In the process of woodworking, in most cases it is impossible to do without a carpentry clamp. Whether it is necessary to glue wooden blanks, secure a sheet, board, or slab during cutting - you will definitely need a clamp. On sale similar products yes, but according to reviews experienced craftsmen, they are characterized by two significant shortcomings– limitations in size and low strength, since soft metals (alloys) are mainly used for their production in order to reduce costs.
Those who have to work with wood quite often prefer homemade carpentry clamps. How to make such a device with your own hands, what to pay attention to and take into account - this is discussed in the article.
There are many modifications of carpentry clamps - corner, G-shaped, edge, universal. Some are used for continuous work with various workpieces (in area, thickness), others are manufactured for a specific technological operation (for one-time use).
The author considers it advisable to dwell only on those that are most often used by “home craftsmen”. If the principle of their functioning becomes clear, then you will be able to make any type of carpentry clamp with your own hands, to suit your own needs. If, of course, you turn on your imagination and think carefully.
The author deliberately does not indicate the linear dimensions of the clamps. One of their advantages self-made lies in the possibility of arbitrarily choosing the shape and dimensions of carpentry clamps. There is no standard for such devices. And it’s hardly advisable to “chew” basic things for a person who is used to (and knows how to) do everything with his own hands. The main thing is to give an idea, to “prompt an idea”, and everything else is at your own discretion.
The simplest modification of the clamp. It is done quite quickly, but the use of such a carpentry clamp is somewhat limited. Although in most cases, when working with small-sized samples, it is quite sufficient.
The basis of the device is the frame of a hacksaw for metal. The fastening elements of the blade are replaced by long threaded rods, at one end of which there is an iron “penny” (as an option – a nut), at the other – either a removable handle or a head for an open-end wrench.
Since the frame can be adjusted in length, such a clamp will allow you to fix workpieces of various thicknesses. It is mainly used when gluing parts (), since the body of the device itself cannot be fixed to any surface. The only thing that needs to be taken into account is that if the frame is folding (the old modification of the “hacksaw”), then you will have to apply a “tire” at the bend (for example, wrap it with adhesive tape). This clamp is not entirely convenient to use, but in the absence of something more suitable, it is a good solution to the problem.
Also a fairly simple clamp model. It is done with your own hands relatively quickly. The design of the device is clear from the figure. All you need is a metal angle and a couple of long screws or threaded rods.
If you make several of these clamps, you can use them to perform various carpentry jobs. For example, gluing long workpieces. To do this, it is enough to set the clamps at a certain interval, and lay metal strips or slats made of hardwood between the stops and the sample being processed. Another option is to mount the assembly on a workbench. The same applies to cutting blanks.
Before sawing, they are fixed on the tabletop, and their immobility will be guaranteed. This design can be modified by welding to the corners metal plates. This significantly increases the clamping area.
Essentially, for household use This modification of the carpentry clamp is one of the best. Experienced craftsmen always have at hand a ready-made set of several devices with different dimensions. Depending on the specifics of the work, you may need a clamping device made from a corner of either 25 or 45.
The versatility of this modification lies in the fact that it is made of metal and, therefore, is characterized by sufficient strength. Unlike wooden clamps, here you can adjust the clamping force over a wide range, and work not only with wood, but also with other materials - glass, plastics, iron. This is what you often have to do in everyday life.
This design can be slightly modified. For example, when processing logs on a mini-sawmill (dissolving into boards, sawing), they must also be fixed. In that suitable for this case an improved modification of such a carpentry clamp. It is enough to take strip iron as its basis, and weld the same corners at the ends.
Here are a few more types of carpentry clamps. All these clamps are easy to assemble with your own hands.
The question is: how advisable is it to use it as source material wood? There are arguments both for and against. But if a tree is chosen for the base of a carpentry clamp, then it must meet certain criteria.
Good luck, reader, in making your own clamp. Don't be afraid to fantasize, and everything will work out for you!
Every craftsman who makes products and parts made of metal or wood cannot do without homemade clamps. Previously, such a tool was produced in various modifications, from specialized to universal. The main task is to fix the workpiece for processing and joining operations. Let's look at how to make a quick-release clamp with your own hands in various variations.
This type of do-it-yourself metal clamp is designed for fixing two objects at right angles and connecting each other using any methods, however, the main purpose is as a welding jig metal parts at the angle required for work. To make it properly , you will need the following components:
Corners should be welded at 90 degrees to metal or steel plates. We attach the worm-type structure by welding, and screw a pin-driver into the working nut in order to assemble a stop at the end. The stop must turn freely. Then with reverse side it is necessary to drill a hole where we insert a metal rod as a lever. Incredible simple design and practicality of use have become the key to the popularity of such a clamp among everyone who works with metal and products made from it.
Such designs, used in carpentry, there are the following types:
The first type is made from two pine blocks, a locking nut, rods, threaded wing nuts and thrust washers. The manufacturing process is very simple:
The second option is used when prompt fixation of small parts is necessary. Production is carried out from small bars and thin-sheet plywood. Furniture nuts and collar pins act as a worm system. One stop is stationary; we attach it to the end of the guide rail, in which we cut out recesses to fix the moving mechanism.
There are both portable and stationary versions of this design, where grooves are cut for movement with the fastening of fixed stops. The clamp is a furniture nut, a hairpin and a knob. Due to this, you can work with workpieces of any size.
The self-clamping design has a lever with an eccentric at the rotating end. We turn it at a certain angle, a quick clamp is automatically obtained. The height is adjusted with a pin on the workbench. It is made individually for each matrix, depending on its purpose and the purpose of the work being carried out.
Welding metal pipes end to end is complex operation. It is considered simpler to weld the pipe to the finished system. The design for such cases is made of a metal angle and steel plates. The halves of such a device should be fixed traditional method, namely threaded studs. As a result, you can get a fairly simple and effective design, which will greatly facilitate the work when welding pipes with various designs.
There are other types of designs, including cam mechanisms, tape and wire clamps, which can be useful for working with specific structures, including particularly fragile and thin ones. However, their production is the subject of separate master classes and articles on specialized resources.
Homemade clamps are indispensable assistants for any craftsman working with metal and wooden parts and products. Making them is quite simple and very exciting. Here it is important to follow the manufacturing technology, find the best instructions and videos. You can buy clamps, but they may ultimately not be suitable due to the specificity of the workpiece or work. This is why you should make your own clamps. Good luck working with various workpieces and making homemade quick-release clamps!
The corner clamp and other models of this device belong to the assistant tools that are necessary for fixing parts during processing or for tightly compressing parts together, for example, during the gluing process.
Carpentry clamps are made from metal and wood. Some elements for non-stationary fastenings may also be called clamps, but this is incorrect. Meat grinders have a similar fixation, desk lamp, vices and the like. The main difference between the clamp is that, having installed it on the surface, you can work with both hands, although Lately Models have appeared that allow you to use only one hand.
There is a type of these devices called lever ones. They differ in that they are based not only on a system of axes, but also on levers. They are often called clamps or clamps, as well as quick-clamping devices, systems for quick fixation. You just need to apply a little effort, and a decent clamping force is instantly created. In order to quickly secure a part, you only need to perform one movement - move the clamping handle. Consists of the simplest hand clamp consisting of a main frame or bracket and moving elements with clamps, this can be either a screw or a lever. Its purpose is not only to fix the moving part, but also to adjust the compression force.
The main difference between different models of clamps is their mechanism. Therefore, the following classes are often distinguished:
When choosing this tool, you need to pay attention to the working stroke, as well as the distance to which the locking elements can move apart. The most practical devices are those that have the highest listed indicators. With larger parameters, you can use larger parts in your work; dimensions can vary in different models from 20 to 350 mm. Now let's say a few words about each type of clamp.
Screw-type devices are distinguished by the fact that they have a screw and the handle is T-shaped. When turning the handle, the jaws begin to compress, and when rotating in the opposite direction, they begin to unclench. Such clamps are often used to secure pipes when working with plumbing fixtures. Angle clamp used to support product blanks at right angles. This can be a variety of locksmith work. They are considered very durable because duralumin is used for their production, and they are convenient for metalwork because they have special mounting holes so that they can be used.
The design of such clamps is good for holding frame elements or corners, as well as other similar parts while gluing them.
The mounting clamp is designed to fasten and clamp reinforced concrete slabs and other materials that are used in the construction of buildings or structures. For this work, clamps are made from special durable metals. This allows them to be used for securing structures with heavy weight during construction or repair work. Although it performs complex and responsible work, the design of such a clamp is very simple, the drawing clearly indicates this. It is considered the most reliable.
Workers without special qualifications can easily handle its use and repair. More this type devices are used to secure pipes and other communication elements. With their help, you can secure round or oval parts well with different diameters. The main difference between this type of clamp is that there are several attachment points, so working with them will ensure reliable connection pieces of pipeline, and the structure will be well prepared for welding work.
Quick-release clamps are called the most effective. Often when working with parts there are cases of their displacement due to force.. It’s good if the reaction is immediate, and you can move the clamp handle with your hand and lock it more securely. Therefore, quick-release clamps have linings attached, and the system of axes and levers allows you to operate the clamp with only one hand.
A hand clamp is also called a spring clamp. It has two handles, and if you move them apart, the main clamping parts will also instantly move apart, and when performing the reverse actions, they will close together and fix any object. Due to the existing spring mechanism, the user's efforts are greatly reduced. This type of clamp is used when it is necessary to glue small parts or hold small objects made of non-solid materials: cardboard, wood, plastic. In addition to the main types of clamps, there are also unique or highly specialized ones. There are also a lot of them, the following options are often found: cam, wedge, corner, with deep grooves, special for chairs.
If you want your own clamp to help you in your work, we will try to make an option with our own hands that has the simplest design.
Before you start assembling this device, you need to see if your home pantry has everything you need. For manufacturing you need: a pair of studs, where the thread is about two hundred millimeters long and the diameter is about five millimeters; a pair of studs, where the cross-section is the same as the first ones, and the length is about 120 mm; nuts of suitable size; a pair of plywood boards measuring 15x150x200 mm; a pair of slats measuring 20x40x240 mm (it is advisable to use blocks made of non-soft wood).
Homemade clamps are usually attached to the surface of the work table. Therefore, bars are taken that are prepared for fastening. A pair of holes are drilled on them so that the nuts and studs are pressed very tightly against each other. In order for the device to be stable and durable, the lower beam must be placed tightly on a horizontal plane, that is, flat, and the upper beam must be placed on the contrary with its edge towards the tabletop. Then you need to install plywood boards and attach a block to them, which will be attached to the surface of the table. It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that the bottom edge of the boards is at least 3 cm below the block. All these elements, and there are three of them, are drilled through. They will be needed to insert the studs a little later.
One plank must be firmly fixed to the bottom bar. The second board will act as a clamp. This design will carry out the grip using a movable plywood strip, and with the help of short pins the clamp will be attached to the table surface. Long pins are needed to determine the working stroke, and nuts are needed to fix the moving part and adjust the clamping force. Their role in this design is to be levers. You have learned how to make a clamp, but you should understand that homemade tools have a low level of strength. But for simple housework they will good helpers.
Each carpenter uses clamps during work, reliably fixing workpieces with their help. You can make such a device yourself, and there are several options.
Clamps are simple, universal and specialized. Appeared not long ago the new kind products - quick-clamping. Such an element can compress up to 450 kg. It will be useful to study the instructions for making wood clamps with your own hands.
Regardless of the type of clamp, it must firmly clamp the parts for joining or processing. Angular carpentry jig helps to fasten wood pieces at a certain angle (most often 90°, but there are others). You cannot do without this when assembling furniture and frames.
In order to make such a clamp from wood with your own hands, you will need the following materials:
A square board with a side of 25 or 30 cm is cut out of plywood. Two bars are fixed on it at an angle of 90 °.
Important! The angle must be measured from high accuracy, since the correct fixation of parts depends on it.
First, the bars are glued, then countersunk, holes are drilled and screws or other fasteners are tightened. Perpendiculars are drawn from the center of the bars - screw studs will pass here.
At a distance of 20 mm from the corners, thrust bars are attached, maintaining a gap between them. It should be slightly larger than the width of the parts that are to be clamped with a homemade clamp. It is better to screw in the studs immediately, before fixing the stops. You will also need to cut out the movable blocks that will be connected to the pin (when it is unscrewed, the workpiece will be pressed against the corner bar).
For screws, it is best to take studs with rectangular or trapezoidal threads. The thread pitch is 2 turns per cm. It is very good if the stud has a rear sight on one side of a slightly smaller diameter than the thread. It can be used to seat the handle. On the other hand, a rear sight with a slightly larger diameter to accommodate the bearing is desirable.
So, in the simplest clamp, one end will be stationary, and the second will move through a worm gear.
To release the workpiece, you need to move the bracket to the required distance and turn the knob a few turns. This will fix the element. After this, you can release the mechanism and the workpiece will be released.
The simplest version of this model is equipped with a rail structure. The guides, which are arranged parallel, have cut grooves on equal distance. Fixed stops are secured using rods made of metal. They can move exactly along the width of the workpieces. At the end of the beams, fixed stops should be installed, which have a worm mechanism. In the usual way clamping occurs with a hairpin and a furniture nut.
For gluing parts, it is better to choose the simplest clamp model, which has F shape. They sell it in stores various models, which consist not only of wood, but also of metal. The cost of such instruments is high. Therefore, many craftsmen prefer to make them with their own hands.
For small jobs, a cam-type clamp is ideal. For example, if you need to glue small parts or fix workpieces. This model works in the same way as the f-shaped element. The tool includes 2 jaws and guide bars. Sponges: movable and fixed. For reliable clamping, it is necessary to fix the workpiece well and rotate the cam 90 degrees.
You can make such a tool yourself with a minimum set of tools and materials. Before you begin, you should draw a drawing of the product. You can use any material for manufacturing, and also change standard sizes at will.
The tire is made of wood or metal. Small bolts and rivets can be used instead of metal pins. It is recommended to make movable and fixed jaws at the same time, since they mirror each other. Their width and length can be changed to increase the grip of the product.
Clamping clamps are needed to fix the plots, which, after the glue has dried, are used to furniture panels. Such products differ from simple ones in their length. In other words, they have a large jaw span. If you buy such material in a store, you will have to pay a decent amount. Therefore, craftsmen prefer to make clamping mechanisms themselves.
In order to make tree clamps, you will need the following elements:
The basis of the material is a pipe, from which a piece of the required length is cut. Depending on the size of the jaws, it is necessary to cut the block. The pieces should be from 15 to 20 cm. For free movement of the timber along the pipe, a hole with a diameter of 2.5 cm should be made at a distance of 2.5 cm from the edge. Parallel to the hole, a cut should be made from the same end. To fix the sponge on the pipe, connect the hole to the end.
For the driving nut, you need to drill an additional hole on the side of the cut. You need to drive a nut into it and tighten it with a bolt on the back side. To fix the sponge, clamp the pipe in the hole. To move the pipe, you need to unscrew the bolt, then move the element and repeat all the steps again.
The lower clamping part has 2 jaws; it is slightly larger than the upper one and has an additional nut. The structure of both parts is identical. An additional driving nut is located at the opposite end of the pipe into which a stud with a wing nut is installed.
In the second collapsible moving part there are no clamping parts such as cuts and nuts. The dimensions of such an element are also rather large. In this part it is necessary to make a recess for the stud device.
The principle of operation of the clamp is very simple. It is necessary to separate the jaws so that they are separated from each other at a distance of 3 cm greater than the width of the shield that will be installed. Next you need to fix them on the pipe. To do this, tighten the nuts that are located at the edges. The blanks must be placed on the tubes and sealed with glue. Then they need to be pulled together by rotating the “lamb”.
If you know how to use a grinder and a welding machine, you can make the same clamp for gluing wood from metal.
To maintain the plane of the plot with tubes, it is recommended to arrange the clamps in a checkerboard pattern. The main advantage of such a tool is its ease of manufacture and operation.
Having mastered the skills of making simple-shaped clamps, you can improve them and make devices for connecting complex parts.
There are homemade clamps made from a wooden hanger, which is sawn into pieces. They combine wood and steel and make more comfortable handles that allow you to quickly tighten the screw. This is especially important if you need to frequently change position or use several clamps at the same time. In the case of complex pieces, you can first cut them out of paper and then transfer them to plywood.
Although welded metal products are more reliable, wooden structures also used not only for carpentry, but also for turning, carpentry work. You don't need to have any special skills to create a clamp. You can make such a wooden product in unlimited quantities with your own hands. You just need to devote some time to the manufacturing process.
Carrying out plumbing or carpentry work in places not equipped for this purpose is inevitably associated with the problem of securing workpieces. It is very difficult to prevent them from moving around the table or workbench during processing if they are not equipped with special clamps, a vice or other fixing devices. One such device, simple, affordable and versatile, is clamps. We will tell you what they are and how they are used, and also give detailed instructions on how to make reliable clamps with your own hands.
The clamp is an additional carpentry tool. The main purpose of clamps is to fix a workpiece on a support surface or several workpieces for gluing them together; therefore, the design of the tool must include at least two elements: a support surface and a movable jaw equipped with a fixation mechanism. The movable jaw is usually moved using a screw or lever, which allows for increased compression and prevents backlash during operation. Depending on specialization and design features
Clamps of this type are suitable for working with large workpieces
Objects are fixed using an auxiliary screw and a stepper mechanism
The clamp is suitable for working with large workpieces
Clamps of this type simplify joining workpieces at right angles
Corner clamp with double-sided corner block
The band clamp is equipped with a band element that allows you to fix the workpiece around the perimeter
This clamp is rarely used due to the low reliability of the joint
At home, the first clamps most often made are three types, since they are not too demanding on materials and production technologies, and also allow you to solve most household problems that require the use of auxiliary tools.
You will find even more information about the types of clamps in our next material:
To make clamps at home, it is enough to have basic plumbing and carpentry skills. The materials used are wooden beam, rolled metal, pipes and fasteners, in particular bolts, studs, nuts, pins. For joining metal parts of clamps, it is desirable to have an electric welding machine. When performing any work, the main thing is to follow the instructions and observe safety precautions.
This type of clamp will help to secure wood workpieces well.
A clamp made using this method is perfect for fixing small wooden pieces - plywood, fiberboard, OSB and chipboard sheets, as well as boards and thin beams. We suggest that you choose the scale yourself, but otherwise it is better not to deviate from the following sequence of actions:
An even simpler option is to make screw clamp from a hacksaw.
A simple version of a hacksaw clamp
In this case, it is enough to weld a support pad at one end of its arc, and a nut at the other, into which the adjusting screw with jaw and handle will be installed.
Making such a clamp will take longer
Usage F-shaped clamps significantly speeds up the work process. But making the clamp itself is somewhat more complicated than creating its screw counterpart. You will need to do the following:
Rough fixation of the lower jaw on the axial plate can be achieved by wedging its guide pins, inserting an additional pin, using a screw clamp or another method.
To make such a clamp you will need a metal pipe
For such a tool, you will need three metal rings, the inner diameter of which corresponds to the outer diameter of the pipe you have, instead of which, by the way, you can use a metal rod. If you have a welding machine, the process of making a clamp comes down to the following algorithm:
A pipe clamp is ideal for holding furniture elements during assembly; it will be convenient in construction and installation work and other similar operations.
To make this type of clamp, you can use wood, metal or duralumin. They differ from each other not only in material, but also in clamping force and the size of the fixed workpiece. Our next material presents detailed instructions for making tools:
Both in everyday life and in professional activity related to wood and metal processing, clamps will become an indispensable assistant. By following the instructions and having a simple set of materials, you can make this tool with your own hands.