What Are C-Channels & What Are They Used For?

Woodworking and metalworking often go hand-in-hand, but if you don’t have the skills to do both, there are often a number of options that can keep your project on track.

Today, we’re going to take a look at C-channels. In this article, we’re going to answer some common questions we get, “what are C-channels?” and “what are C-channels used for?” Then, we’ll talk a little bit about the C-channels that we have in stock. They’re high-quality products that we’re excited to have, and they can be extremely useful when you’re working on a project like a large tabletop.

With that, let’s get started.

• What are C-Channels?
• What are C-Channels Used for in Woodworking?
• What Makes Our C-Channels Special?
• C-Channel Prep Tips
• Shop C-Channels from KJP Select Hardwoods

What are C-Channels?

A C-channel is a steel bar that, when looked at from a certain angle, is shaped like a C. There are slots in the bar so that the C-channel can be bolted into the wood.

What are C-Channels used for in woodworking?

So what are C-channels used for? In short, they reinforce tabletops to help prevent cupping and warping. You’ll install them on the underside of the tabletop. There are several handy step-by-step tutorials available on YouTube - they’re worth checking out!

What makes our C-channels special?

Back in the day, you’d have to purchase your C-channels from a metal shop, and laser cut the slots yourself. For many woodworkers, that’s impractical. Our C-channels help to eliminate that problem.

We started by ensuring that our supplier had a number of different C-channel lengths available. We carry 4 different C-channels sizes: 31”, 35”, 40”, and 52”. These C-channels are 2” wide with a 1” total depth and a ¾” wing depth.

Cutting the slots yourself is a chore, so all of our C-channels have pre-cut slots; they measure 1 ¾” in length. This allows for expansion and contraction without putting the structural integrity of your tabletop at risk.

We’ve also opted to use C-channels made out of high strength steel with a powder coating. This gives our product a hard wearing finish - our C-channels can take a beating and still look great.

Perhaps best of all, our C-channels are proudly made in Canada.

C-Channel Prep Tips

Before using the C-channel, you should clean it with acetone. This is actually the best practice for any metal you’re going to incorporate into your woodworking - it helps get rid of any dust, dirt, and oils that might have accumulated on the metal.

We also recommend using at least 2 C-channels per tabletop. For especially large tabletops (8 feet and longer), we recommend using 3 C-channels.

To save time and headaches, you might consider using a C-Channel Jig. Use this CNC cut plywood jig to easily install your C-Channel table stiffeners. Simply clamp down and use as a template guide with a 1/4" spiral bit & 1/2" (Outside Diameter) bushing. 

Shop C-Channels from KJP Select Hardwoods

We really like our C-channels - and we think you will too. That’s why we’re encouraging you to shop our C-channel selection - with the quality and variety we have in stock, you’re sure to find one that’s the right fit for your project.

Until next time, take care, and happy woodworking!

Shop C-Channels Today