David Munkittrick

Clamping Cauls from Scrap 2x4s

David Munkittrick
Duration:   3  mins

Description

Make big glue-ups a cinch with clamping cauls made from scrap 2x4s. For cabinet cases and edge banding, you can’t beat clamping cauls to make glue-ups go faster and to spread clamping pressure evenly. These shop assistants allow you to do bigger glue-ups with fewer clamps.

Shop Made Clamping Cauls

There’s no reason to buy clamping cauls. All you need is scrap material. There are some distinct characteristics you need the caul material to have so they work as they’re supposed to. We’ll fill you in on the best material to use for cauls, and what you should avoid.

Making a caul is simple, and we’ll teach you how to do it. There are a few steps in making sure the caul is straight and true, and shop-friendly, and we’ll provide everything you need to make that happen.

In this video, you’ll also learn about identifying the “crown” or high spot, toward the middle of the piece of wood you’ve turned into a caul. You’ll mark the crown with arrows so you can take advantage of it when setting up your glue-up.

You’ll Use Your Cauls Often

Most of our woodworking projects involve some gluing and clamping. And most woodworkers have a collection of clamps used for woodworking, but you can never really have enough. With clamping cauls in you workshop, you’ll be able to take on bigger projects. Plus, you’ll find yourself wondering how you lived without them!

Share tips, start a discussion or ask one of our experts or other students a question.

Make a comment:
characters remaining

5 Responses to “Clamping Cauls from Scrap 2x4s”

  1. Mike

    I was taught to make the crown on a caul rather than rely on hit or miss finding one, especially since he said he jointed and planed the wood. A hand plane can be used to create the crown.

  2. Gary R. Dunn

    Would like to know more about cauls and small projects jeeps and trucks

  3. Morgan Bearden

    Did I miss something? You showed us what a caul is but I was expecting to see a demonstration on how this fellow makes his. Did I miss something?

  4. Scott

    How long should the 2x4 sit and acclimate before it's steady enough to be turned into a caul?

  5. Karl Michael

    need info on cauls

Get exclusive premium content! Sign up for a membership now!