How to Use a Band Clamp

The band clamp is a great tool that has many versatile uses. It holds all sorts of woodwork projects together for gluing or nailing. It is especially useful for awkwardly shaped projects and picture frames. Anyone can use one by following a few simple steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Unhook the long side of the band if it is attached to the clamp. It may be locked into place by the small metal tabs on the clamp. If so, just flip the tab to release the band.

2. Press the handle of the clamp up against the object you wish to clamp and bundle the band on one side of the object.

3. Wrap the band snugly around the object you are clamping.

4. Feed the end of the band into the other side of the "Y" on the clamp.

5. Pull the band through the clamp with one hand. Use the other hand to hold the handle on the band clamp.

6. Lock the band in place by flipping the metal lock once it is as tight as you desire.

7. Unlock the band when complete by flipping the metal lock in the opposite direction.

Tips & Warnings

• If your clamp comes with clamping blocks, use them on the corners of whatever you are clamping to get square edges.
• Some clamps lock differently. If you are unsure how to lock your specific model, check the directions that came with your clamp.
• Be careful using the clamp on objects that are much thinner or wider than the clamp. The "Y" at the base of the clamp, where the bands connect, can snap if overly strained by awkwardly sized projects.