Clamping System For Threaded Wasteboard

 ​Now that you followed my previous blog and created your own threaded waste board, it's time to make some clamps for it.  You could buy some clamps like the Rockler Hold Down Clamps or Oops Clamps from Suck It but we want some clamps that will clamp from the side and not have to worry if we hit them accidentally with a bit.  We're going to be making some Cam Clamps.  We'll be using the hardware you bought from the waste board blog post to hold them down (but I'll link them below also).  You'll need at least a 1' x 1' x 3/4 piece of mdf (or plywood) as the material to make them out of (it's ok if you have a bigger piece, there will just be waste left over).  If you bought a 4x8 sheet of mdf to make the waste board, you should easily have enough left over for this project.
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​Myers Woodshop Cam Clamps

Purchase the file from my etsy shop. 
​It helps support what i do so I can create more free content :) 
It also includes an .SVG file for those who want to use a different program.

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You'll notice their is two different sized clamps included in the file.  There are times that smaller ones may not provide enough length to reach the work piece so I created a slightly bigger one.  I've included work holding tabs to secure the clamps while they get cut out.  You'll have to cut them once your file is finished cutting.  I like to use a multi-tool like this, Dewalt 20v Multitool, for easy removal.  You'll use the bit that came with your Shapeoko, the #201, 1/4 up-cut bit, to make all the cuts.  If your not using that bit for some reason, make sure to use an up-cut bit, as you'll be drilling holes and a down-cut bit is never a good choice for hole drilling.  It pushes the material down and you run the risk of starting a fire.
There is a hole within a hole in the center of the clamp.  The larger, shallower hold will hold the washer, and the middle through hold will house the bolt.
This file was designed to use the 1/4 upcut bit included with the Shapeoko. If you have a 1/8 bit it would be ideal to 'drill' the smaller holes with it.  Generally, it is recommended to use a bit 1/3 of the size hole your going to create.  If your having problem drilling the hole with the #201, use a 1/8 upcut bit. As always, make sure to use breathing protection and a vacuum when working with mdf!
When your going to clamp, start off with the clamp upside down, then slowly twist it clockwise until it engages the material.  It's best to have even clamping pressure along all the corners of the work piece.  Too much pressure and it could bow the board up and throw off the cut.
Happy CNCing!
Ben

1/4 - 20 hex bolts - https://amzn.to/2UgneU5
1/4 - 20 washers - https://amzn.to/2KXoFST