| Blog series by Don W | updated 684 days ago | 3 parts | 4964 reads | 7 comments total |
Part 1: 3-4-5 rule.
You want to square your project. Its to big or to small for a square. Maybe you can’t reach one corner to do a corner to corner comparison. Use the 3-4-5 rule. The rule state simply if one side of a triangle is 3 and the other side is 4, the diagonal measurement will be 5. This can be inches, feet, millimeters, miles, arms lengths, anything as long as they are all the same. Any set of numbers divisible by these will work. Need longer, double them for 6 – 8- 10. Use the ru...
Part 2: Threaded inserts? Really.
All of the projects and plans you see that use a threaded bolt for adjustment or tightening calls for inserts. I never have an insert when I need one and I’m not great for planning projects ahead of time. In most hardwood, just threading the wood will suffice. Choose a drill bit one size smaller than (about 1/16”) the size of the bolt or screw. If in doubt, go small (within reason). You can then thread as if you would any metal piece, but cutting oil isn’t required. Don&#...
Part 3: Pilot hole without a drill bit.
Can’t find a drill bit the right size for a pilot hole for your finish nails, just chuck up a nail. Using 6p finish nails, chuck up a 6p nail. Works every time.
