Metal Dowel Maker
Make the dowels you need, when you need them — with a small tool that lives in your drawer
A small metal dowel maker based on Matthias’ tested design — made for producing accurate dowels from square stock without a big setup, bench-mounted jig, or batch-making more than you need.
Intro
Matthias has been testing a compact dowel maker that cuts dowels from square stock using a more controlled blade geometry.The wooden versions are already being tested and sold in small batches. We’re now exploring whether a simplified metal version would be worth producing at scale.This page is here to collect interest and feedback before we decide how far to take the project.No payment required. This is not a pre-order.
Prototype Machining Test
A short behind-the-scenes look at the prototype being machined.NOTE
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Three Core Benefits
1. No big setup
No bench-mounted jig, no large fixture, and no need to make a full batch of dowels. Cut a piece of square stock, run it through, and put the tool back in the drawer.2. Compact and practical
The goal is a small single-size tool that is easy to keep near the bench and use when a project suddenly needs a few dowels.3. Built around accuracy
The guide hole, blade position, and cutting geometry are the important parts. The prototype works well, and we’re now looking at how to make a simpler metal version that is still precise enough to be useful.
Help Shape This Tool
We’re still deciding on sizes, finish, accessories, and final pricing.Your feedback will help us understand whether a metal version is worth producing — and what version would actually be useful in the shop.
F&Q
Is this available to buy now?
Not yet. This page is only for collecting interest before deciding whether to produce a metal version.Is this the same as Matthias’ wooden dowel maker?
It is based on the same general idea and testing process, but the metal version would need to be adapted for manufacturing.Will it make multiple dowel sizes?
Most likely no. The guide hole size is critical, so the practical approach is probably one body per size rather than one tool that makes every size.What sizes are being considered?
The likely starting sizes are 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2", with other sizes depending on interest.Why not make one adjustable version?
An adjustable version sounds useful, but it would make the tool more complex and may not reduce cost much. A small single-size tool may be simpler, more reliable, and easier to use.Will there be a drill driver adapter?
Possibly. It may be more useful for larger sizes like 1/2" and 5/8", while smaller sizes may not need it.What will it cost?
The final price is not set yet. We’re trying to make a practical metal version, not a polished $100+ prototype. The final price will depend on size, machining method, finish, accessories, and production cost.Will I be charged if I enter my email?
No. Entering your email only means you want updates if the project moves forward.