Crafting a wood dowel may seem complicated, but with a smart woodworking hack, it can be done at home without the need for specialized tools. Bob Beacham, Onions Australia’s expert carpenter and remodeler, shared exclusive tips on how to make your own wood dowels using simple materials like sheet metal and a drill.
To create your dowels, you’ll need a piece of ⅛-inch steel plate, a drill bit matching the desired dowel size, and some wood stock. By drilling a hole in the steel plate and using it as a guide, you can extrude rectangular wood strips into round dowels easily.
Expert tips to make your DIY wood dowels
Start your DIY dowel project by cutting wood strips to fit in your drill chuck and pushing them through the metal jig’s cutting hole. Bob Beacham recommends using a push stick when cutting thin strips with a table saw and emphasizes the importance of a steady approach while drilling.
Are DIY dowels really worth the effort?
While making your own dowels can be efficient for experienced woodworkers, beginners may find it challenging due to the tools required. However, making your own dowels can be worthwhile if you need specific types of wood that are rare to find in stores, ensuring a perfect match for your project.
