Tips:
Gluing:
The idea here is to have everything go smoothly. Sounds easy, should be easy, what can go wrong. The more pieces, the bigger they are, the more joints to glue, the more clamps that are used, does this piece go this way or that way ..ummmmmmm...the glue is starting to set up and you haven't even got the clamps on yet. Is your blood pressure up yet?? Try this:
1. dry fit everything before gluing using your clamps and check for joint fit and have the piece sitting level and square on the floor or table.
2. remove the clamps from above, place them close and dismantle your project carefully and put the pieces in some semblance of order so you know which piece goes where.
3. if this project can be glued and put together with clamps within two minutes a yellow cabinetmakers glue will work just fine. Otherwise consider using LV 2002 GF glue or a polyurethane glue (about 15 min. open time) or a long setting epoxy (60 min or more open time). Follow directions that come with the glue.
4. I use a small paint roller (plastic handle) for most glue applications (yellow PVA cabinetmakers glues) unless it is a joint or smaller piece where I will just squeeze from the bottle. With a bit of practice you get a nice even spread of glue using a roller. You want the joint to be completely covered with glue, but if you have glue dripping everywhere after clamping try using less next time, just a little squeeze out is perfect with no drips. I find it best to just let any glue squeez out dry and clean it up later with a chisel or scraper. Cleaning up with a damp cloth or even a dry cloth immediately after gluing leaves the risk of a stain showing up during finishing later.
5. clamp your project, but keep in mind where clamp pressure is being applied so place the clamps carefully. Remember that once this is glued up there is no turning back. Make sure everything is placed properly and squared up.
6. If this has been a big project, this is a good time to just take the rest of the day off and relax. Go for a walk or read a book.
Drawer Pulls: Try this if you are finding it difficult to find that perfect pull for a drawer. There are literally thousands of buttons with shanks that can be found in different sizes and colours. They may make the perfect pull for a drawer or box lid. Here is an example:
