Wood working clamps

[dragoneggs]

I don't know that a biscuit jointer would be high on my list of tools to buy first. I have one and I use it every so often, but it doesn't get used nearly as much as other power tools...router, drill, sander, circular saw, jig saw I think I'd buy those before a biscuit jointer.

along with a full-sized plunge router, small trim router is very handy to have.

I love my biscuit joiner and recently upgraded to a domino joiner that is even cooler. But I agree in getting the basic tools first. You can do the same with splines, dowels, tongue and grooves just not as fast and easy.

 

[3Ts]

When I first started out I was on a budget so my pipe clamps are 1/2". Once in a while I use a coupling. Since my clamps are using black pipe and I use a lot of oak, I NEVER let the oak touch the pipe. When you do black stains from the oak/glue/iron interacting result.

Doug in SW IA

Yep, me too. And agree with never letting any iron touch oak. I have rolls of wax paper, plastic wrap, and aluminum foil in the shop separate from the kitchen supply. I typically use wax paper between oak and metal because it's easier to handle than plastic wrap that blows away with the slightest breeze. Also, if you handle white oak a lot your hands will turn purple so wear gloves (but not around machines), not sure if red oak does the same.

There are also silicone strips that can be wrapped around objects to clamp them. They stick to themselves so they're handy to use, but have to cut them to get them off. They're intended to repair water leaks, but work as clamps as well.

Self boding elastic strap

 

[tstex]

I bought four Bessey 24” parallel clamps to start my clamp collection. Next thing, went to back shed and found old 3/4”galvanized pipe. Cut four each of 3ft, 4ft & 6ft…Used a strong wire brush w my 110V drill, then filed off any left over debris. Then put 1” worth of 3/4” threads. Worked like a charm and the clamps really bite well. Here’s a b4 & after:

 

[civilian]

Like someone posted before, protect your project surface from the black pipe. Some will mark the wood surface. Also enjoy buying more clamps a your projects require more. Jon

 

[PILOON]

While I've seen many clamp storage racks/systems etc. mine is about as simple as it comes.

I simply predrilled a pilot hole in the shop wall stud headers and hammered in some old 10-12 nails (spikes) that I had left over from building a log cabin.
I then simply hang them on the spike.
Once hammered into place I cut the heads off to make it easier to hang them up.

Now for my 'C' clamps I simply attached a length of flat bar (like 1/4" X 1") between 2 studs and simply hook them opened on that flat bar, usually in pairs or matched sets.

 

[terdybukrat]

I would agree with Doughknob. Likely work to hold while you clamp.