If you’re working on a major project that requires putting screws into wood, you may fear splitting the wood. But you can prevent it if you do it properly.
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So, how do you easily drive a screw into wood? Many woodworkers suggest drilling a pilot hole before drilling the hole you need. The pilot hole will allow the threads of the screws to cut into the walls rather than force the walls apart. This will help create a stronger connection. It will also help the screw to drive in perfectly straight.
If you think this will help you out, start by choosing a drill bit that’s the same diameter or a little bit less than the shank of the miniature screws, tiny screws, or micro screws you’re planning on using. Use your drill to help bore into the wood as far as the lengths of the screw. Press the side of the drill bit you chose against your finger to keep it going in straight and to prevent it from wandering. Then, slowly squeeze the trigger to get started. You don’t need to use a lot of pressure or weight on the drill, so let it do its job. Be careful to not let it come out of the other side of the wood, though. Keep the drill bit spinning as you pull it out.
After drilling a pilot hole, you can then start screwing your main screw into the wood. To give your project a professional look, use a countersink to add a beveled recess into the surface of the wood. That beveled recess will be home to the head of the screw. It should fit in there perfectly.
The concept of the screw dates back to around 200 B.C. They’re used for many different things and should be used properly. The biggest mistake you can make when drilling a screw is to let the driver slip out of the head and travel all over the place. Do what you can to keep it aligned with the screw. You can guide it in with your finger or go really slow with the drill. By taking your time and drilling a pilot hole, you’ll be able to successfully drill micro screws into wood without splitting.