Yet Another Set of Cam Clamps

Jonas Karlsson

Published Jan 01, 2016

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Description

Large clamps that work with the 75mm wasteboard threaded insert spacing for universal reach.

4 camps cut from a single piece of 12" x 12" x 1/2" (actually 13mm) MDF.

Multiple bolt holes allow for better alignment of the clamping force vectors.

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9 Comments

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Specs

Material: MDF

Instructions

Cut out pieces

Carve out the clamps

Estimated time: 30 minutes

use the clamps

Place your material on your wasteboard Place the clamps around your material Choose the hole that best lines up with the nearest threaded insert hole. The clamping force is perpendicular to the edge where the clamp meets the material being clamped. You want to have this force be directed as close as possible through the mounting bolt, so that you are mostly dealing with compressive forces, and minimizing torque forces at the bolt/washer. Enjoy the carve.

Remakes

by Mike Anderson

Comments

I don't understand how to use these, it feels weird that I just don't get it. ha

Justin Haugens · April 04, 2016

Excellent first project I made these hold good and tight Thank you for sharing

Neil Berkeley · May 19, 2016

So, I feel really stupid, but I also don't get it... I made 4 of these and tried to clamp a rectangular piece as shown, but no matter how I arrange the clamps or rotate them, they keep moving one another, and the piece is never REALLY secure when I try to move it more than a little. Ideas?

Adam Lesser · April 04, 2017

P.S. It would be great if there was a video demo or something, I've looked for similar types of clamps on the 'net but i'm coming up short.

Adam Lesser · April 04, 2017

i modded them with a 3/4 hole and thy works great :) thanks for the design !

sebastien bujold · July 20, 2017

I think you have to have one side of your material against a solid stop or block, that will keep the clamps from moving

Gertjan Brons · September 25, 2017

Don't use 4 of these at the same time. Make an L bracket to anchor your work near the home point, and use these cams to push the work into the L bracket.

Adam Simmons · January 09, 2019

I love these clamps! Added to the corner square they make setting up quick, easy and repeatable. Thank you for posting these.

Bruce Wagner · September 08, 2019

I have to say thank you for sharing this. I would also like to add that old furniture made of MDF is a great way to save money on making clamps and other handy items. Less garbage and more gadgets to add in the workshop.

wesly denton · January 26, 2021