Originally Posted by
Prashun Patel
Quickly scanning, I don't see that anyone has mentioned:
I highly recommend making some 'cambered' or curved clamping cauls. For must straight glue ups, these spread clamping pressure along an edge and reduce the number of clamps you require for a glue up. They can also be used to keep panels flat and aligned during glue up. All this is to say, cauls may allow you to get along with fewer clamps than some of the generously-stocked armories you see below.
I agree...they are indispensable when gluing up panels for keeping things flat. I happen to use Bowclamps, but it's possible to make them in the shop, too.
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The most expensive tool is the one you buy "cheaply" and often...