A Few Tips on Using a Pocket Hole Jig

Pocket Hole Jig Basics

A pocket hole jig is a great tool to use when creating wood joinery in furniture and cabinet construction. When getting started, you don’t necessarily need the most expensive jig – the most basic will do just fine! To help out those beginning to work with pocket holes, I’ve created a video demonstrating some basic concepts of using a pocket hole jig (apologies for the video quality, I’m still quite new at making them!)

In order to drill the hole in the proper place for different thicknesses of wood, it is essential to adjust the stop collar on the bit as well as determine the proper placement of the jig.

Use this handy chart to reset the depth collar on the drill bit for different material thicknesses:

• 1/2″ material – set the collar at 3-1/4″ from the step on the drill bit, and locate the jig 1/4″ over the edge of the lumber
• 3/4″ material – set the collar at 3-1/2″ from the step on the drill bit, and locate the jig flush with the edge of the lumber
• 1-1/2″ material – set the collar at 4-1/4″ from the step on the drill bit, and locate the jig 1-1/4″ back from the edge of the lumber

There is also a little-known tool on the bottom of this particular pocket hole jig. It has a slot to insert a filler plug which in turn helps insert the plug into the pocket hole. Apply a bit of glue in the pocket hole first, insert the plug then use a flush-cutting saw to cut the plug flush with the workpiece.

I hope my tips on using a pocket hole jig takes some of the intimidation out of pocket hole joinery. Pocket holes are a quick and easy way to make strong joints in almost every project you build. Have questions? Contact me at cher {at} designsbystudioc {dot} com!

Originally posted 2013-10-29 08:00:09.