Are you looking for how to use woodworking clamps properly? Check out this article to learn about different clamping devices and their complete operating methods.
Tips for using clamping devices
Many people say that how many woodworking clamps is not too much. Indeed, you will not be able to have durable glue joints without the help of specialized clamps.
How to use clamps for woodworking? Depending on your needs and usage situations, you need to use different tools. But how to use them is not much different. The basic steps include:
- Clean your clamps.
- Glue the wood together.
- Mount and fix the device.
- Clip two pieces of wood together.
To learn more about step-by-step details, continue reading the following article with us.
How To Use Woodworking Clamps: Instructions For Different Clamping Types
The clamp is a term that refers to devices with a pair of jaws held together by a screw mechanism. When you glue two pieces of wood together, there is still a chance that they will come apart without proper fixation.
The glue takes time to dry and set. When you don’t use force to squeeze the two surfaces together, air can get in and weaken the connection.
The function of the clamp is to seal the two surfaces tightly and keep the glue joints strong. This device is easy to use, easy to find, so it is prevalent. You can refer to a few common types of clamps below.
How To Use Bar Clamps
Using bar-clamping device
This type of equipment uses a rectangular bar of aluminum or steel as the frame. It consists of a jaw on one side of the head and a tail that can move vertically.
Another name for this device is joiner’s clamps that are two to six feet long. Compared to aluminum, steel has a much tighter grip and pressure.
It is commonly used in rough frames to pull a reluctant connector into place. Typical projects that require the assistance of this device are closing cabinets or repairing doors/windows.
How to use this type of device is as follows.
Checking The Bar Clamp
Make sure your clamp is clean and free of dust before you start using it. Excess rust, cobwebs, or wood glue can damage the wood and hinder the project’s progress.
It is best to use a damp cloth to clean the clamp. In case this device is too rusty, consider buying a new one.
Gluing Wood
Use a thin layer of wood glue to fix the two pieces of wood together. Please choose the type of glue that is suitable for the material you are using.
Attaching The Clamp
You can fix this tail section in any position, depending on the size of your wood project. There are two ways to improve it: locating the slide or using a pin through the bar.
Place the fixed head and tail section on the two edges of the part. You can use a screwdriver to tighten the device more firmly on the workpiece.
Squeezing Shut
Once you’ve secured the two clamps securely to the edges of the wood, squeeze the lever to clamp them together with just the right amount of pressure. It would help if you kept this position until the piece of wood was dry. We recommend a minimum of two hours.
One note is not to squeeze the device too tightly, or the pressure will damage your material.
How To Use Pipe Clamps
Pipe clamps have the same appearance as bar clamps, where the central part is shaped like a tube. It also has a fixed function and a movable tail section for you to position depending on the project.
Since it has only two jaws, this device is highly affordable. Usually, there are two fittings that you will frequently use, ½ inch and ¾ inch pipe.
The way to use pipe clamps is as follows.
Wood Gluing
Secure the two pieces of wood with a layer of tight-fitting glue.
Setting Up The Clamp
Click the stop at the end and pull it out so that the overall length of the device is 3 inches larger than your project. Then place the ends on the two edges of glued wood and secure.
Twisting The Device
Slide the tail towards the piece and turn it counterclockwise to tighten. The product uses a clutch or lever mechanism to fasten the two pieces together. You should keep it for about two hours for the glue to dry.
Do not let the device come into direct contact with softwood. Instead, insert a piece of scrap wood in the middle. It will help minimize the impact and possible damage.
How To Use C Clamps
Using C-Damps
As the name suggests, this device has a C-shaped shape and is often used to clamp metal objects. Its primary material is iron, steel, or aluminum. Therefore, you will need to use a spacer to protect the wood surface from damage during clamping.
This type of device comes in a variety of sizes, ranging from one to twelve inches. If there is a gap from the edge of the workpiece, use a clamp with a more bottomless throat.
How to use C-Damps is as follows.
Checking For Clean
Don’t forget to clean your C-clamp before use. Make sure it’s clean, free of dirt or rust.
Gluing Wood
Spread a moderately thin layer of glue between the two wood surfaces to stick them together.
Opening Clamp
To loosen the clamp, turn the screw on the clamp head counterclockwise. When the unit has expanded sufficiently, place the two fixed ends, and the tail stops at the ends of the wood.
Securing The Clamp
To tighten the clamp, turn the screw clockwise. Secure the clamp to the two pieces of wood for about two hours until the glue is completely dry.
Discover A Variety Of Clamps
In addition to the standard fixing devices that we introduced above, you can also refer to other types of clamps. Depending on your needs and situations, be flexible.
To learn more about wood clamps, check out this video.
Hand-Screw Clamp
This classic wooden appliance has been around for a long time and is still very popular due to its high utility. The long jaw provides good access and does not hurt the wood surface. You can also clamp parts with unusual machining joints thanks to the independent operation of the top and bottom screws.
You can use this device to hold smaller pieces of material in place.
Using spring-clamping device
Spring Clamp
This fixture tool has a very affordable price tag, but the pressure provided is not enough. This type of clamp is only suitable for delicate wooden surfaces such as the body of a guitar.
Parallel Clamp
Many people prefer this tool because it distributes the force evenly and has reasonably high pressure. Parallel clamps are suitable for large projects involving wooden furniture. Its downside is that it is pretty expensive and not ideal for hobbyists.
Final Thoughts
Woodworking clamps are indispensable items for any carpenter. It makes your work process more manageable and saves a lot of time.
If you’re still wondering about the right equipment, consider bar, pipe, and C-clamps. They are essential tools.
Don’t forget to share this article if you find it useful. Thank you very much.
