Q:
My clamps have plastic pads that leave stains on the wood. Will these stains affect my finish?
Russel Chandler, Perham, MN
A:
I know just what you’re talking about, and being an engineer, I ran some tests to find answers. I discovered that those stains are not visible under an oil finish, but they show up as unsightly blotches under waterborne finishes. So, with waterborne finish, use wooden clamping cauls or pads during glue-up to prevent the plastic pads from contacting the clean wood surface. After finishing, you’ll see nothing but beautiful wood grain.
Fine Woodworking Recommended Products
Veritas Wheel Marking Gauge
A wheel-type gauge is the easiest to use, and this wonderful Veritas model is a steal at $38.
Veritas Micro-Adjust Wheel Marking Gauge
The adjuster runs through the beam from a small knob at the back end right to the cutting wheel, which moves in and out as you turn the knob. This arrangement works well but makes adjustments a two-handed operation, requiring a little more effort.
Marking knife: Hock Double-Bevel Violin Knife, 3/4 in.
This heavy, double-beveled knife stays on track in all directions, and works just fine without adding a handle.
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