3 Simple Woodworking Shop Tips That Make Life Easier
Some of the most useful woodworking shop tips don't require building a complicated jig or buying another expensive tool.
Sometimes all it takes is a simple formula, a better way to store an accessory, or a small modification to something you already own.
These three practical shop tips address everyday problems: identifying loose wood screws, storing sharpening waterstones, and keeping a pocket hole jig from slipping.
Each is easy to put to use in your own shop.
1. How to Identify Wood Screw Sizes
If you've been woodworking for a while, chances are you have a container filled with leftover screws from previous projects.
Having those extra fasteners is convenient, but identifying their sizes can be frustrating.
Fortunately, there's a simple formula that can help you estimate the gauge of common flat-head wood screws, including sizes from #6 through #14.
Start by measuring the diameter of the screw head in sixteenths of an inch.
Then use this formula:
Screw Size = (Head Diameter in 16ths × 2) − 2
For example, suppose the screw head measures 5/16" in diameter.
Multiply 5 × 2 to get 10.
Then subtract 2.
The result is 8, indicating an approximate #8 wood screw.
This shortcut is especially handy when sorting through a collection of older wood screws.
Keep in mind that screw head dimensions can vary by head style and manufacturer. For a more reliable identification, measure the outside diameter of the screw threads or use a screw gauge.
2. A Convenient Way to Store Sharpening Waterstones
If you regularly sharpen chisels and plane blades with waterstones, you know that getting the stones ready can take time.
Steve Kralicek of Omaha, Nebraska, shared a simple storage solution that keeps his soaking-type waterstones ready for use.
Instead of drying the stones and putting them away after every sharpening session, he stores them in a covered plastic container filled with water.
The lid helps keep shop dust and debris out of the water.
Steve also adds a small amount of bleach to discourage mold growth between water changes.
Important: Not all waterstones are designed for continuous soaking. Some modern stones can be damaged by prolonged immersion, and bleach may be unsuitable for certain stones or bonding materials. Check the manufacturer's storage recommendations before using this method.
For waterstones specifically designed for permanent soaking, a covered container can make daily sharpening more convenient.
3. Keep a Pocket Hole Jig from Slipping
A single-hole pocket hole jig is handy for making pocket screw joints, especially when working with smaller parts.
But one common frustration is keeping the jig from shifting while drilling.
Micah Schonberger of Snowmass, Colorado, came up with an easy solution.
He applied a strip of adhesive-backed sandpaper to the bottom of his pocket hole jig.
The abrasive surface adds friction between the jig and the workpiece, helping prevent the jig from sliding out of position.
It's a simple modification that requires only a small piece of sandpaper.
For best results, keep the abrasive clean and continue using the jig's recommended clamping method. The sandpaper improves grip but doesn't replace secure clamping.
Small Woodworking Tips That Make a Difference
You don't always need an elaborate solution to make your woodworking easier.
A quick screw-sizing shortcut can save time sorting through hardware. Properly storing compatible waterstones can make sharpening more convenient. And a small strip of sandpaper can improve the grip of a pocket hole jig.
These are the kinds of practical ideas that make everyday work in the shop a little easier.
And sometimes, the simplest shop tips are the ones you'll use most often.
