Pocket Hole Basics
Professional furniture makers have used pocket hole joinery for years ...and for good reason. It's a simple way to achieve a strong, permanent joining of two pieces of wood.
So exactly what is a pocket hole, and what's so special about it? A pocket hole is simply a hole drilled at an angle that forms a pocket for the screw. Think of it as a highly engineered toenailing technique. What makes it precise is the design of the pocket hole jig that guides the drill bit into the wood at a specific angle to produce an engineered hole to house the screw head.
After the pocket hole is drilled, a specially designed fastener is used to assemble the joints. These case-hardened screws are designed with self-drilling tips that will not split the wood when the screws are driven in, even in hardwoods such as oak and maple.
One of the advantages of pocket hole joinery is that you only need to use one clamp to complete a project — because each joint is assembled individually.
Another advantage is that there's no need to wait for the glue to dry before continuing on with your project. Once you drive the screws, the joint is permanently assembled, allowing you to continue building and giving you the opportunity to complete your project in hours rather than days.
How to Hide Pocket Holes
One of the few disadvantages of pocket holes is the visible mark they leave behind. But fortunately, there is a way to hide them. To do so, simply purchase pocket hole plugs which are designed to completely hide pocket holes or decoratively accent a visible pocket hole. Once you glue the pocket hole into place, sand or trim it flush. For the best results, choose solid wood plugs which are available in a variety of wood species including maple, pine, oak, and paint-grade.
Are Pocket Hole Joints Strong?
Though pocket hole joinery has many advantages, one if its limitations is strength. Pocket holes are considered easier and quicker to make compared to some other stronger joints like mortise and tenon. Pocket holes are similar in strength to simple joinery techniques including loose tenon and biscuit joints. If strength is of the utmost importance for your woodworking project, it’s best to stick with classic joinery techniques like mortise and tenon or dowels. If you do opt for pocket hole joinery, which can be safely used for many woodworking applications, ensure you use glue in addition to pocket hole screws. Glue plays a significant role in securely holding screws in place.
Types of Jigs
A jig is necessary for creating pocket holes. Pocket hole jigs help guide the drill to allow for the screw to make a precise connection with the wood it’s being drilled in to. Jigs range from entry-level to advanced models. Basic, entry-level options are designed with a single guide hole while upgraded models feature built-in clamps and adjustable hole guides to accommodate varying thicknesses.
Drill Bits to Use
Pocket hole bits are specially designed to work in conjunction with pocket hole jigs. They drill angled holes that will accept a pocket screw. Pocket screws are self-tapping and designed with a wide washerhead.
Two Simple Steps to Wood Joinery – How to Use a Pocket Hole Jig
These two steps will allow you to create strong, professional wood joints in a fraction of the time needed with other joinery methods.
Instructions
Frequently Asked Questions About Pocket Hole Joinery
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using pocket holes?
Pocket holes are relatively simple and quick to make compared to other joinery techniques. They're also versatile and can be used on many different wood types, including plywood and MDF. One disadvantage is that pocket holes create visible holes. These holes can be mitigated with pocket pole plugs, however. Another drawback is that sometimes pocket holes can cause wood to split. Avoid using pocket holes on wood prone to splitting.
Where to use pocket holes and why?
Pocket holes are a versatile joinery technique that can be used for many applications including furniture like tables, chairs and bed frames as well as woodworking projects like cabinets. They should not be used when the wood is weak or thin as the holes may cause the wood to split.
Are pocket holes necessary?
No, pocket holes aren’t necessary as there are several other joinery techniques that can be used. If you want to hide screws in your woodworking project, pocket hole joinery might be the best option.