Uploaded November 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 days ago
If you need a knob for a project, you have a couple options: make one with a T-nut, as I showed in bitesize 7, or buy one. But both options have limits—cost, turning power, or even available sizes. For example, I’ve never found a store-bought knob that works with a 5/8” bolt.
Today, I’ll show you how to make a very simple knob using two pieces of scrap wood and any size square nut. 5/8's knobs are nearly impossible to buy, so I'll be making a knob with a 5/8's square nut.
You’ll also need a drill bit sized for your nut and a small chisel.
Your scrap wood needs to be at least twice the nut’s thickness. Then, create a center lap joint so the pieces fit together. Once they fit snugly, mark the joint’s center by crossing the diagonals and drill halfway through with a bit the thickness of your bolt.
Next, take the pieces apart and drill partially into the undrilled side to match the nut’s thickness. Use a chisel to square the hole so the nut fits snugly. Drill the remaining material with the same bit, insert the nut, and glue the pieces together.
Once dry, you’ll have a durable, custom knob that fits perfectly and costs almost nothing!
Check out my other channel! → @makethingswithrob
Become a patron! → patreon.com/makethings ←
Huge thank you to my patrons that keep this thing going!
*MAKER TEAM*
Michelle B
Keith Current
William L McNally
Rich Lightfoot
Tutor the Barbarian
Mike Lornitis
Les N.
Gary G.
Aubrey G.
Nukebert
Sam W.
Aaron Knows DIY
Doug F.
#MTbitesize
If you need a knob for a project, you have a couple options: make one with a T-nut, as I showed in bitesize 7, or buy one. But both options have limits—cost, turning power, or even available sizes. For example, I’ve never found a store-bought knob that works with a 5/8” bolt.
Today, I’ll show you how to make a very simple knob using two pieces of scrap wood and any size square nut. 5/8's knobs are nearly impossible to buy, so I'll be making a knob with a 5/8's square nut.
You’ll also need a drill bit sized for your nut and a small chisel.
Your scrap wood needs to be at least twice the nut’s thickness. Then, create a center lap joint so the pieces fit together. Once they fit snugly, mark the joint’s center by crossing the diagonals and drill halfway through with a bit the thickness of your bolt.
Next, take the pieces apart and drill partially into the undrilled side to match the nut’s thickness. Use a chisel to square the hole so the nut fits snugly. Drill the remaining material with the same bit, insert the nut, and glue the pieces together.
Once dry, you’ll have a durable, custom knob that fits perfectly and costs almost nothing!
Check out my other channel! → @makethingswithrob
Become a patron! → patreon.com/makethings ←
Huge thank you to my patrons that keep this thing going!
*MAKER TEAM*
Michelle B
Keith Current
William L McNally
Rich Lightfoot
Tutor the Barbarian
Mike Lornitis
Les N.
Gary G.
Aubrey G.
Nukebert
Sam W.
Aaron Knows DIY
Doug F.
#MTbitesize
