Expert: Jamie Yocono - 11/4/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi Jamie,

I’m a novice woodworker. I’m building a bookcase using ¾” oak plywood. I have all the lumber cut and need to attach the sides to the top and bottom pieces. I want to countersink the screws. I want to use a countersink with the attached drill bit. I don’t know what size to buy and also what size and length wood screws to use.
HELP!!!
Thanks, Bob


ANSWER: Bob,

If I were using 3/4" plywood, I would probably use a #8 or #10 screw x 2" long. Generally, you use a screw about three times the thickness of your material. Or - as some people say - choose a screw that will go 2/3s of it's length into the second piece of wood.

The Fuller countersinks are very nice use; I have the boxed set of five of them that comes everything you need. Here's a link to show you what I mean:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002LVUWJK/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=486539

Yes, I know that seems expensive, but it's the last set you'll ever have to buy for the rest of your life. The good thing about this set is that these countersinks drill a tapered hole that looks just like a screw is shaped. You can drill the pilot hole, the shank hole and the plug hole in one operation. All you need to do is drill, install your screw, and plug the hole. Oh - and this set gives you a set of plug cutters too, although they're a little cheesy for my taste.

Your other alternative is to buy just one countersink bit at Home Depot or Lowes, but Ive found their quality just isn't up to the Fuller brand.

Hope this helps, good luck building your bookcase. Write back if you need more help.

Jamie in Vegas


____________
Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com
My woodworking blog: www.wooditis.blogspot.com





---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Jamie,
Thanks for your prompt response. Your advice for the size of the screw is exactly what I needed, but I'm still confused as to what size countersink bit I need to buy. I'm probably going to buy just the one.
Bob

Answer
Bob,

You buy the countersink based on the size of the screw you're using. So if you buy #10 screws, you'll want to buy a #10 countersink. It should say the size right on the countersink packaging.

Hope this helps!

Jamie in Vegas


____________
Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com
My woodworking blog: www.wooditis.blogspot.com