Woodworking Tip: Clamp Pads that Stay Put

After struggling with trying to keep loose pads in place when using pipe clamps, I hit upon the idea of attaching the pads to the clamps. To accomplish this, I simply drill a hole for the pipe through a scrap of plywood. I typically use 1/2" or 3/4" ply, cutting the pieces an inch or two wider than the clamp’s jaws to better distribute the clamping pressure. I position the holes so the bottom edge of the pad is just barely above the bench surface when the clamp is standing on its feet. And I can customize the height of the pad depending on what I’m clamping.

—Perry Werner,
Fergus Falls, Minnesota

Boosting Clamp Pad Performance

Keeping clamp pads in place is essential for consistent, even pressure during glue-ups. Loose or misaligned pipe clamp pads can create dents, uneven pressure or even shift your workpieces out of alignment. By attaching custom pad clamps to your pipe clamps, as described by Perry, you gain greater control and repeatability.

Perry’s method not only keeps the pads from slipping but also gives you a larger bearing surface, reducing the risk of marring your project. You can tailor the shape and thickness of the pad clamp to match your project needs—whether you’re gluing up wide panels or applying pressure to narrow edges. A well-fitted plywood pad can also help absorb some of the force, giving a bit of cushioning where it's needed most.

Why Pad Clamp Placement Matters

Correct pad placement helps ensure your clamps stay balanced and stable, especially when working with pipe clamps that tend to roll. Having your pipe clamp pads sit just above the bench, as Perry suggests, adds stability when positioning parts. It also allows you to line up multiple clamps quickly for faster setups.

Pipe clamp pads are a small but powerful upgrade that can save you time and improve glue-up results. To see how critical proper clamping is during panel glue-ups, check out our article on Perfect Flat-Panel Glue-Ups. It dives deeper into how clamping strategies and pad setups can impact the final quality of your work.

Find the Right Clamps for Your Projects

If you’re thinking about refining your clamp setup or simply want to see what other clamping options are out there, take a look at our full selection of woodworking clamps and vises. From bar clamps to F-style clamps, having the right tools on hand can make clamping more efficient and your glue-ups more reliable.