In woodworking, what is meant by the term "clamping"?

The term "clamping" in woodworking specifically refers to the action of holding pieces of wood together tightly during the drying process of glue. When adhesive is applied to the joint between two pieces of wood, it is crucial to maintain pressure on those pieces to ensure a strong bond as the glue sets. Clamps, which can come in various forms such as bar clamps, pipe clamps, or corner clamps, are used to achieve this tight hold. The effectiveness of the glue joint largely depends on the pressure applied and the stability of the alignment between the pieces while the adhesive cures.

Other activities related to woodworking, such as securing pieces with screws, filling gaps with wood filler, or cutting wood into smaller sections, serve distinct purposes and are employed at different stages of a woodworking project. However, clamping specifically targets the joint formation and the glue setting process, making it essential for achieving durability and strength in the final piece.