the wood. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before clamping the pieces together.
-
Connect the pieces. After the glue has dried properly, clamp the pieces together to make sure they are flush.
-
Trim Joinery. Trim any excess wood surrounding the joint once the glue has dried completely.
You should leave enough space between the pieces to allow you to turn them inside-out.