Some bowyers prefer forms that use clamps, over two-part forms and the airhose system previously mentioned. They feel that they can vary the pressure as needed, with clamps in certain spots such as the riser fadeout area. This style of form is lighter in weight and doesn't require the connecting hardware, the airhose and accessories, or a compressor or airpump. The following illustrations depict such a form and a single clamp. Clamp forms require a metal pressure strip formed to the profile of the lower form. This strip replaces the top form used in the airhose system. You will have good results with whichever system you decide to use.
Side plates are placed along the sides of a form to keep the laminations from sliding to the side, when the air hose is inflated. They are nothing more that thin metal plates that are slotted to allow height adjustment, and are held in place by wood screws. The adjustment feature lets you adjust the plates so that they are not sticking up higher than the laminations and pressure strip. If the plates are higher than the lams. they can keep the air hose from applying the required pressure during the time that the form is in the hot box.
