Table clamps are one of the most essential tools in any woodworking workshop. Whether you are a beginner or professional woodworker, clamps allow you to securely hold your workpieces in place for routing, drilling, gluing, sanding and other operations. However, many workshops are still lacking sufficient clamps or using low quality clamps that do little more than hold pieces together. In this article, we will discuss how to upgrade your workshop with essential table clamps.
1. F-Style Clamps:
F-style clamps, also known as bar clamps, are one of the most versatile clamping options. They use a threaded rod and sliding mechanism to securely clamp workpieces of various sizes. F-style clamps come in different sizes from 6 inches to 48 inches or more. Larger clamps with pipe jaws can clamp wide panels. They are great for gluing edges and faces of boards. Make sure to stock up on common sizes like 12, 24 and 36 inches for most woodworking tasks.
2. Quick Grip Clamps:
Quick grip clamps are easy to use clamps with a lever mechanism for one-handed clamping. They don’t require threading like traditional clamps which makes them very convenient. Quick grip clamps are available in smaller 6-12 inch sizes suitable for edge gluing, laminating and other detailed work. Larger models up to 24 inches can also handle wider panels. Quick grip clamps are an excellent addition for any woodworker looking for clamping ease and speed.
3. Pipe Clamps:
Pipe clamps use threaded rods and adjustable pipe jaws to securely clamp irregular surfaces and large panels. They are extremely versatile and can clamp surfaces that other clamps cannot reach. Pipe clamps come in different sizes from 12-48 inches. For workshops, 24-36 inch pipe clamps are very useful as they allow clamping of large panels, doors, and other non-standard workpieces. Pipe clamps should be in every woodworker’s arsenal.
4. Corner Clamps:
For gluing miters, applying edging to tabletops or assembling carcasses, corner clamps are very useful. They securely clamp at 90 degree corners without slipping. Corner clamps come in different sizes suitable for picture frames, furniture and cabinets. Having a set of common sizes like 6, 12 and 24 inches allows clamping of various corner joints with ease. Corner clamps ensure perfect glue-ups of angled surfaces.
5. Parallel Clamps:
Parallel clamps are used to apply even pressure across wide surfaces when gluing panels, tabletops or laminating. They feature adjustable bars that move in parallel to apply uniform clamping force without slipping or rocking. Parallel clamps are available in frame styles for tabletops and bar styles for wider panels. For most woodshops, a pair of 24-36 inch parallel clamps can handle common gluing tasks that require spread out pressure.
Conclusion
A well-stocked clamping system is key to success in any woodworking project. The five types of clamps discussed here – F-style, quick grip, pipe, corner and parallel clamps – form the core of an essential clamping arsenal. Upgrading your workshop with high quality clamps in these categories will allow secure, hassle-free clamping of various materials and surfaces. So consider investing in clamps – it will boost your productivity and ensure flawless results in every project.
