We posted a little while ago on some frame clamp variations, including cast frame clamps that are taller than the machined frame clamps, but have the same footprint as our mini frame clamps. We have been using the cast clamps for a while now and have decided to add them to our product range.
Using the frame clamp with a ratchet
Our new cast frame clamps have a flat back with rounded corners that can be used with the push-block and wedge style system or with a ratchet. The cast clamps are 26mm tall, which is about the width of a common ratchet strap that you find at the hardware store.
Using a ratchet strap with the Mitre Maker Frame clamps
In this project, we use the new cast frame clamps with a ratchet to glue up 65mm wide interlocking mitred boards for a picture frame. Using the ratchet is very quick to set up and I know that frame pieces this wide wont bow from using too much pressure with the ratchet. For thin frames, the wedge system is better as you can apply just the right amount of pressure.
The frame clamps prevent the ratchet from compressing the outside corners of your frame and using the ratchet system also allows me to turn the frame over and check the joint on the other side of the frame while it is still being glued up.
The cast frame clamps have similar advantages of the mini frame clamps including a gap at the apex of the mitre to allow the tongue and groove overhangs to stick out and tabs to hold your workpiece off the glue-up table.
Sets of 4 cast clamps are now available in our shop.
