Clamping squares aren’t a new idea, but this is my favorite design for them. When I’m assembling a cabinet, I use these simple plywood braces and spring clamps to ensure that each intersection is square and stable as I drive screws or set clamps. To make them, cut out a square piece of 3⁄4-in.-thick plywood on the tablesaw. Check the corners to be sure they are square. Then make the stopped cuts on the bandsaw as shown with the fence set at 21⁄2 in. To make a second, slightly smaller square, flip the waste piece around to its last two good edges from the tablesaw and repeat the process. To get two pairs of matching squares, repeat the process with a new plywood blank. Last, notch the ends to provide ledges for spring clamps.

—TONY O’MALLEY, Emmaus, Pa

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

3M Blue Tape

One of the most versatile accessories to have in the shop: from layout to seaming veneer. It has enough stretch to pull joints together.

Buy at Amazon

Rockler Deluxe Panel Clamp

These clamps can handle glue-ups between 10 in. and 36 in. wide, and boards up to 3 in. thick. Sliding feet attach to the lower bars with magnets, letting you position them quickly for stability on any surface. The spring-loaded jaws adjust easily, dropping into notches along the bars. And the powerful clamp handles clear the benchtop.

Buy at Amazon

Dubuque Clamp Works Bar Clamps - 4 pack

These clamps are as premium as their price is, but they're worth every penny. A few staffers have a small collection and they're almost always the first clamp they reach for.

Buy at Amazon