Brian Harrell gave a demonstration on the use of the Kreg jig for pocket hole joinery in a variety of applications.

Harrell first assembled a temporary workbench and then showed the key components of the Kreg jig -- a special two-stepped square drive bit, two different length drive extensions, a bench-mounted jig to hold the workpieces in alignment and ensure the hole is drilled at the correct angle, and several other clamps, similar to vise grips, for holding workpieces in alignment. Harrell has his jig mounted on a portable box containing a drawer for acessories.
The key to pocket hole joinery is in drillinga very shallow angle hole (the pocket) in one of the pieces to be joined, then driving a self-tapping screw through the pocket into the receiving piece. Pocket hole joinery is simple, fast, and the joints are very strong. Harrell said that because bits are only about $6 each, it is usually easier to buy new ones then send off the dull ones to be sharpened.

Harrell then showed the steps used in making cabinet face frames, using both the bench-mounted jig and the clamps. He prefers to also use glue as add further strength. He cautioned workers to use a low clutch setting on their power drills to avoid spinning the screws and destroying the joint. Although pocket holes are generally placed where they cannot be seen, the holes can be filled with specially-shaped dowels and sanded.
Kreg jigs, screws, and accessories are available at Loews, and for online information you may visit the Kreg website.

Bob Satterlee demonstrated his favorite methods for sharpening woodworking tools.

• He first uses the side wheel of a grinder reduce large defects (knicks) in the tool. He recommends white, not grey, grinding wheels.
• Next he a series of three or more sandpapers fastened to a block of wood using double stick tape with the final grit sandpaper of 220 grit. Finer grit can be used, but he has not found it to be necessary.
• The angle of the sharpening is important, and although it can be ‘eyeballed,’ he prefers using a jig, as shown in the photos above.
• It is Important to sharpen with straight strokes without rocking
• After successive sharpening on the sandpapers, the back is then flattened.

Thanks to Brian and Bob for sharing their ideas and knowledge in these two key areas of woodworking!

Guild dues ($10 per year) may be given to Treasurer Brian Rowan at the next meeting or mailed to him at 347 Red Maple Drive, Mandeville, LA 70448.