Miller Dowels

How do they work?

The key to its utility is the unique patented stepped design. The first section acts like a clamp that securely holds the first piece to the second. The second section gives the joint shear strength. The remaining sections bond with the anchor pieces to form a secure joint. The sections are not tapered, which means that the glue surface remains intact through the entire length of the dowel engaging with the wood.

The stepped design of a Miller dowel achieves three or more separate parallel diameters for gluing strength and hold-down force. Each step has a radial ledge of 45 degrees. Each dowel is turned to a furniture-grade tolerance of +/- .008 of an inch and is kiln-dried to a moisture content of 7% to 9%.

How to select a size for your project?

• Use 1X for Wood Pieces up to 1-1/8 inches in thickness
• Use 2X for Wood Pieces up to 1-5/8 inches in thickness
• Use Mini X for Wood Pieces 1/2 inch thickness and up to a maximum of 3/4 inches thickness

Using Miller Dowels

1. Select the best-sized Miller Dowel and corresponding Miller Dowel Drill Bit for your application. Align and secure the wood pieces to be joined. (You may even choose to glue and set all components in place.) Drill the stepped pilot hole for the dowel.
2. Throughly clear all wood debris out of the hole. Use forced air from an air compressor, canned air, or blow with a straw.  ALWAYS BE SURE TO WEAR SAFETY GLASSES!
3. Spread a small amount of glue on the ribbed sections of the dowel and insert it so that it drops approximately two-thirds its length. (It will self-center and align with the 2nd board even if you have not pre-glued or clamped the components.)
4. Tap the dowel until fully inserted.
5. Trim/sand any raised portion.