Awesome Clamps

This specialized gadget from Strong Hand Tools is a welder’s best friend. It uses powerful magnets to hold two pieces of steel together at 45º or 90º angles without clamping. It provides up to 90 lb. of pulling force and is easy to remove thanks to its magnet deactivation switch.

Clamps are readily available at your local hardware store, but if you’re industrious, you could always make your own. Pask Makes shows off a square clamp he made from steel, and walks through the process of building one with handheld tools, then ramping up production with professional workbench tools.

Atypyk’s clever bookshelf ensures your books never fall over by clamping them in place. Simply install the two wooden brackets and place the clamp bar, then set your books into its jaws. Measures 60cm x 14cm (~23.6″ x ~5.5″).

Expert tool maker Woodpeckers’ precision corner squares are just what you need when assembling projects with 90-degree connections. They securely hold together stock from inside or outside, aligning perfectly so you can install fasteners or glue. They work with the pictured screw thread clamps or off-the-shelf clamps.

Magnets are extremely useful for welding steel, as they can be used to hold pieces securely together without clamps. Strong Hand Tools magnets are unique thanks to their double-jointed design, which allows them to hold round, flat, or square metal parts at any angle, and in a snap.

Hold any cloth, tarp, or other fabric firmly in place without the need for grommet holes. These heavy duty plastic grips grab tighter as more tension is applied. The diminutive Minnow Gripper holds up to 175 lb, while the 5″ long Mighty Gripper holds up to 150 lb.