Replies

1. 
   hammer1 | May 19, 2010 09:08pm | #1

   Technically, you can set just about any nail below the surface and use a plug or filler/putty to cover it. Normally, finish nails or brads are used since they have very small heads. A nail set is used to drive the heads below the surface.

2. 
   Boogalee | May 19, 2010 10:54pm | #2

   You can use a 23 guage pin nail.  It makes a very small hole.

   I normally would not use nails, just glue and clamps.

3. 
   flairwoodworks | May 24, 2010 04:20pm | #3

   I think the best solution is not to use the nails in the first place, as it can be difficult to get an invisible match.  I have heard that 23 gauge brad nails fired from an air-nailer are virtually invisible, but they don't offer much strenght either, though they do provide resistance from lateral slippage.

   Or, if you don't want the nails to show, you could use screws.

4. 
   flairwoodworks | May 25, 2010 12:40am | #4

   Are the nails really necessary?

   If the nails are really necessary, you have to determine how much strength they need to provide.  That will determine which nails you choose.  I would either use large-ish nails and putty or no nails at all.

5. 
   RalphBarker | May 25, 2010 11:07am | #5

   Nails?

   Nails in a "fine woodworking" context? Ack!  ;-)

   There are times when small finish nails or brads might be employed to hold a piece in position while the glue sets. Hammer1's mention of using a nail set to set the nail below the surface, and then filling the hole with putty is a good option. Proper clamping may be a better option on exterior areas where the filled hole might be noticable, however.

1. 
   Jammersix | May 25, 2010 06:26pm | #6

   Well, the Shaker Cradle, a well respected, time tested design, uses small nails.