It pays to make decorative elements (like these paterae) in bunches, because you get better results than you would if you made just one or two pieces when you need them. When you make them in batches, however, you end up with lots of clamped-up patterns in varying stages of completion. To see at a glance what’s being clamped, I use clear acrylic for the top clamping cauls. You can get small pieces for next to nothing at your local plastic store. Any Plexiglas thicker than ¼ in. will work, but grab the thickest they have. This approach is helpful any time you need to see under a clamping caul. Also, unlike wood cauls, clear acrylic ones don’t need to be taped to resist glue.
—Jim Shapiro, San Francisco, Calif.
Sign up for eletters today and get the latest techniques and how-to from Fine Woodworking, plus special offers.
