Corner clamps

Many of my first building projects were cabinet-type constructions that required square corners. I struggled with this for a long time until I finally invested in some specialized braces and clamps. Not only did this improve the quality of my work, it also cut my setup time by more than half; not to mention the fact that it almost eliminated rework when a join didn’t go quite as planned.

I started with a set of the Rockler Clamp-It Assembly Squares, along with some short clamps to hold them in place. These were okay, but I found them a little clumsy to set up by themselves. When I added these to the Rockler Clamp-It Jig, it was like the mysteries of the box-building universe were revealed to me. “This is what real box building is like,” I said to myself in amazement as each corner lined up perfectly.

What I like about this system is that it both aligns the pieces you’re joining and HOLDS the work. So you can get everything set before you start. I set these on the floor and set up the three sides of the camper box, getting the corners close to alignment. I glue up the first joint, set the final alignment and tighten the corner clamp. I can then add fasteners to join that corner, then move to the next.

If you are a real woodworker, you probably have a dozen or more better techniques, but these work for me. Also, I get a kickback from Amazon if you buy these by following the links on my site.

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