Beginner's guide to pocket hole joinery | WOODWORKING BASICS

[@chrislucas2324]

Probably the ONLY video that I've found that talks about drilling direction of the pocket holes, and why you want to go into the "face grain" or "edge grain", and into the "meat" of the wood. Super solid overview sir!!!

[@katandpapa]

Just bought my first Kregg 320 pocket hole jig! I'm 60 years old and I feel like a little kid at Christmas!!! Your video was helpful! I'm getting ready to build a small patio table! I've been layed up with Cancer but I need to feel at least a little productive and woodworking is an awesome option! BE SAFE,GOD BLESS!🇺🇸🙏❤

[@gorillajoe999]

Kick that cancer's ass Dave!

[@prayertool]

Dave Stump hey Dave .... you go get em. Proud of you!

[@CondensedComments]

Praying for you to have a great recovery in God's name, God bless you!

[@cms1083]

I know this was posted quite a while ago but I hope you're doing well now !!

[@freedomtrailamerica2981]

God bless. I will be praying for you. You are courageous!

[@iinglorian]

Hey Steve, I love your videos! This last weekend my son (age 8) and I were going to work on a project that was going to require pocket holes. I brought up this video and told him to watch it so that he would know what we were doing. When it came time to do the work, he told me how to setup the jig. He then took the drill and drilled the holes, screwed in the screws, and I drank a cup of coffee and watched! It was marvelous! Thanks for a GREAT video!

[@timothymbess]

Ah, good old child labor! "This playhouse ain't gonna build itself, Billy."

[@Anubisxian]

Child labor laws are ruining this country!

[@eli72481]

+Anubisxian agreed.

[@onemarktwoyou]

LOL!!! Anubisxian I read your comment five minutes ago and laughed. Then I thought about it. Then I realized it was probably true. Our kids are lazy and stupid because they don't need to be anything else.

[@Relfy75]

Great work Kalvin. Good on him for getting stuck into it. Steve's videos are fantastic and I watch them all the time with my father.

[@patrickzadd5215]

although I’m watching your video seven years after you posted it the information is still accurate….. and well presented thank you

[@rdpru]

This was my first video to watch on this subject. Extremely glad I watched yours. Your technique is awesome, and your speed and style of teaching is down to earth and easy to grasp. Well done sir. Looking forward to more of your videos.

[@AdamMcAdler]

3 years later, and still can't believe Leo didn't get the award for his riveting performance as the MicroJig

[@GeoffWhittaker]

He was robbed.

[@houma1984]

I do not understand why so many disliked?

[@outerbanksproductions_videos]

That gig was really funny!

[@gregghernandez2714]

@@houma1984 It is because Woodworking purists (snobs really) don't thing pocket hole joinery is "real woodworking." I personally prefer using dowels, but sometimes it just isn't worth the time or effort. Pocket holes are great, especially when they are hidden in the back or underneath a project like Mr. Ramsey says. Sure dove tail joinery is beautiful but sometimes it just isn't necessary.

[@llehmannz]

But it's become a cult classic since the Academy ignored him

[@jono9549]

I like to place a nickle on the base when I adjust the stop collar. Great video, basic instructions are always appreciated!

[@suecurtis4989]

Great tip!

[@stevendrake6831]

Found this video the most informative and enjoyable to watch and re-watch about pocket hole joinery. To the critics I say, "Steve Ramsey appeals to those of us that just want to get the job done." I love seeing he doesn't put on airs and that his workbenches and work areas look like most of ours.

[@dhansen57]

Great summary of Steve's expertise Steven! I agree!

[@pd417]

Exactly. Steve is an everyman's woodworker and he's just like the rest of us. He's like talking to your neighbor.

[@nicholascaldwell6079]

Leo Landi he’s saying Steve isn’t a snob or stuck up.

[@pt6134]

Picked up wood working as a hobby during covid 19. This is probably the best diy video I’ve watched! Great format and editing

[@shanecricket1350]

The pencil analogy about drilling vertically into the grain and causing unwanted separation was great! It made a lot a sense and helped me a lot thank you

[@melissamueller9884]

I’m a super beginner woodworker, and your videos are so helpful! I’ve never even used a drill until recently. Today I used the Kreg Pocket Hole Jig for the first time today and used this video as reference and it worked perfectly! Thank you so much for making videos that make sense to extreme beginners like me. You’re the best!

[@slixcyyy]

Just came across this channel...wow, this guy is good, great screen presence, awesome editing, no umms/ahhhs, not a single out-of-focus shot, and a Mystery Spot bumper sticker sighting...this is KZbin at its finest.

[@katwillz1027]

Here in 2024. Thank you for the most informative video for a beginner looking to find the balance between enjoying the process and just making the table. Lol! Subscribed!!

[@nigelgarnham1573]

This is the best pocket hole demonstration/information I’ve seen so far on KZbin. As a newbie I wanted to explore how the Jig works and what it can be used for so I found this video very useful. Thank you very much.

[@raymundomarroquin7105]

Thank you for the time you take to help and encourage others with your sense of humor, skills, and knowledge. San Antonio, TX

[@berniesr]

I've used pocket holes joinery for a while but still found your demo useful. Never hurts to go back to basics

[@sandrajeffrey944]

Thanks for a PROFESSIONAL video on this task! I hate 12 minute videos with 5 minutes of USABLE content! Bookmarked as I will want to review this video at least a few more times. Total novice with so much to learn but I'm motivated!

[@SteveRamsey]

+Sandra Jeffrey Thanks Sandra! Glad I can help.

[@Loren.C]

Sandra Jeffrey i agree. those videos you're like hey a little less talky and a bit more worky lol

[@daleburrell6273]

@@Loren.C "...talk is CHEAP- it takes MONEY to buy WHISKEY!!"

[@rithotyn]

Agreed. One of the reasons I watch all of Steve's videos.

[@MarcosElMalo2]

@@SteveRamsey Also, thanks for not shouting over heavy metal instrumentals and not being an intense Xtreeeem D-Bro. You know the type of videos I’m talking about? I love punk rock music videos a lot, punk rock woodworking videos not so much.

[@davecostello560]

I'm new to pocket hole joinery. This video has covered all the things I wasn't clear about. Thank you so much!

[@goossens2009]

Thank you for the video! With your help I was able to complete a project using Kreg for pocket hole joinery. Excellent instruction with comprehensive explanation for a person with no carpentry skills. Much appreciated…

[@Bflatsolo]

This is one of the better instructional videos I’ve ever watched on any topic.

[@garyduncan7129]

Your videos are so concise and well photographed. If I have to listen to a part more than once, it's pretty easy to backtrack and locate the spot without having to go through more info than needed. I compliment you, your camera person, and your sharp editing skills. I've always been a little intimidated by using jigs, but this makes it seem so easy. Thank you!

[@Dathanswick1]

the cut a way was a brilliant illustration. thanks for sharing. I have built a number and quick projects with my kreg jig and they have held up to my toddler just fine.

[@BecBec1967]

I know! I build custom cat furniture my grandkids claim as their's. My teenager also sits & climbs on them to play with the cat. So you know pocket hole journey is solid!

[@dottie3440]

Well done! For filling the holes I have always mixed sawdust (no shortage in any woodshop) with glue and fill them in, packing lightly, then sand them off. it's cheap, easy to do, and often provides a better match in color than those plugs. You'll have to play with your mix of glue to sawdust but that in itself makes a great little project, especially if you have young budding woodworkers around .....

[@davidcbeaudoin]

I can see this tutorial was posted eight years ago, but I recently started working on a project where pocket holes are my best option. Thank you for a clear and straightforward demo!

[@shrenikshah573]

Stumbled upon this video while searching for pocket hole joinery, and I am so glad I did. Steve did an excellent work on the video, especially the cross section showing the screw mechanism. Instantly became a fan because of his simple and friendly manner of explaining. Awesome job, Steve!

[@qsharkswim]

oh my gosh thank you. I read the instructions that came with the kreg and was lost. i drilled a hole right thru the bottom of the kreg. your instructions are WAY better. good for you.

[@clos5700]

I've had my Kreg jig for about ten years and today I learned something new about it. Thanks for an informative video.

[@kylelewis9377]

This 8 minute video just saved me hours of trial and error. Thank you so much!

[@coreygrua3271]

With this many subscribers, Ramsey has to be consistently excellent. He is. Plus, there is a practicality mixed with enthusiasm that certainly helps me. Bravo mere Steve!

[@alanmusicman3385]

Wow what a pleasure to find a complete, slick, informative, gimmick free video on this - so many superficially glossy or shambling or poorly lit videos about pocket joinery on KZbin. This one nails it perfectly. Thanks Steve.

[@heatherlaird-mcleod3271]

Hi Steve, I made my first wood frame yesterday, and it's all because of your video. Australia now stocks Kreg products so this made it easier to get the exact same one in your video. As a female, its refreshing to find that you don't big note your self like others and explain very simply what will work. As us Aussies would say, "good on ya mate" & thanks.

[@jackjensen5093]

Heather "Roberts your Uncle"! Is that right?? I have a friend who lives somewhere near you. He said that one like. Its Good!

[@heatherlaird-mcleod3271]

It's "Bob's your uncle" but I know what you mean.

[@marceaton3128]

They probably should sponsor you. I bought my Kreg pocket hole kit after watching you use yours. I also bought the clamp. Miters have never been my specialty so the pocket hole has been a life saver with table tops or face frames. Norm had a very fancy pocket hold machine. Another nice thing is you can get away with no glue so if you want to take something apart later you can. I have even combined them with using biscuits when joining a table top together, no glue needed and the table can move with the weather. Take care Steve and thanks for all the videos.

[@NickD511]

just did the same as well

[@randallriley9320]

Great tutorial. Clear and concise. Top notch teaching! Now I really feel like I know where the pocket hole fits in on woodworking projects. I wish I could give you 2 thumbs up.

[@ddavis6453]

I have had a Kreg Jig for 2yrs...I have never understood how to use it.....Thank you for taking the time to make and post this video. I am going to use this (easy to understad) information on a project this weekend!! Thank you again!!

[@JustMeValerie6]

Thanks to your video I took my Kreg jig out of the package and am about to use it...with confidence! Much appreciated. 😃

[@trcmf]

I love the Kreg Jig system. I use it almost every time I build something. Oh, and the driver that comes with the Kreg Jig is called a Robertson. The best type of driver ever.

[@MarcenariaAmadora]

Thanks Steve, defenely this is the best video ever about pocket hole joints. Cheers

[@rodw]

Do you really have to use special screws or can you usea normal screw as long as it has a shoulder on it

[@jackknecht2783]

Marcenaria Amadora v

[@Pearsonca145]

@@rodw It absolutely cannot have an angle on the head and needs the 90 degree shoulder. A normal screw with a 45 or so degree bevel type head will split the wood.

[@robertc.6441]

What's your opinion on the flat jig, the more basic type?

[@angiesmith3183]

I agree!

[@khaunani]

You explain things very well, and I appreciate that you give examples. Thank you!

[@defconone1498]

Thank you! I'm a total beginner and I would have done it all wrong without your expert guidance. I'm now confident that my patio gates I'll build will be solid.

[@morrismurray3621]

Bought a pocket hole jig and used it for the first time today (after 50 years of hobby woodworking). Thanks for the video, it made it all obvious. Wow, what a strong joint!

[@aadsideas]

Nice! First time user here. Short but comprehensive video about pocket hole jig. Thank you. Shalom

[@gordonparr3433]

Nature or nurture? What an incredibly clear and informative, easy paced presentation. One of the best I think I've ever seen, and sadly I think I've seen too many that are not a scratch on this. Well done Steve Ramsey

[@LifeSurfingDude]

thank you Steve for putting it together. I was looking for a nice video explaining pocket holes and you just nailed it for me. very clear, educational. wonderful teacher you are, Sir!

[@Nikkinik4]

Oh my goodness thank you!!! I've been following some DIYer and they swear by the Kreg jig buuuuuut never explain how to use it. You saved me!

[@jcpworkshop]

Great tutorial video!Dad was a custom cabinet builder so the thought of using this device sort of felt like cheating. He actually talked me into getting one a few years ago, and I finally used it last week on some shop furniture. I learned a few tips thanks to your video! Thanks!

[@chemistNATE]

Absolutely excellent tutorial. Well done.

[@mofeng8244]

rgl.sgre.sadg

[@woodworkabbott4678]

since watching your channel I have finally bought myself a pocket hole jig :)

[@naztubes]

Having built my first ever desk last year by drilling in to the end grains, I can definitely testify to how weak the joins are and did in fact experience some splitting. I'm building a couple of toy boxes this year and going to attempt it with a jig. Thanks for this excellent overview 👍

[@adrienneskala3876]

Finally! A tutorial that explains pocket holes without confusing the novice builder. Informative snd entertaining. My hero!

[@ADHTube]

Hi Steve. I’m Al. I’m a 61 year old videographer who also retired from the USPS as a letter carrier in 2020. Although, I thought that it would be smooth sailing as I looked to continue my KZbin channel, get my unmanned aircraft license and rediscover life after retirement, the pandemic has kind of made me step back and rethink a few things. Today, I came across your video and something that I hadn’t felt since shop class in high school came back. The calm and satisfaction of carpentry and woodworking. I saw tv ads about the Kreg tools and pretty much didn’t think too much about it until this past year. The open of your video addressing the rest of us who just want to make stuff and feel the satisfaction of its completion, made me feel like THIS is what I REALLY want to do. Not saying that everything else will fall by the wayside but this will most likely be the most satisfying. Looking forward to adding the Kreg system to my Christmas list this year Lord-willing. Hopefully, my wife won’t think I’m bonkers 😂. Thanks man and keep it coming! 👍🏾

[@askellchaos]

"Making things is fun and enjoyable no matter how you approach it." Best line ever.

[@tonys.8810]

Great video! Thank you, I love your simple teaching style. Straight to the point without too many big words, perfect for this newbie to easily follow along.

[@MaherSHoque]

Thanks for this tutorial. I've been resisting buying a pocket hole jig since I just got in to woodworking and don't wanna go too fast too soon. But... I'll prolly get one this weekend.

[@LaiaBertran]

I'm planning to make a console and this is the first time I heard about this pocket hole thing. I'm crafty but a newbie in woodworking. I want to learn a lot, there's so much I can build. Thanks for your video.

[@micklatham3425]

Been woodworking for about 40 years now,used pocket holes for the first time last week. I'm quite impressed. As you say.they aren't for everyone or every job.but I'm finding them really useful. Bought my own pocket hole jig yesterday. Being delivered today. Really looking forward to playing with it.😁

[@willettadoucet1794]

Hello Steve, I find your video's clear, concise, and fascinating! You have inspired me to look deeper into weekend projects , in which I usually have my husband complete. I am going to buy a joinery, and have plans on making a small shop inside of the garage! Thanks again

[@VistaPanoramicabyLello]

Hi there... First of all thanks for all your videos... Id just began woodworking as a hobby, not a lot of time beeing an airline captain but at least once a week Im in my brand new workshop... Your videos are helping a lottttt... When Im in the hotels Im always here on youtube browsing woodworking videos and Im a big fan of your channel and also jay bates, spagnolo etc etc... Well... Thats it... If you ever come to Brazil come visit... As we say here... Minha casa é a sua casa... My house is your house... Best Regards

[@VistaPanoramicabyLello]

+Steve Ramsey beeing completely honest... Not a lot to see here... Yes we have nice beaches but as do you... I dont have a way to say something about brazil to you without cursing hahahahahaha... But as I said... If you decide to come someday....

[@henriqueblanck8883]

+Marcello Biffignandi Eita complexo de vira lata!

[@VistaPanoramicabyLello]

+Henrique Blanck?!? So nao vivo no pais de Alice... So isso... Esse pais eh uma piada... Uma M|~&@...

[@VistaPanoramicabyLello]

+Henrique Blanck e pior ainda é o povinho...

[@MachadoMadeiras]

Been an Airline Captain, I suppose you have more resources than others, so, the country is fine for 'A' class. It is a problem with people and poverty, I can confirm that but Brazil is a very nice place to live and yes, we have a lot of beutiful places to visit.

[@markchadwick77]

I was making a wide board for a table top, gluing multiple boards together side-by-side. Because I didn't have enough clamps of that length, I used pocket holes instead for holding the boards together. After the glue dried, I removed the screws so I could reuse them. It's a much cheaper solution than buying expensive clamps. Also, I didn't have to worry about the boards sliding while the glue dried.

[@priayief]

Great tip! Thanks!

[@apatterson8128]

I'm two years late to the party. Lol. I always wanted to try that, however, the clamps were the issue. Just bought the K4 and I think I'm going to try it. Thank you for the great suggestion.

[@billdasher3116]

The best and most concise tutorial on the Kreg system I've seen. Saved me a lot of time and mistakes! I'm now ready to go.

[@luckyhiker3434]

Hey Steve, great instructional vid! No, muss, no fluff & just the right amount of instruction to set a guy off in the right direction without a bunch of further study.

[@212x3]

Just starting on "finish carpentry" and I gotta say, this video helped me understand what this tool does and how to use it. thanks.

[@tonymengela]

A little tip,, use wood glue with screws and its lock tight for glue and stay good from vibration and movement for much longer time

[@gnarthdarkanen7464]

Maybe it's for the "beginners' forum" space... BUT I'm kind of surprised nobody has added here, that wet glue is a pretty nice "lubricant" for lengthy screws into wood, too. ;o)

[@mmmuck]

I've heard it's better to wipe off excess glue after it has hardened. This is to avoid issue with thin glue residue & staining. Can anyone confirm that?

[@MikeJuntaman]

@@mmmuck The technique is to let the glue harden just enough to scrape it off with a chisel, maybe 10 20 minutes depending on your glue and the air. I do this a lot works great. If you wait too long say overnight you will hate yourself for it. I also wipe glue off without an issue just make sure to get it all!

[@leslieesparza4697]

Wow. This was an INCREDIBLY helpful and well made video. I love how you gave very practical tips (seriously everything I've been wanting to know) in very quick bits. THANK YOU!!!

[@otisore]

Finally! After watching a half dozen other videos on pocket holes I found this one, which was informative and covered all the basics. Thank you very much from this beginner woodworker!

[@RobDucharme]

Super helpful. Proof that just because you buy a tool doesn't mean you know how to use it. I haven't actually bought this type of jig yet but at least now, when I DO buy one, I won't go into it blind and stupid. Granted, I DO watch videos on how these tools are used, but knowing me I would at least muck around and make needless mistakes first. I watch guys like John Malecki and his crew do it like it's just a mundane task, but there's more to it than that (they simply don't make it seem that way). This video resets my mindset that I can do this stuff, but I need to make sure I pay attention to someone who KNOWS what they're doing demonstrates the do's and do not's.

[@lpswoodworking623]

This is an excellent demo. If I worked for Kreg, I'd send you a crate of free stuff. Shame on them if they haven't even acknowledged at the very least.

[@FlushtheSystem]

Exactly, You know at least (1) Kreg employee has watched this and probably talked about it with many others at work. Has to have happened!! Sucks that corporations care that little about the consumer. Who am I kidding?? They don't care at all really. Just keep consuming you sheep....

[@throwachair]

your face when you even had to mention the 'impact driver' priceless, I think they are brutal too, great video

[@mauritsvw]

Of course, you can just disable the impact function of the drill.

[@abs0lutezer007]

Variable speed works great.

[@thecaravan1]

It's only America that considers the impact driver a joinery tool, the rest of the world just uses them for car wheel nuts.

[@dstnjtimkhhundybhy4954]

@@mauritsvw how ???

[@mauritsvw]

@@dstnjtimkhhundybhy4954 Sorry, I now realize this is probably an impact only tool. I usually use the hammer function of an ordinary electric screw driver, which can be turned off.

[@schmojo33]

This is well done and I liked this better than what Kreg had on their website.

[@letmework6254]

+Joe Hanson and Steve; ;I agree completely. I have been using this joinery for several years and I learned more from your tutorial today than I have learned from any other source or experience. Thanks so much!

[@PaellaPeteUK]

Never used them before.. just ordered a jig. Feel much more confident after watching the really clear explanation in the video. Thanks so much.

[@jamessharier7529]

I received a Keegan pocket hole jig for a retirement gift, and thanks to your video I’m breaking it out of mothballs and finally using it.

[@thediydude]

Nobody ever explains how to kreg 2 different thicknesses of wood like 2x4 to 3/4" plywood table top

[@skampp]

Same. So I did some playing. Adjust the height of the jig to the height of board 1 (the one that I'll drill the pocket hole into). Then put the bit into the jig, loosen the collet, let the bit drop to the bottom, the raise it up 1/8" and tighten the collet. For the screw size, I use the size of the board that I'm attaching to, board 2, NOT the board I'm drilling the pocket hole into. Probably should be common sense, but the older I get the more I have to study something. Side note, I'm not sure if I'd use a pocket hole on plywood. Maybe it's okay, just doesn't seem like it would hold up.

[@pilot9611]

​@@skampptt Thanks mate

[@jacksonhawk4021]

Glad that I finally found someone like me that I can relate to. Well, someone that knows what they are doing and I can relate to. Thanks for the wonderful video.

[@stephenchavez1]

lots of good info. Like the proper way to screw into wood "meat" and the end grain issue that i found to be weak. Thanks!

[@bjhennessey]

I totally agree with our comment. Using the jig, drilling the hole, and driving the screw is easy. What's critical is deciding the direction of the screw (through an end grain instead of into one (when necessary)) and clamping of the pieces while screwing. Trial and error on my part.

[@amandathomas8844]

This is such a helpful guide for someone who has never built stuff before and has been confused about the jig. Great explanations for how and why to do things!

[@rossgravelle9930]

Thank you for the pocket jig tutorial. I am a Canadian and I have watched your show a lot. I just purchased the Kregg jig

[@pamelahallissey20]

I'm just starting in some wood projects and ran across this video--can't wait to see more of your videos! You really speak to the beginner.

[@septimuspretorius250]

Steve: you are “the man”! I enjoy your videos and Have been a subscriber for about six months now. I learned so much about pocket joinery from your video. Thanks for posting and please, keep up the good work.

[@jamezason]

Thanks Steve, you’re an incredible teacher!

[@richardwedlich1021]

Great lesson. He wasted no time and got right to the fundamentals. Thanks.

[@danmclellan1088]

I just built a nice stereo cabinet with my Kreg jig It made it so much easier. I wish I could add a picture.Thanks for the video!

[@CarolinaGirlCreationZ]

Ohhhhh my gosh! I'm so late to the game on here but I'm SOOOOOO glad I found our channel! I'm just now getting into woodworking after growing up watching my dad in his home based wood shop. This video is beyond helpful!!! New subscriber even though I'm late to the game. I've added the Kreg K4MS Jig Master system to my wish list! I will so buy it myself if I don't get it before spring Gotta get my first chicken run done so i think it would be sooooo useful! :-P

[@MonaKempton-dz5bz]

Heather H - my dad had a work shop also as he built home for a living .. I’m also late to the game, I should of learned all I could from my dad before he passed.. however I’m learning now .. good luck Heather..

[@CarolinaGirlCreationZ]

@@MonaKempton-dz5bz good luck to you too! It's so fun! Can't wait until I'm done with my chicken coop so I can start trying to build some furniture! Have fun! :)

[@MakeSomething]

Really well explained! And a great job with the intro to keep the pocket hole dislikers at bay.

[@RookieMistakes0607]

+Make Something Hey David. I personally dislike them as I see them as a handyman method as opposed to genuine woodworking. (Also taking into account I am a novice that learns a lot off of youtube and see this as something that would hamper my learning experience lol) Also, love your podcast and channel bro :)

[@scottverge938]

+RookieMistakes0607 Sometimes you have to just get stuff done and not get caught up making joints that are overly complicated and strong for the application at hand.

[@RookieMistakes0607]

I get that, and would agree to a certain extent, but at the same time personally I would prefer to take that bit longer on a proper M&T joint and know it will last the test of time than shortcut with a pocket hole joint. Personal preference. I know some would be happy with PHJ, but each to their own lol

[@RookieMistakes0607]

***** pfft well thanks for ignoring me and scott! ;) :D

[@RookieMistakes0607]

Haha its all good lol :D I'll sfill witch your vids (sans pocket screws ;) :D )

[@ChrisBreemer]

Very professional and informative, thanks a lot ! Even though I'm not such an avid woodworker I enjoyed this and learned from it.

[@mrsbleezzy658]

Thank you so very much!! I could not grasp what all the hype was for making this type of joint. Extremely well explained, and even better visual explanation. Thanks again

[@misterlarryb]

Excellent, Steve, very helpful! LOL - "... you know, this thing that you probably never use and maybe you didn't even know what it was for..." Yup, that happens to me often enough with MANY things in life to keep me humble! Excellent explanation of the "sometimes fine but not the strongest" screwing into end grain. As a beginner DIYer, you've made me aware and got me thinking about end grain strength when I plan a project now. I'm also thinking about this when I watch other videos and see screws going into end grain, but without any explanation as to why or whether joint strength is not as critical in their applications. Learned something else at 6:48 - "Be aware of the direction your screws are going..." I thought the priority was to hide the pocket screws, so now I will consider which is more important - a less visible or hidden pocket screw or a stronger joint. If I'm also gluing the joint, then the pocket screws are acting more like clamps and long-term strength is less of a concern, as long as it's initially strong enough to hold the joint while the glue sets up. But if I'm using the pocket screws alone (without glue) so I can disassemble the joint in the future, then strength will be more important than visibility. Whew! So much great food for thought! Thanks again! (Added about a month later) Steve, any thoughts on how straight the Kreg screws are? When I put the Kreg square drive in my drill/driver and spin it, it seems spot on. But when I put a screw on the end and slowly spin it, it seems to wobble. The threads seem bent from the screw head, and seem to rotate very out of line. I guess this could be an illusion, or could be the result of my not-so-true drill/driver chuck spinning out of line as well? Illusion or not, this definitely gives more reason for clamping the joint while screwing it together. Thoughts on seemingly bent screws?

[@ginab.7729]

Wow! Thank you! You’re a fantastic teacher.

[@JanetDiaz6152]

Thank you Thank you . You explain it very well.. I was wondering how the heck i use my Kreg jig . The correct way..

[@ronh9384]

Janet Diaz De Valentin Janet what state are you in? Find a local Woodcraft or Rockler store, woodworkers club or Makers Space and they would be more than happy to show you how to use it if you need assistance. Or if you already know how to use it but have questions on hardware or any other topic I’m sure they would be happy to assist. Most places these days are helpful to men and women without being a crank about it.... And there is always KZbin! Good luck. Ron

[@JonPetersArtHome]

Good stuff Steve

[@algallego]

Yes, he has some great videos. Long time watcher... not sure exactly when I subscribed... a while back I think or recent... there's so many great woodworking channels on here! Steve is very practical and doesn't get carried away trying to make a shop for Lamborghini woodworkers! I'm okay with the old-fashioned pedal car style of work-- simple, practical, effective, functional, utilitarian-- not the kind of guy who goes for the fancy lipstick on an expensive Italian female prima donna who won't let you touch or put your pieces to use once they go into her museum of a house after she's demanded Gianni Arosio level woodcrafts from you!

[@tammyvanroon7386]

Thank you!! I haven't built furniture in a long while and am working on a huge project, using a pocket screw jig for the first time. It arrived with no instructions....your video is easy to follow and understand. :D

[@robintuck6249]

Perfect video for newbies. Excellent job explaining and providing examples of right and wrong ways. Thank you.

[@Rickmakes]

Not sure if you mentioned that the screws are self tapping. This is why the stepped bit shouldn't drill all the way through to the end of the board and you don't need to drill the mating piece. Great job on this video!

[@doveoo5]

+RickMakes This is important info. Thanks!

[@summerswoodworking]

This is a great video! It's too bad Kreg isn't a sponsor of yours. You use many of their products, and show many people how to use them. I always thought if your channel was big enough that's what these companies wanted before they would. So, the question is why not Kreg?

[@jaredhammonds8255]

The fact that Kreg isn't a sponsor is actually a great thing in a way. He has absolutely no reason to say good things about a product that's not paying him to say those things.

[@Wordsnwood]

My kreg jig has a guide/scale for setting the collar on the drill bit. I've never seen your way of setting it. Works, though!

[@bigfatbill5187]

+Wordsnwood (Art Mulder) You're right. You should always use the jig for setting the depth. The way Steve shows above will leave very little wood between the screw head and the end of the board. When you are using 2x4 lumber and 2-1/2" screws, the bit should be much higher off the surface.

[@IMRROcom]

+Wordsnwood (Art Mulder) mine is the same too. Might be the model he has or he could have an older one.

[@g.work.specials6859]

+IMRROcom steve has the newest one, the k5. it comes with a depth stop to set it, but apparently he doesn't use it.

[@BecBec1967]

It also makes sure you've set it right, not too long (going through the wood) or too short, on the drill bit collar.

[@stephendall2329]

Just finished watching this tutorial for the 3rd time, This is best pocket hole video that I have found. Thank you,

[@timcarroll4577]

Just bought k4 and yours is the first video I watched and found it very helpful I am a newbie carpenter and love this krag jig look forward to next video thankx Tim c Australia

[@yushikuang7877]

No special skills and experience. That’s me, the girl who want to make custom windows insert. Of course, i can ask my husband and he will use it as an excuse to not finish the family’s room. But i can handle that...let’s give a try. Thank you for all the tips and clear explanations.

[@DavidBishopinc]

Too bad Kreg didn't sponsor. That was a great explanation.

[@ramiroalvarado2380]

+David Bishop, I agree!!!

[@JustMakeIt]

There's a lot of unnecessary snobbery against pocket holes, but they have a place no matter what your skill level is. Not everything needs to be mortise and tenon or dove tails, but if that's your thing, then fill your boots.

[@Cactusworkshopchannel]

+Just Make It well said!!

[@MrGr8golf]

+Just Make It ...I agree. Unnecessary snobbery. I also like your 'fill your boots'.

[@73Tracker73]

Exactly, not everything needs to be furniture grade. I'm making furniture for my dogs out of cheap pine and painted over. My dogs don't mind if I use pocket hole joinery since it's sturdy and does the job. If I ever build some furniture for me, with quality woods, maybe I'll figure out dovetails, etc. Great video, I have a different kreg jig, which doesn't mount, but most of it still applies. *Subscribed to your channel!*

[@venusboys3]

Doh! This just saved me a bunch of trouble... I was about to join some boards with pocket holes on the inside of the angle... which this video demonstrated as being the weaker join. I'm so glad I watched this before doing that.

[@joabt5071]

My hubby bought me this jig for my birthday and I’m really excited to use it. Your video really helped me understand how it works 👍