Use a strap or belt as an improvised clamp for light-duty work
Wrap a strap around a simple assembly to hold it while you align parts.
Fix, Fasten & Secure
Clamps & Temporary Holds
Workshop holds, surface protection and light-duty positioning while you work.
Practical tricks
View all tricksUse scrap wood pads to protect surfaces when clamping
Place scrap pads between clamp jaws and the work to spread pressure and reduce marks.
Use spring clamps for quick workshop holds
Use spring clamps for fast, light holds where exact pressure is not critical.
Use wedges for simple temporary positioning
Use small wedges to hold a workpiece or gap while you check alignment.
Use weights as temporary holds while glue sets
Use stable weights to keep light parts in contact while adhesive cures.
Guides
View all guidesChoosing a clamp for a small DIY job
How to choose between spring clamps, bar clamps, straps and simple weights.
How to avoid marking surfaces when clamping
Practical ways to spread pressure and protect finished surfaces.
Temporary holds versus proper fixing
How to tell when a hold is only for positioning and when a real fixing is needed.
Glossary
View glossary
Bar clamp
A clamp with jaws that slide along a bar for wider workpieces.
Caul
A straight piece used to spread clamping pressure over a wider area.
Clamp pressure
The squeezing force applied by a clamp or improvised hold.
Spring clamp
A quick clamp with spring-loaded jaws for light-duty holding.
Workholding
The way a workpiece is restrained so it stays stable while you work.