Pocket Hole
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionA pocket hole is an angled hole drilled into one workpiece that accepts a self-tapping screw to join it to another piece. The hole is drilled at about 15 degrees with a stepped bit using a pocket-hole jig (Kreg is the dominant brand). The screw enters the angled hole, passes through the first board, and threads into the second board, pulling the joint tight. Pocket holes create strong joints without visible fasteners on the show face. Common uses: face frames, cabinet boxes, tabletop attachments, and right-angle joints where clamping is awkward.
Why It Matters
Pocket holes let you assemble face frames and cabinet boxes with just a drill and a jig. No dado blades, no biscuit joiners, no mortise-and-tenon layout. The joint is strong enough for furniture and cabinetry. The fastener is hidden on the back side. For production woodworking and on-site cabinetry, pocket holes cut assembly time dramatically.