Finds: Merle Clamp

Clamping and gluing projects with more than four sides is a lot like trying to nail Jello to the wall.  It moves.  It slides.  It comes apart.  And that’s just while you’re trying to get the clamps on – to say nothing of whether or not they hold in the correct position.  When you’re in for that kind of gluing/clamping roller coaster ride of fun you might reach for a Merle clamp. 

It’s a type of band clamp (or “web clamp” depending on which school of thought you subscribe to). The band can be expanded to a 69” x 69” and can squeeze down to 2-5/8″ x 2-5/8″ providing secure and even gripping power across all the joints.

The flexible jaw inserts are made of high impact ABS plastic and are non-marring and easily removed. The “dual pivot” feature allows the Merle to clamp virtually any size or shape joint — including circles and ovals.

The best feature about the Merle might be that the strap area can be extended to any length by using standard 3/8″ steel banding or strapping.  This one could save some swearing and re-gluing.

Pricing onthe MLCS site starts at around $27.

Merle Clamp [MLCS]