Here's something I came up with today (I don't claim its rocket science).

Ever wonder those holes you pre-drilled are really lined up before you
start to drive them? Put a short piece of insulated wire into each of
the holes first and then pull it out right before you put the screw in.

I think it is even handier when their is glue involved and the clock is
running. You can even stick the wires in to the top piece before you
apply the glue. YMMV.

Depending upon how the wood is arranged, I apply glue, line up the
pieces to be joined, and shoot a brad or two to keep things aligned
while I clamp and/or drill & drive screws. That's not always practical
to do but works great in the right situation.

John S.

On 06/04/2012 12:30 AM, Bill wrote:

Here's something I came up with today (I don't claim its rocket science).

Ever wonder those holes you pre-drilled are really lined up before you
start to drive them? Put a short piece of insulated wire into each of
the holes first and then pull it out right before you put the screw in.

I think it is even handier when their is glue involved and the clock is
running. You can even stick the wires in to the top piece before you
apply the glue. YMMV.