I decided to try biscuiting and gluing all the door and window trim in the house I just built for a friend. It was a little slower but I think it was a worth while method. I used the spring type clamp with the reverse pliers to attatch the clamp to the trim, I would then later install the casing when the glue dried.
My question is to those who do this and use the Jim Chesnut clamps. Are his clamps worth the price? I’m not an every day trim guy so I was hoping to get an opinion fromn those of you that use those clamps.
Thanks. Have a good day
Cliffy
Replies
Those are very high quality and if you use this type of clamping a lot, well worth the expense. You could buy 4 or 8 standard large or smaller "spring clamps" and just pilot a hole at each jaw end for a hard drywall, pointy, screw to go through it and you have a set of spring clamps for your mouldings. Glue one set, clamp, glue another, then with your biscuits swelled you could release the first and keep going to another set. Just be a bit careful for the released ones ....just an idea, to save $ if you don't need that other type much of the time, but they ARE great.
Edited 1/20/2006 12:50 am ET by zorrosdens
I'm no expert on this field, but i would recommend that you look at Gary Katz's website. I think it's http://www.garymkatz.com, there are reviews of this type of stuff and some alternate techniques. look at the stitching miters page.
Those look like beautiful but spendy clamps. I've thought about making miter clamps with spring clamps w/ nails or screws in the pads. Not as adjustable though.
good luck,
zak
I have the clamps and swear by them. I just used them to fit up casings for an interior french door I just installed. Measure, cut, biscuit, glue. I usually form the casings in my shop and transport if there are a limited number, if I'm doing more than just a few, I'll set up a space on the job.
The clamps make for an exceptionally tight miter, no gaps. You can move the casings around with the clamp installed, but the clamps are heavy (compared to your spring clamps.) I have the spring clamps, but only use them on small detail trim.
They are expensive, so if you're not using them frequently, it's probably wise to stick with the spring clamps. Or, buy Jim's clamps, use them, and then I'll take them off your hands for you : )
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