Storing Clamps

Storing Clamps

Rugged-and-ready pipe clamp rack

We loved this sturdy, easy-to-build pipe clamp rack designed by reader Dennis Fitzgerald. There’s no fuss when you’re hanging up the clamps, and they’re just as easy to take down when you need them. Plus, the generous width and depth of the 2x4 won’t let a clamp fall off the rack if you bump the bottom end.

Reader's Digest Storing Clamps

Build the rack from scrap pieces of 2x4 and a 3/4-in.-thick backer board of whatever length you need. Cut 6-in. lengths of 2x4, then saw a 45-degree corner on the bottom ends so it’s easier to slide the clamps into the rack. Measure the outer diameter of your pipes, then add 1/8 in. for clearance between blocks. Space and screw the 2x4s along the backer board, creating gaps 1/8 in. wider than the pipe’s outside diameter. Finally, screw the backer board to the wall and load it up!

Pipe clamp cradle

This handy under-mount rack keeps your clamps right where you need them.

Reader's Digest Pipe clamp cradle

Simply cut a series of 1-1/4 in. diameter holes along the center line of a 2x6 and then rip the 2x6 in half to create the half-circle slots. Next, screw 1x4 sides and top to the cradle and screw it to the bottom of your workbench.

Pipe clamp pincushion

Reader's Digest Pipe clamp pincushion

The pipe clamps are calling, the pipe clamps are calling—for storage, that is. So furniture maker David Munkittrick responded with this slick idea. Cut two 12 x 16-in. pieces of 3/4-in. plywood and temporarily screw or nail them face to face. Drill 1-1/4 in. holes (if your pipes are 1 in. outside diameter), spaced 3 in. apart, through both pieces. Pry the plywood apart, then screw them to two 16-in. long pieces of 2x8 to make an open-ended box. Add a couple of narrow 3/4-in. boards on the bottom for feet, then set the box in a convenient spot along a shop wall. To keep it from sliding, attach it to the studs with screws driven through the 2x8s.