Cam-cation clamp plans?

[Kermit]

Are there such? I've still got three battered Klemmsia clamps, and I know luthiers love these things, but our shop generates bushels of hardwood scraps that I'd like to turn into something useful. I like these things, but like handscrews, I'd prefer to make my own. I'd like to make a barrel of them with a throat reach of about 12". I could copy the ones I have, but am wondering if someone else has avoided pitfalls.

[Scott P]

Back in WB isue 146 there are some plans for some cam clamps. This information will cost you enough material so I can build a dozen or so for myself. :D

[Dave R]

Kermit, someplace I once found and downloaded a plan for a cam clamp. I'll see if I can find the link. If not, I could look for the plan--I printed it off I think--and mail it to you.

In the meantime, here's a source for a plan you could buy. www.woodworkersjournal.com/.../ (http://www.woodworkersjournal.com/.../) 5/19/197

[Dave R]

Here you go.
http://www.woodshoptips.com/tips/050304/index.htm

[Todd Bradshaw]

WoodenBoat #29 has an article on a cam-operated, long-reach clamp called the "Brenne Clamp". It was originally designed to help hold lapstrake planking in place for fastening. It's simple, made from hardwood, can be operated with one hand and is really elegant.

[Dave R]

I think the Brenne Clamp might be in 25 Woodworking Projects from WoodenBoat, too

[Kermit]

Thanks, Dave! That'll do nicely!

Unfortunately, our shop generates a lot of scraps in species of questionable utility for making clamps. We build a lot of high-end furniture using cherry, walnut, koa, but some oak, a little ash, and a lot of rock maple. We tend to whack off a foot or so from the ends of maple boards to get rid of checks and splits, and that makes good clamp stock.

This'll keep me busy on a Saturday or two.

[ddeaton]

Thanks Guys,
This is on my list also, but havent got to it yet.
Danny

[Dave R]

Kermit, I don't know why you couldn't use most of those woods for cam clamps like these. I guess I'd use the harder woods for the bars but the koa wood work alright for the jaws. These clamps are sturdy and light. I don't think you would want to use them for applying a gazillion tons of pressure anyway.

I designed and made some lightweight planking clamps to use on a cradle boat I built for my son before he was born. I made the jaws out of Baltic birch plywood because I had it handy and because I could use a dado set in the tablesaw to cut what would become mortises for the hinge and a long bolt with a wingnut on it.

I had several folks tell me that plywood wouldn't work but it did. I'd bet you could make the jaws for these bar clamps from it, too.

[David W Pratt]

For a glued lapstrake pram I built a few years ago, I made a bunch of clamps out of 12" pieces of furring strip. Cut two pieces, drill a hole about 2/3 down them, put in bolt, washer, butterfly nut. Some have 1/4x1/4 strips glued to clamping end, some to other end.
We call them Howard Clamps after the eminent Dr. Howard from the three stooges.
Good luck.