How to Use Pocket Hole Jigs

  • Written by Doityourself Staff
    on Dec 21, 2010
What You'll Need
Pocket hole jig kit, which will include the special drill bit
2 pieces of wood at least 12 inches long for practice
1 1/4 -inch drywall screws
Electric drill
Pocket hole plugs
Phillips head screwdriver

The only way to join lumber together, if you want to separate them later, is to use some pocket hole jigs. These form a strong bond and can hide the screws or nails that hold everything together. The pocket hole jig is excellent addition to any carpenter’s collection and an easy tool for the beginner to learn.

Step 1 – Place Wood into Jig

Set your aluminum pocket hole jig on a flat surface and insert one piece of wood. Tighten the thumb screw to secure the wood.

Step 2 – Drilling the Holes

Using the special bit included in the kit, drill out the holes. The special bit drills the holes to the exact length.

Step 3 – Insert Screws

Use 1 ¼ inch drywall screws to connect the two pieces of wood. The 1 ¼ inch-drywall screws are the right length, and they have a very sharp point that helps get the screws started.

Step 4 – Fasten the Wood Together

Set your wood end-to-end in shape of an “L.” Now, screw in the screws with the screwdriver.

Drywall Screw: What Size Drywall Screws to Use
Bit Drill Hole: Installing Vinyl Shutters On Brick Walls
Bit Drill: How to Install a Parquet Flooring Transition
Wood Step: Solid Deck Stain Application
Wood End: 6 Tips for Cutting Redwood Lumber
Pocket Hole: How to Build a Wood Bench