How to Fix a Seam Split in a Wooden Box

Fix spit seams with glue and clamps.

Splits seams in wooden boxes are quite common. Stress from constant contracting and expanding puts pressure on wood. It separates along grain and glue seams. Even if the wood is sealed, it can dry out and split. A split might be small at first, but if it's not stopped, it can run the full length of the panel on the box. The best way to deal with split seams is to stop them in their tracks with glue and clamps.

Things You'll Need

• Masking tape
• Putty knife
• Glue
• Bar clamp
• Chisel

Instructions

1. Place strips of masking tape down both sides of the seam, as close to the seam as possible.

2. Insert the tip of a putty knife into the seam to open it slightly. Run a bead of glue along the open seam with a glue bottle.

3. Force the glue down into the seam with the tip of your finger. Repeat until the seam is saturated with glue. Remove the putty knife.

4. Place a bar clamp on opposing sides of the box. Apply pressure to the clamp until glue oozes out the seam. Wait one hour for the glue to dry.

5. Remove the clamp. Peel off the tape. Use the tip of a chisel to scrape off any residual dried glue.

Tips & Warnings

• Examine the box and find any and all splits or cracks. Glue them all at the same time. Use two clamps or more if the crack is longer than 6 inches.

• If your box is small or delicate, use hand clamps or lighter pressure to prevent your box from being damaged by the clamps.