Sometimes a simple accessory can solve a frustrating problem in the shop. A socket can stand in for a drill depth stop, a dowel can help keep a pocket-hole joint aligned, and a vacuum splitter can make it easier to switch between sanders.
In this collection of Woodsmith Quick Tips, three readers share practical ideas for drilling, assembly, and dust collection.
1. Use a Socket as a Drill Depth Stop
Drilling a hole to a consistent depth is easier when you have a positive stop. But what if you don't have a depth collar or stop that fits the drill bit you're using?
Daniel Brandner of Eleva, Wisconsin, found a solution in his socket set.
He slips a metal socket over the drill bit so it acts as a depth stop. By adjusting how far the bit extends beyond the socket using the drill chuck, he can fine-tune the drilling depth.
When the socket contacts the workpiece, it provides a reference for how deep the bit has traveled.
It's a convenient alternative when the right depth stop isn't available.
Woodsmith Tip: Check that the socket fits the bit and remains clear of the chuck. Test the setup on scrap before drilling your project, and make sure the socket's contact surface won't mar the wood. The socket must not interfere with the drill bit's rotation or become loose during use.
Shop tip submitted by Daniel Brandner, Eleva, Wisconsin.
2. Keep Pocket-Hole Joints Aligned with a Dowel
Pocket-hole screws make assembly quick, but the workpieces can shift as the screws are driven. Keeping the mating pieces firmly butted together helps produce a better-fitting joint.
Dan Martin of Galena, Ohio, uses a dowel to help maintain alignment during assembly.
He positions a dowel through the pocket-hole pilot hole and clamps it in place. The dowel helps keep the workpieces butted together while he drives the pocket screws.
This gives him another way to hold the parts in position during assembly.
Woodsmith Tip: Choose a dowel that fits the pilot hole without forcing it, and make sure the clamp holds the workpieces securely. Remove the dowel and any temporary clamping arrangement as needed to complete the joint.
Shop tip submitted by Dan Martin, Galena, Ohio.
3. Connect Two Sanders to One Dust-Collection Vacuum
Switching between a random orbit sander and a detail sander can mean repeatedly disconnecting and reconnecting the dust-collection hose.
Mark Hopkins of Des Moines, Iowa, uses a splitter to make the changeover more convenient.
The splitter connects both his 5" sander and detail sander to the same automated vacuum. With both hoses connected, he can switch between the tools as needed without moving the main vacuum connection each time.
It's a useful setup for sanding projects that require both broad surface sanding and work in tighter areas.
Woodsmith Tip: Check that the splitter and hoses fit your tools and vacuum. If the setup allows airflow through both branches at once, close or block the unused branch when appropriate to maintain suction at the sander you're operating. Follow the vacuum and sander manufacturers' dust-extraction guidance.
Shop tip submitted by Mark Hopkins, Des Moines, Iowa.
Share Your Woodworking Tips with Woodsmith
Have a clever jig, shop-made accessory, or technique that makes woodworking easier? Woodsmith welcomes original tips from readers.
Visit SubmitWoodsmithTips.com to describe your idea and upload photos or drawings. You can also mail your tip to “Woodsmith Tips” at the editorial address listed in the magazine.
