These nesting square frames, which I call multitask shop helpers, take up very little space but pack several functions into a small package.

The frames are great for both panel and carcase glue-ups. They are notched to hold bar clamps on one side and pipe clamps on the other, which makes them handy for panel assemblies. And the frames can be used to help keep a carcase, a box, or a drawer square during assembly.

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The frames are handy for cutting stock, too. I use two of them to elevate a board above my bench for crosscutting. In addition, each frame is the same height as my miter-saw bed, so they can be used as outfeed support there.

Drawings by Jim Richey

Drawings by Jim Richey

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