I used to think pocket hole jigs were just for quick fixes

I was helping my neighbor build a set of garage shelves over in Tacoma last weekend, and he pulled out his Kreg jig. I always saw those things as a shortcut for stuff that didn't need to last, like a quick face frame or a simple box. But he showed me a bench he built with it three years ago that's held up to his kids jumping all over it, and the joints are still tight as a drum. He said the trick is using the right length screws and glue in every hole, which I guess I never really did. I'd just crank in whatever screw was handy. Now I get that the system itself is solid if you follow the steps right. It's not just a hack, it's a legit joinery method for a lot of jobs. Anyone have a favorite project they built with pocket holes that surprised them with how strong it turned out?

2 comments

2 Comments

kais672d ago

The right length screws and glue" is the key to most shortcuts.

smith.ray2d ago

Yeah, my buddy tried to skip the glue on a shelf last week. Used screws that were way too long and split the wood. Whole thing just fell off the wall, books everywhere. Tbh he spent more time fixing the drywall than if he'd just done it right.