Simple 90-Degree Drilling Jig
Make a small wooden guide to help keep your drill bit upright. A 3/4-inch corner notch provides two square guide faces. Use straight, square scrap wood such as ash, or a nominal pine 2x2.
Woodworking · Beginner · 15–30 minutes
Tools
- Table saw
- Square
- Drill and drill bit
- Miter saw
- Pencil and ruler
- Push blocks and suitable guards
- Clamps
- Sandpaper
Materials
- Straight, square scrap wood. Ash or a nominal pine 2x2 works.
Cut list
- Notched drill guide — 1 × 1-1/2 in x 1-1/2 in x 2 in Straight, square scrap wood (ash or pine)
Diagrams
Build steps
Prepare the stock
• Start with a 1½″ × 1½″ × 7½″ piece of scrap wood. Check that it is straight, free of cracks, and square on both faces. Mark the ¾″ × ¾″ corner notch before cutting. Keep the stock long for the table-saw cuts, using a longer piece if your setup requires it.
Cut the notch
• Cut a ¾″ × ¾″ notch along one corner using a safe table-saw setup with suitable guards and push blocks.
Cut to length
• Secure and support the notched stock, then cut a 2″ piece using the miter saw. Remove splinters without rounding the inside guide faces.
Use the jig
• Set the jig flat on your workpiece and position the drill bit against both inside faces. Clamp the jig clear of the bit and drill slowly. Replace the jig if the guide faces wear.
Safety notes
- Wear eye protection and keep hands clear of blades and the drill bit.
- Read the entire project plan and confirm all measurements, material sizes, and tool setups before beginning any cuts or assembly.
- Always follow manufacturer safety instructions and use proper safety equipment such as push sticks, guards, clamps, and stable work supports.
- Never operate tools while fatigued, distracted, or under the influence, and seek supervision or assistance when using unfamiliar tools or techniques.
- MakerMind provides informational project guidance only; users are responsible for safe tool operation, verifying measurements, and maintaining a safe workshop environment.
Common mistakes to avoid
Cutting the notch after shortening the block
Why it happens: The stock is cut to its finished 2-inch length before notching.
How to avoid: Cut the notch while the stock is still long. Use longer stock if your safe table-saw setup requires it, then cut the jig to its finished length.
Guide faces out of square
Why it happens: The stock or saw setup is not square, leaving inaccurate guide faces.
How to avoid: Check the stock and notch with a square. Keep both inside faces straight and perpendicular to the flat base.
Forcing the bit against the guide
Why it happens: Side pressure makes the rotating bit cut into the wooden guide.
How to avoid: Clamp the jig clear of the bit, maintain light contact with both guide faces, and drill slowly. Replace the jig if the faces become worn or damaged.
Finishing suggestions
- Leave unfinished. Remove splinters without rounding the inside guide faces.