Fine-Thread screws are the preferred choice for hardwoods - like cherry, maple, and oak - that are hard and dense. What does a self-tapping screw look like? Well, a self-tapping screw will have a little cut out at the tip of the screw – it almost looks like a microscopic router bit. This self-taping bit functions almost like a little router, as it cuts away the material, allowing the screw to get a good bite.

The next question to ask yourself is: What kind of wood you are using to build your project? Softwood, hardwood, or plywood? When you know that, you can choose the correct screw thread type — either coarse or fine thread. Germany’s Wolfcraft are famous for their quality woodworking tools. Their Undercover jig set is billed as the complete set for invisible fastenings. I’m inclined to agree with them, it’s a handy kit supplied in its own carry case that keeps everything organised and out of trouble. Even though it’s not necessary for a strong joint, it’s good insurance to spread a thin layer of wood glue over both surfaces before screwing them together. However, this is not the only characteristic – we go over several more in the sections below. Washer Head Screws The next question is: What kind of wood are you using to build your project? Softwood, hardwood, or plywood? This determines your thread type.Also, not all screws are equal between brands. Kreg screws that are only one inch in length might be cheaper than an alternative brand that is two inches in length. Therefore, make sure you are matching things up to get the best comparison. That’s what we will try to do today. When looking for an alternative to Kreg screws, one of the first things you should look for is a screw that is ‘self-tapping.” A self-tapping screw is on that does not need a pre-drilled hole. (these screws are sometimes known as self-drilling, however – there is a differencebetween the two). Stainless screws are designed for use in extreme environments that are exposed to moisture and corrosive elements. Coarse-Thread for Softwoods and Sheet Goods: Pine, Cedar, Fir, Spruce, Poplar, Aspen, Basswood, Butternut, Plywood, Particle Board, MDF, Melamine

Coarse-Thread screws are recommended for use with softwoods like cedar, pine, fir, etc. - as well as for sheet goods such as plywood and MDF - that are soft and not very dense.First, you can go with a completely different joint option, like a mortise and tenon joint. These joints don’t use any screws; however, they take some time and skill to use correctly. The important bits of the Kreg like drill guides, clamp etc are metal and the GRP bit of it hasn't ever been an issue. In fact if you make a slight error in setting and have the drill a touch too long its very forgiving as its not metal. It may come as a surprise to learn that the head of a screw plays an important role in your project’s outcome. There are many different styles of screw heads, and all of them serve a slightly different task. Creating a solid join between two pieces of timber with dowels and glue is an effective joinery method. But drilling accurate perpendicular holes is difficult without a guide like the Dübelprofi. It takes out all the guesswork when it comes to sizing as well.

With that said, if you’re looking for an alternative to the Kreg screws, you’ll need to start by looking for self-tapping screws. Third, consider buying a small quantity of each and then testing them on your specific project. Just because something is an alternative does not mean that it is the best alternative. By sampling several types of screws, you will decide which screw has the best performance for the best price. Conclusion The simple blue plastic device is straightforward enough to work out without needing any special instructions. This is fortunate because it’s not supplied with any. Another one of the best doweling jigs I’ve come across is the Yours Bath 41 piece woodworking kit. It’s just about as simple as drilling jigs come, but it gets the job done without costing you much money at all.