Making repairs with the Kreg

[Don Clark]

I just purchased a Kreg and have been trying to figure out to break it in, so to speak.  Rather than jump in to a huge project I was thinking about using it to do some repairs to some furniture around the house.  In particular, we have a dresser/changing table from Storkcraft that got knocked out of square during our last move (I am in the Navy...so its a hazard of the job).  It is made of either 1/2" melamine or particle board (I have to check which for sure) and held together with cam-locks and dowels. I think all it really needs is to have the joints tightened up as the cams just don't cut it.

So my questions are...Is this a good use for the Kreg?  Do I disassemble the furniture and rebuild it with the jig or repair it still assembled?  What do I do with the couple of pieces that are around 2" wide and connected only with dowels?

Any input is appreciated...

As an aside to the Kreg Reps, I wanted to tell you what a great job you have done on the videos both on the DVD and also YouTube.  I have learned quite a few basic woodworking tips just from watching those videos that have solved many of the "little issues" that I have struggled with in the few projects that I have done up to this point. 

[KregRep]

Don,
I'm sure several members will have some input on this issue... here are my thoughts, just to get the conversation started... this is actually a GREAT application for the Kreg Jig... especially for those just getting started with the tool/technique. Personally, I would avoid taking the entire piece of furniture apart if at all possible. Simply remove the Drill Guide from the jig itself clamp or screw it into place, and drill your holes. Make sure to use short coarse-thread screws with a light chuck setting to ensure that you don't spin out the screws, and tighten away!

It may be wise to loosen the cam locks first so that they don't prevent the two workpieces from coming together. If your stock is extraordinarily thin, you might want to check out the Micro-Pocket Drill Guide which works even better with 1/2" material.

Add as many Pocket-Holes as is necessary to bring the joint tight and secure. Here is a bit more information found in our SkillBuilder DVD if you haven't already seen it:


Good luck, and good woodworking!

[Don Clark]

Finally got the chance to make the repairs, and I LOVE the results. The dresser is rock solid and I learned quite a bit about the jig in the process. Now on to the next project! (whatever it may be)