Panel Glue-Up Calculator

Professional panel glue-up calculator for woodworking projects. Calculate board requirements, glue coverage, clamp spacing, and assembly time for perfect wood panel construction.

Board Planning Glue Coverage Clamp Spacing Assembly Time

Panel Specifications

Panel Type

Panel Dimensions

Panel Width

Panel Length

Panel Thickness

Number of Panels

Board Specifications

Individual Board Width

Board Thickness

Wood Species

Grain Pattern

Glue & Assembly

Glue Type

Clamp Type

Glue Cost

Available Assembly Time

min

Assembly Analysis

Enter panel dimensions and board specifications to calculate material requirements, glue coverage, clamp spacing, and assembly guidelines for your panel glue-up.

Safety: Work in well-ventilated areas. Use proper clamp pressure. Have all materials ready before glue application. Work quickly during open time.

Disclaimer: Glue times and clamp spacing vary by glue type, wood species, temperature, and humidity. Adjust based on your conditions.

Panel Glue-Up & Edge Jointing Guide

Successful panel glue-ups require proper board preparation, clamp spacing, and glue application. This guide covers board selection, edge jointing, clamping techniques, and timing for flat, stable panels. Use our panel glue-up calculator for board and clamp requirements.

Board Selection & Preparation

Grain Pattern Arrangement

Alternate Growth Rings: Cup direction alternates to minimize overall panel cupping
Color Match: Arrange boards for visual consistency
Grain Direction: Keep grain running same direction for sanding/planing

Edge Jointing Requirements

Edge Straightness: Maximum 0.003" gap over board length (check with straightedge)

Use jointer or hand plane for straight, square edges
Spring joint (slight hollow in center) helps ends stay tight
Test fit before glue - boards should mate with no gaps

Clamp Spacing (Softwood): Every 8-12"

Clamp Spacing (Hardwood): Every 6-8"

Clamp Pressure: 150-200 psi (snug, not crushing)

Assembly Time (PVA Glue): 10-15 minutes open time

Clamping Technique

Professional Glue-Up Process:

Dry Fit First: Test clamp all boards, check alignment
Cauls: Use top/bottom cauls to prevent bowing
Alternate Clamps: Top, bottom, top pattern distributes pressure
Glue Application: Thin even coat on one edge only
Squeeze-Out: Small bead indicates good pressure (remove when rubbery)

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply a thin, even coat of glue to one surface of each joint. You should see slight squeeze-out when clamped, but not excessive dripping. Generally, 1-2 oz of glue per square foot of glue surface is sufficient for most wood species.

Space clamps 6-8 inches apart for most hardwoods, and 4-6 inches for softer woods. Alternate clamps above and below the panel to prevent bowing. Use cauls (straight boards) across the panel to distribute pressure evenly.

Alternate clamps above and below the panel, use cauls to distribute pressure, ensure boards are flat before gluing, and don't over-tighten clamps. Check for flatness during clamping and adjust as needed.

Alternating grain pattern (alternating growth ring direction) provides the most stable panel. Book matching creates beautiful patterns but may be less stable. Consider quarter-sawn boards for maximum stability.

Leave clamps on for at least 30 minutes for PVA glue, 1-2 hours for polyurethane glue. For full strength, wait 24 hours before heavy machining. Temperature and humidity affect cure time.

Yes, you can glue up sections and then join them, or use creative clamping methods like rope and wedges, or vacuum bags. Plan the glue-up sequence carefully and ensure you have adequate open time.