Gluing woodblocks?

Question

While trying gluing a woodblock of 9 alternating slabs of teak & jatoba. I glued up two blocks, one with yellow glue and the other with Tite Bond. Wow, it reminded me of the "whack the groundhog" game you see on fall fairs - as soon as I started tightening the clamps all them slabs kept squishing and slithering out from all sides. It looked pretty funny at the time but I'm hoping for some hints as the blocks I ended up with were all but flat :( Bart. Yup, a beginner alright...

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AHilton · Accepted Answer

1) Use less glue. Only a thin film is needed.  If the blocks are moving asyou clamp them, you've got way too much glue.2) Glue up only 2 or 3 pieces together at a time.  Let dry a little and thenadd a couple more and so on.3) Build yourself a gluing jig.  Basically just a piece of plywoodunderneath (coated with wax paper so it doesn't stick) with runners on 2sides.  You clamp your runners to the plywood underneath to the size of yourblocks so that the blocks don't move as you clamp from the other direction.If your blocks are small enough, a bandclamp or rubberband might workinstead.- Andrew

Ken Grunke · Answer

Try letting them sit for 5 minutes before clamping. *Usually* works for me. Apply clamping pressure slowly and evenly.

Jgklr2732 · Answer

Place a few particles of sand between the slabs after applying the glue. Itwill prevent sliding.Joe keeler

George · Answer

Not to mention honing your tools as you turn it.

Bart V · Answer

Thanks for all the help folks, greatly appreciated. Bart. Check my most up to date email address at:

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custom compensated banjo bridges, tabs, stained glass:

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**may your moments of need be met by moments of compassion**

Gluing woodblocks?

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