PLEASE HELP!

[david almond]

Two questions. First, I am brand new to woodworking, and my measurements seem to be off. I am using 2x4's and each time i measure, they are 1.5". i set my Kreg Jr and drill bit to 1.5 (1 1/2), but my pocket holes never seem to make it through the end of the wood. any suggestions for me? also, i need to purchase screws in bulk for my projects. anyone know of any good websites?

[KregRep]

David,
Phillip is exactly right. All of your settings are correct, using the 1-1/2" markings on the jig and on the drill bit. Your drill bit should not exit the end of the 2x4 when properly setup. It should stop just short of exiting the workpiece. This is important for several reasons, which I won't get into here... just know that you are doing everything right so far!

As for your screws, Amazon sells Kreg screws in bulk packages. As do many Kreg retailers including Rockler, Woodcraft, and many more which you can find through our dealer locator.

[Dan F.]

Phillip is correct with everything but your screw selection. With 2X4's you will want to use 2 1/2" long screws.

[John]

Try Amazon for the screws or go to Woodcraft as they have free shipping. A good general source for fasteners is http://www.mcfeelys.com/ and they also have Kreg.

In terms of the pocket hole - it is not supposed to go through the other side - it will go through when you make the connection or you can advance the screw so it just goes through the wood, which acts as a good way to hold the pieces steady.

In terms of the 2by4's - watch out when you build with them as they are not always square - you still need to joint and plane them 4 square.

Go to the http://thewoodwhisperer.com website for tips and videos on techniques.

[John]

I received an email today from Amazon that the Kreg screw assortment is on sale.

[Curt Barrett]

Hi dave
When you get your screws remember course are for softwood fine is for hard
also check on ebay
Phillip is right you dont want to go thru the wood or youll be drilling in the base of your kreg which would be a real bummer

[Larwyn]

Curt Barrett said:

Hi dave
When you get your screws remember course are for softwood fine is for hard
also check on ebay
Phillip is right you dont want to go thru the wood or youll be drilling in the base of your kreg which would be a real bummer

Actually I do have a couple of pilot holes in the base of my K2000. That's what happens when you reset the jig for 3/4" material but forget to reset the stop collar on the bit after joining 1 1/2" stuff........ It still functions fine and that was so long ago I had forgotten all about it till now.

[Joe]

Me to! put two holes in base today. Problem is I have been using the jigs prtably so much I forgot to se the right height . I suppose the kreg plastic is tough enough it wont matter, and it definately wont ever happen again.

KregRep said:

David,
Phillip is exactly right. All of your settings are correct, using the 1-1/2" markings on the jig and on the drill bit. Your drill bit should not exit the end of the 2x4 when properly setup. It should stop just short of exiting the workpiece. This is important for several reasons, which I won't get into here... just know that you are doing everything right so far!

As for your screws, Amazon sells Kreg screws in bulk packages. As do many Kreg retailers including Rockler, Woodcraft, and many more which you can find through our dealer locator.

[John]

Excellent point by James Waller, especially if you are flattening the top of the bench.

[Steve deshasier]

david....  check your drill bit . make sure your stop collar is set. deep enough. to buy screws in bulk go to your home centers. i buy all my kreg supplys from menards around 18.00 a box for 1 1/4 " course  good luck.

[patrick in memphis(collierville)]

lol  hi david yes a 2x4 is actually 1.5x3.5 actual dimensions when i use my kreg k3 set to 1.5 the hole does not completely go through the pocket holed piece alot of it has to do with where u put your stop collar on your bit . i prefer not to go all the way through. but instead bore the pocket hole clamp it then drive the screw otherwise small splinters come off the end of the pocket hole and then impede getting a tight fit( you have to drive the screw back it out then redrive it to eliminate that or clamp it)hope that helps feel free to email for further questions..patrick in memphis

[Chad Robbins]

Best place to buy pocket holes screws would have to be Custom Service Hardware. Awesome place to buy Hardware!!!

[John]

Just checked out the Custom Service Hardware - nice site and added it to my favorites.