When we worked on our first ever center table (which is also our first ever project), we had to stick a 4 mm sheet of One Side Team onto a plywood using synthetic resin glue. Because we had no means to hold the OST sheet in place and the glue required some drying time, we literally had to sit on either side of the table for a good 15 minutes. And we did this for the next few projects too. When it was a smaller work, like a DIY photo frame, I had to hold the sticks tightly together for a while before I was convinced that the glue has dried.
That is when I thought I should get my hands on C-Clamps (also called G-Clamps), purely for my gluing needs.
C-Clamps / G-Clamps |
I went for the smallest of ones that can open as wide as 1 inch and not more. Highly suited for surfaces of lesser thickness. I have ever since used these clamps successfully for making a wall clock and for laminating wooden surfaces.
C Clamps for basic woodworking and DIY needs |
I bought these clamps at Home Depot during my short visit to the US last year. I have also inquired here and these are available in hardware stores and tools shops. There are different types of clamps that are available and C-Clamps are just one of those. It has been an important accessory in my tool kit that has helped reduce the pressure on my fingers and deserved a special mention here.
Do you use clamps for your projects ? I believe they are extensively used even outside of woodworking. If you do use them for your crafting needs, share the details in the comments section. Will certainly love to hear about it.
Yes, clamps are absolutely essential for woodworking. I work alone and often clamps act as an extra pair of hands. I find laminating surfaces the most difficult as at times the laminate does not sit perfectly flat and looks bad after it has dried.
ReplyDeleteHi Indranil, totally agree with you :) I find it so convenient for the laminate needs.
DeleteSomu, does these clamps help when drilling a hole in a small piece of wood? To hold the wood down to a table?
ReplyDeleteHi Praveen, these are very small clamps and can only open upto about an inch or so. Certainly there are other similar clamps that can fulfill your requirement.
DeleteCheers
Somu