Yet Another Set of Cam Clamps
Project by
Jonas Karlsson
Published On
January 01, 2016
General Information
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.
Open in Easel®
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.
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