You can do everything you need to do for the cabinet with the most basic pocket hole jig. So just get that, since it’s a small investment and get to know the tool, if you don’t use it very often, no need to get an expensive tool that just sits around. Also, the basic jig is very small and will fit in a drawer, versus the larger clamping jig, will require some more space to store. So it’s just a matter of what your needs are. A professional jig won’t really help you that much for this cabinet, but if you end up using the tool a lot, it will just be more easy and efficient over time. The pocket hole is definitely perfect for a cabinet, good choice.

not sure yet, what are your recommendations for the insulation?

yes, I will do the fascia next, and the inner support. Do you recommend the inner support along the top plate? And additionally, another a bit further inside? I was going to do plywood, but don’t have the material yet. I also have a bunch of fence boards that I collected, would those work or would that not be strong enough?

it’s a 2x6 👍

You can mix sand with paint, and paint that on the plywood for better grip. Or you can also make wheat paste mixed with sand, that you plaster onto the plywood. The paint will be very sandy, so it will be hard to use with a brush, you can just smear it on by hand.

I’m really excited to see what you are going to make! The oven will be a great project to do with the kids. I hope everybody gets their hands dirty! Really looking forward to your progress

Yes, there is going to be the earthen plaster (clay and sand) covering the pallets, both inside and outside, so you have to fill in all the gaps to plaster the Earth mixture on top of the pallets. If the gaps are more than 2 inches, then it will be challenging to plaster the pallets.