Here There Be Dragons - Clamping & Glueing Handmade Toy Dragon

I have just started making dragons. They are pretty simple to assemble, but gluing and clamping can be a challenge. You need to get the legs lined up correctly so the toy dragon will stand like they should. The parts always want to move around.

Handmade Wooden Toy Baby Dragon in the Clamps
Handmade Wooden Toy Baby Dragon in the Clamps


Handmade Wooden Toy Baby Dragon Completed
Handmade Wooden Toy Baby Dragon Completed


I use Titebond No-Run, No-Drip Wood Glue for this. This glue dries clear, sets up fast, and doesn't seem to move around asmuch.

Titebond No-Run, No-Drip Wood Glue
Titebond No-Run, No-Drip Wood Glue


I prefer to use my Dewalt DWHT83191 4-1/2" Small Trigger Clamps for clamping. They deliver more than enough pressure and the one hand operation eases clamping.


Dewalt DWHT83191 4-1/2" Small Trigger Clamp
Dewalt DWHT83191 4-1/2" Small Trigger Clamp

Spring clamps are fast but difficult to get aligned and the pressure isn't adjustable.

Bessy Spring Clamp
Dewalt DWHT83191 4-1/2" Small Trigger Clamp


I have some small F-Clamps but these almost require three hands. I'm not a big fan of these clamps they are the right size for many job but they will slip. I have had new ones that would not hold. Bessy has replaced some of them but it is a huge pain to get them to do it. If you buy these look them over closely and test them by clamping something tight. Wiggle them around to see if they come loose. In many cases they will not clamp at all.


Bessey 4x2-inch Bar Clamp LM2-004
Bessey 4x2-inch Bar Clamp LM2-004

I also have some Irwin Quick-Grip Micro Bar Clamps. These have prroved to be to light to provide the proper pressure needed to squeeze the glue joints down tight. They are good for other things but not for clamping legs on dragons.

Irwin Quick-Grip Micro Bar Clamp
Irwin Quick-Grip Micro Bar Clamp

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Handmade Wooden Dinosaur Pterodactyl Figurine Handmade and Finished From My Buddies Dinos Collection - 655979018

Image
Buy This Dinosaur Today My Buddies Dinosaur Collection All My Dinosaurs Welcome to my shop, where I handcrafted this unique Pterodactyl dinosaur figurine from carefully selected hardwoods using traditional woodworking tools. Approximate Dimensions: Length: 6-5/8 inches Height: 4 inches I use a custom blend of mineral oil, beeswax, and carnauba wax to give each figurine a smooth, durable, renewable, and natural finish that enhances the beauty of the wood. Because working with natural wood is unique, every dinosaur I create is one-of-a-kind. The item you receive may vary slightly from the one pictured in the photos, but that's the beauty of it. The natural variations in wood grain, color, and knots add to the character and charm of each piece, making it truly special. I take great pride in creating these handmade treasures in Tallahassee, Florida, USA. Don't hesitate to contact me if you have a specific wood preference or want a custom order. I'll do my best to accommodate yo...
Read more

Wooden Toy Lorry Truck My First Version Made For My Grandson - 705872553

Image
  Handmade Wooden Toy Lorry Truck From The Quick N Easy 5 Truck Fleet - Left Side Front View Buy This Truck Now  My Easy 5 Truck Fleet My Toy Truck Collection I created a fleet of toy trucks for my grandson almost a year ago. Unfortunately, he started playing with them before I had the chance to take photos. All the parts for the truck, except for the wheels, can be made from wood purchased at a big box store. I used a scroll saw to cut the body from a 2x4 section, but a piece of 2x6 would be easier. I had to reduce the body size to avoid the rounded corners on the 2x4. I also had to adjust the sides of the bed to clear the wheels. The toy truck is not detailed, but the simple design makes it easier to create than more complex toys. Plus, there are fewer bits and pieces to make, which reduces the likelihood of breakage. I've considered adding fenders to the design. I used pine to make the toy truck because it's lighter than other options, and I prefer to keep the weight o...
Read more

Wooden Toddlers Puzzle Black Kitten - A Simple Two Piece Tray Puzzle Handmade and Painted From My Puzzle Pals Collection - 645535259

Image
  Buy This Puzzle Today My Puzzle Pal Collection My Puzzle Collection   This adorable wooden puzzle features a playful black kitten crafted from select-grade hardwood. Each piece is hand-painted with colorful acrylic paint and finished with a coat of shellac for durability.   Approximate Size: Height: 3.5 inches Width: 3.5 inches Thickness: 0.75 inch   I take pride in creating high-quality and engaging toys for little ones, and this cat puzzle is no exception. Its four-piece tray design makes it easy to assemble and store, and the pieces are painted on only one side to assist with matching. Perfect for little ones just starting to explore the world of puzzles, this cat puzzle can also be used as a freestanding stacking toy, providing fun and developmental benefits.   At my workshop in Tallahassee, Florida, USA, I carefully assemble and test each toy to ensure the highest quality. It's important to note that all my items are handmade using natural wood and wood p...
Read more