I'm having trouble with the MDF splitting when I put a screw into the end of it. I was wondering what size screw and the dia. of predrill you are using to keep this from happening. Thanks.

#8 countersink.

7/64" pre-drill diameter.

#8 1 11/16" coarse threaded particle board screws (silver).

I'm quite picky. But after doing quite a few boxes, I've just found this way to be the easiest / work the best. Just my opinion of course.

- Steve

1"3/4 drywall screw and 2"1/4 for the longer parts

As hard as MDF is, its still a bit brittle. That's why it splits whenever you try to force screws in without predrilling. Also, make sure you get a high-quality countersink bit, and even then go very slowly or else you'll go thru more countersink bits than screws.

i use 2" coarse thread drywall screws or sometimes 1 5/8". Predrill with a 7/64 bit. I never get splitting unless i screw within one inch from the edge of a board.

1/8 bit for the predrill

5/16" countersink

#8x 1 5/8 drywall screws

After all the glue is dried, I remove all screws and use wood putty on the holes.