Gluing Up a Hollow Column

Gluing up a column, or any multi-sided object, can be a challenge. Getting uniform clamping pressure isn’t easy, unless you use just the right clamp. The key to good (and easy) clamping on multi-sided objects is using a strap clamp. Strap clamps allow you to completely wrap the object, getting perfectly uniform pressure from every direction.

Sequence matters

When you make a column the order of operations is really important. Don’t try to assemble the entire column at one time. Put each half of the column together and, after the glue is dry, flatten the remaining faces. This guarantees that the two faces will line up, even if you missed slightly when cutting the angles on all those parts. Think about it; if you miss each angle you cut by only a tiny bit, there’s no way the column will go together. Following the procedure we’ve outlined for you here, and using the right clamps, will make assembly a lot easier.

Strap clamps are great for putting mitered frames together, too. We can apply the same idea of uniform pressure to picture frames. The best way to pull the miters together is to pull on all four of them at the same time. Strap clamps excel at this.

General assembly tips

There aren’t many projects that go together without gluing and clamping. Whether you’re assembling a cabinet carcase, cutting board, table, or doing a panel glue-up, WWGOA has lots of tips and tricks to make it go better.

More info

For more information on Bessey’s Strap Clamps, visit their website.

7 Responses to “Gluing Up a Hollow Column”

1. Laura Fairweather March 27th, 2021

   If you were to use this wood column outdoors, is outdoor glue enough to keep it held it together? If not, what would you suggest to fasten the sides? I’d prefer it is not visible. Thanks!

   Reply

   • Customer Service March 31st, 2021

     Hello Laura,

     Thank you for contacting us.

     If you were to use this wood column outdoors, is outdoor glue enough to keep it held it together? If not, what would you suggest to fasten the sides? I’d prefer it is not visible. Thanks!

     https://www.wwgoa.com/video/gluing-up-hollow-column-016819/

     If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-253-0822, or chat with us on our site.

     We greatly appreciate your business!

     Sincerely,

     Lindsay
     Woodworkers Guild of America Video Membership

     Reply

2. Jim June 21st, 2019

   Where do you purchase the adhesive sandpaper roll used in this video?

   Reply

   • Customer Service June 25th, 2019

     Dear Jim,

     Thank you for your patience. In response to your question-

     Here you go: https://amzn.to/2RzpuEJ

     Paul
     Woodworkers Guild of America

     Reply

3. Paul Samarin June 17th, 2019

   You’re a great explainer, generally, but I think you might want to edit in a graphic advising to sand *both* halves flat. It should be obvious, of course, but some might not get it. Thanks for all the vids.

   Reply

4. CHRIS June 17th, 2019

   Strap clamps… 2nd least favorite tool in the shop. Evil necessity. :D Cheers, Chris.

   Reply

5. Bart Steven Goldberg May 27th, 2019

   I would question the use of tape for “clamping” the two half sections, then using the band clamps at the end. You won’t get the needed clamping pressure from just the tape. I would consider using either splines or dominos on those joints to ensure they are strong.

   Reply