A Simple Guide to Hiding Screws in Wood
If you prefer your project to look sleek and professional, then hiding the screws in the wooden surface can help you achieve this.
Exposed screw heads can ruin the beauty of the natural wood. Luckily, there are a few clever techniques to keep those screws neat and out of sight.
In this guide, we’ll walk through five easy ways to hide screws in wood like a pro for a seamless finish.
Choosing the Right Screws and Tools
The type of screw you choose, and the tools used to install them impact the durability and effectiveness of the screw-hiding techniques.
Wood screws are the best choice for woodworking projects. For outdoor projects, opt for decking screws. For a more seamless appearance, trim head screws are the best choice.
Then, gather the following materials:
- Drill with a countersink bit
- Plug cutters
- Chisel or flush cut saw
- Wood glue and sandpaper
- Pocket hole jig
- Wood filler
- Putty knife
5 Methods to Hide Screws in Wood
1. Countersinking Screws
Choose a countersink bit that is slightly larger than the head of the screw.
Then, drill a pilot hole into the surface using a drill bit that matches the diameter of the screw shaft. Once the hole has been drilled, switch to a countersink bit and gently drill down into the pilot hole to create a conical recess.
In order for the screw to sit flush with the surface, the depth of the countersink should match the height of the screw head. With the countersink in place, drive the screw into the pilot hole.
2. Using Wood Plugs
Wood plugs cover the screw head, providing a neat finish.
Start by drilling a pilot hole for the screw, followed by a countersink hole. This will create a recess where the screwhead can rest below the wood's surface.
Then, insert the screw into the pilot hole and drive it in until the head is seated securely in the recess. Add a small amount of wood glue to the sides of your wood plug and carefully insert the plug into the countersink hole. Once the glue has dried, use a flush-cut saw or a sharp chisel to trim the plug flush with the surface of the wood.
3. Applying Wood Filler
After screwing into the wood, a wood filler can be used to fill the countersink holes left behind for a smooth surface.
Once countersinking the screw, use a putty knife to scoop up the wood filler and press it firmly into the screw hole. Spread the filler evenly and apply it slightly above the surface to allow for sanding later.
Allow the filler to dry, then use fine-grit sandpaper (220 or higher) to sand the surface down until it’s smooth and flush with the surrounding wood.
4. Pocket Holes
A pocket hole jig helps you drill angled holes precisely and consistently.
Using the manufacturer's guidelines, secure your jig to the workpiece. Then, using a specialised drill bit that comes with the pocket jig, drill angled holes into the wood.
Typically, the bit features a step design that allows it to drill two holes: one larger for the screw head and one smaller for the screw tip.
After drilling the pocket holes, use pocket hole screws to join the pieces of wood. You can also cover the pocket holes with wood filler or wood plugs.
5. Using a Chisel to Hide Screws
This is a more advanced technique, ideal for experienced DIY’ers.
Start by choosing a sharp chisel of the appropriate size. A chisel that is too wide or too dull could tear or damage the surrounding wood.
Then, carefully cut a thin flap of wood that can be lifted from the surface. Cut at a shallow angle and deep enough to accommodate the screwhead. With the wood flap lifted, drill a pilot hole where the screw will be inserted. Follow this with a countersink to ensure the screw head sits below the surface.
After that, insert the screw into the pilot hole carefully. Ensure the screw is fully recessed into the countersunk hole so that it does not push against the wood flap when replaced. Then, apply a small amount of wood glue to the underside of the flap and press it back down into its original position.
Once dried, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the area until it’s smooth and flush with the surrounding wood.
