This tip is by Billy from Newton Makes, who designed a simple yet powerful wide-mouth clamp jig that solves a common woodworking frustration: how to apply clamping pressure in the middle of a wide panel when your regular clamps just don’t reach.
Standard clamps have limited throat depth, which makes them great for edges but almost useless for clamping across the center of a large board or workbench. Billy’s solution is a clever jig that extends your clamp’s reach using scrap wood and basic hardware.
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The Clamping Problem Most Woodworkers Face
Most clamps are designed for edge pressure—they simply can’t reach across a panel or into the center of a workbench. This becomes a serious limitation when working with large glue-ups, cabinet assemblies, or center workpieces on benches pushed against a wall.
While some woodworkers use curved cauls to create pressure in the middle, that method depends on clamping access from both sides. If you can’t reach the other edge, that trick falls apart.
Billy’s jig solves this problem by applying downward clamping force in the middle of a panel using a vertical arm system. It doesn’t require special clamps and works with materials you already have.
A Simple but Effective Concept
The jig is built from four basic parts: two arms that sandwich the workpiece and two side pieces that hold everything in place. The bottom arm is fixed in position, while the top arm can be adjusted by moving a bolt through pre-drilled holes.
A regular clamp is then used to pull the arms together, pressing down firmly on the center of the workpiece. This design adds huge flexibility to your shop without requiring expensive wide-throat clamps.
Built from Scrap, Built to Last
One of the best aspects of Billy’s design is its simplicity. The jig is made from scrap wood—he used some old oak that wasn’t furniture-grade but still had structural integrity. Construction lumber works fine too, making this a truly accessible solution.
Letting the wood acclimate before assembly improves long-term performance. Milling it down to consistent thickness ensures the arms stay aligned and stable during use.
Smart Touches to Protect Your Work
A highlight of the jig is the addition of pivoting feet at the contact points. These help prevent damage to the surface while improving grip. Billy uses adjustable furniture leveling feet with small ball bases that conform to angled or uneven surfaces.
Some woodworkers use golf balls cut in half for similar clamping jigs. The goal is the same—distribute pressure evenly while avoiding dents or marks in the workpiece.
Real-World Performance
When tested, the jig delivers even, strong pressure across a wide surface. It solves a problem without requiring a tool purchase and performs just as well—or better—than expensive clamp alternatives.
If you want more grip, you could add non-slip pads or rubber boots to the contact points. Even small tweaks can make the jig more versatile depending on your materials and typical projects.
Why This Jig Deserves a Place in Your Shop
This wide-reach clamp jig is the kind of tool you don’t realize you need until you do. Once you’ve built one, you’ll find yourself using it in all kinds of situations—from panel glue-ups to clamping awkward assemblies where traditional clamps fall short.
It’s quick to build, cheap to make, and endlessly useful. Even better, it encourages creative thinking by using common materials and smart joinery instead of high-priced gear.
Tips to Customize It for Your Shop
- Use construction lumber if you don’t have scrap hardwood on hand
- Adjust the jig’s size based on the workpieces you typically build
- Add texture or rubber pads to the feet for better surface grip
- Drill extra height positions into the side pieces for more flexibility
- Keep a few different top arms on hand to accommodate different material thicknesses
A Simple Fix for a Common Problem
This jig is more than just a workaround—it’s a reliable shop solution that expands what your clamps can do. It demonstrates how thoughtful design and a few basic materials can make a huge impact on workflow and project quality.
Please support Billy by visiting his website here: https://www.newtonmakes.com/shop.