DIY Pocket Hole Jig (Easiest Way Possible)

The absolute easiest way to make your own pocket hole jig is to borrow one from a friend and build it using this method. This is super simple, cheap, and can be built very quickly. Be sure to check out the video if you need help along the way!

Supplies

1x2s (preferably hardwood) 2pcs 12” long
3/8” ID and 1/2” OD steel pipe 1pc 12” long
Epoxy

Step 1: Find Two 1x2s at Least 12” Long

I recommend using hardwood for this, but I’m sure pine would work.

I made mine out of some oak and walnut I had lying around.

I recommend using oak if you have it.

Step 2: Set Up Your Pocket Hole Jig

Removed the stop block from the pocket hole bit (or just use a normal 3/8” drill bit)

Then set the pocket hole jig for 3/4” material

Step 3: Drill 2 Pocket Holes

Clamp your pocket hole jig onto one of the 1x2s and drill two pocket holes in one side of ONE of these pieces.
Take your time and make sure your bit goes into the wood nice and straight.
Also, you DO want to drill all the way through the material.

Step 4: Cut the 1x2 Without Pocket Holes to 6” Long

Step 5: Cut the 1x2 WITH Pocket Holes

Cut it FLUSH with the back edge of your pocket holes

Step 6: Glue the Two Pieces Together

Use wood glue to attach these pieces.
The small piece with pocket holes should be on top.
The side with holes should be flush with the side of the 6” pieces

Step 7: Clamp It Down and Drill Through the Longer Board

Once it dries:
Clamp the pocket hole jig down and follow the two original pocket holes through the bottom of BOTH boards with a 3/8” drill bit.

Step 8: Make the Holes Larger Using a 1/2” Drill Bit.

Step 9: Install Your Metal Pipe

Install your 3/8” ID/ 1/2” OD metal pipe inside of one of the pocket holes.

It should be flush with the inside edge of your pocket holes on the bottom of the jig.

I used this pipe from Amazon (It’s about $15, but I will be using the rest of it to make a dowel joinery jig too)
(This is an affiliate link. I make money if you use this, but it doesn’t cost you extra)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01IRVK1D4/ref=a...

Step 10: Cut the Pipe Flush With the Front Edge of the Pocket Hole Jig

Then remove the cut piece

Step 11: Epoxy the Two Metal Rods Into Place

Use an epoxy to install the metal rod you just cut out and the leftover piece into the other pocket hole.
Once again, the edge of your pipe should be flush with the inside edge of your pocket holes on the bottom.

Then allow it to dry.

Here is the epoxy I used: (This is an affiliate link. I make money if you use this, but it doesn’t cost you extra)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001Z3C3AG/ref=a...