No-Fuss Panel Clamping with Shop-Made Bar Clamp Stands
Gluing edging onto a panel can be frustrating when you're trying to balance the workpiece and several bar clamps at the same time. Just when you have everything lined up, a clamp tips over and you have to start again.
That's why I like these simple shop-made bar clamp stands. They keep the clamps upright while supporting the panel, making it much easier to position the parts before tightening the clamps.
Make a Simple Support for Bar Clamps
Each stand consists of two interlocking pieces.
The lower piece has an oversized slot that holds the bar clamp upright. The upper piece has a matching slot that fits over the lower support.
The upper section is sized to hold the workpiece at approximately the same height as the clamp head.
This arrangement provides support for both the clamp and the panel, so you don't have to juggle everything while applying glue and positioning the edging.
Easier Panel Assembly and Glue-Ups
To use the stands, place them along your workbench and position a bar clamp in each lower slot.
Set the panel on the upper supports and arrange the edging or other parts for assembly.
With the clamps held upright and the workpiece supported, you can check the alignment and make adjustments before applying full clamping pressure.
It's a simple solution that makes panel glue-ups less awkward and helps keep the parts where you want them.
Best of all, the stands are easy to make and can be sized to fit the bar clamps you already own.
Get Better Results from Your Next Glue-Up
Good clamping is only part of a successful panel glue-up. Choosing straight boards, matching grain patterns, keeping joints aligned, and applying even clamp pressure all make a difference.
Check out our 5 Tips for Gluing Up Wood Panels for practical techniques that help you create flat, strong panels with tight-fitting joints.
SEE THE PANEL GLUE-UP TIPS → 5 Tips for Gluing Up Flat Wood Panels
