How to Make a Pocket Hole

When it comes to making a beautiful wooden creation, joining the timber can be something of a challenge and for less experienced woodworkers, making the kind of mistake that messes up the project is a real possibility. This is why we recommend learning pocket hole joinery as it is one of the quickest and easiest ways to join wood.

For many woodworkers, the process of learning difficult techniques and skills can be immensely rewarding and uniquely satisfying. Spending some ‘alone’ time in your workshop is a haven for many would-be artisans and these individuals are aghast at the notion of ‘quick and easy’ joinery such as pocket holes.

However, we also have to cater to results based woodworkers who simply want to create something they can use rather than enjoying the hallowed workshop experience. In this article, we show you how to make pocket holes. You’ll be surprised at how simple it is once you have the right tools!

How to Drill Pocket Holes

When it comes to pocket hole joinery, all you need to do is drill a hole and drive a screw! Before your start drilling, be sure to have your depth stop in the right position. A good tactic when creating pocket holes is to drill a ‘test piece to ensure the screw length and hole depth are correct. It’s better to find out now rather than halfway through the project.

Clamp a drilling guide in place and make sure its end is flush with the end of the timber you’re using. The purpose of the guide is to hold the drill bit at the proper angle and guarantee expertly drilled holes.

Step two involves screwing the pieces of wood together. Line up the timber pieces correctly and put the screws in place. It helps if you have jigs and clamps to hand as they do a fantastic job of keeping everything tight.

Should I Use Pocket Hole Joinery?

If you have a pocket hole jig, you’ll probably end up using it regularly as it is a wonderful tool. Pocket holes are excellent if you want to join two pieces of wood together fast and easy and don’t mind leaving holes behind.

In simple terms, pocket hole joinery is fine for pieces where the holes will always be concealed. An example would be in the creation of cabinet boxes. You can secure almost everything with pocket holes and you’ll never actually see them!

It is not the best technique when the project will leave visible holes behind. For example, you could drill pocket holes when crafting a garden shed door but you’ll end up with noticeable holes on the exterior that need to be filled. The gaps allow water to settle so the wood will warp over the next few years. You can actually conceal visible holes with pre-made wood plugs although it isn’t ideal.

Conclusion

If you’re new to woodworking or else you want to join wood quickly and effortlessly, pocket hole joinery is a fantastic option. It allows you to make practical items for use around the home without taking up most of your free time.

However, if you love the woodworking process and the challenge it provides, it is best to stick with more skilful and difficult joinery methods rather than relying on pocket holes.