Custom corner cauls

Clamping boxes made with box joints or dovetail joints presents a challenge. If the pins extend beyond the outside faces, the clamps can't be placed at the corners to pull the joints tight.

These custom cauls wrap around the corners and have recesses that clear the protruding pins. I made each using two pieces of 3/4" hardwood with shallow recesses cut into the inside faces as shown. When the cauls are assembled, the recesses clear both the pins and any glue squeeze-out. Be sure to alternate adding clamping pressure in all directions as you tighten. As a bonus, the cauls protect the surfaces of the box from clamp marks.

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