Techniques for Making a Square Hole in Wood

In most cases we are interested in making a hole in wood with a circular shape but in some cases we have to work on a square hole. Because in this way we can create interlocks and solid combinations with the material.

Certainly making a hole with four sides, and right angles of 90 degrees, is not simple. At least not like the canonical solution that allows you to complete the work simply by choosing a quality drill and a good drill bit.

Like the one with variable geometry Krino, perfect also for plastic. Sure, making a round hole in wood means putting into practice a series of precautions but the work is already outlined: how do you proceed when you need to make a square shape?

Draw the shape into the wood

The first step to make a square hole on a wooden board or plank: draw with a pencil the shape that you must follow. This gives you clear references with respect to the procedure. Meanwhile, make sure you have fixed the piece to work well. Ideally, it would be to leave a gap under the shape so as to have space for subsequent activities.

Make 4 holes at the corners

The next step to get the desired result: with a wood drill bit you must make 4 holes in the respective corners. The diagram you find here shows you exactly how you must proceed to start quality work.

This step must allow the shape to remain within the borders drawn with the pencil.

Therefore it is advisable to use a precision drill bit, not too large, but large enough to allow the insertion of the reciprocating saw blade (like the Ineco one) to perform the next point to make a square hole.

Join the 4 holes with a cut

Once you've made the holes you can proceed with the next step: choose a wood blade and mount it on the reciprocating saw. Use a steel blade HSS (high speed steel) suitable for this task, you can discover the best one on this post.

Or if you are working on a larger block, on a keyhole saw. These power tools have a fundamental advantage: they allow you to insert the blade into the hole and cut with precision. What's important, as anticipated, is to have space underneath to let the blade come out. Join the holes by cutting the wood, in the end the cube-shaped block will detach by itself and you'll have your square hole.

Clean the surface obtained

A work like this, even if performed with precision blades like those proposed by Krino, can leave steps and sides that need to be roughed out with an appropriate blade. Especially at the corners where you still have the shape of the hole. Consequently you can use files, rasps and sandpaper to refine corners and surfaces so as to have a perfect square hole. Remember that this technique can also be used to make square holes in plastic or in sheet metal that is easy to work. You just need to use suitable drill bits and blades.