Where to find sash clamps for laminating top
After exhaustively exploring pretty much every other possible option, I've concluded that there's no escape from making a workbench. I've been lurking around for literally years thinking about doing this, and finally have the means to do so (namely, I have another bench - I really do think you need a bench to make a bench).
I've also come to the conclusion that the best way to make a solid benchtop is to laminate together construction grade pine 90x45s.
But that requires clamps. Lots of clamps. For a two metre benchtop, using cauls, I'd imagine ten would be a good number.
I've no interest in making big stuff in the near future, so I simply won't need that many clamps again for anything. Also, I have kept my collection of tools to a minimum as I rent and need to be quite portable - I don't own any power tools or machines for this reason.
In other words, contrary to the old adage, one can have too many clamps.
So where can I get hold of clamps in the Eastern suburbs, possibly for hire? I was thinking of a local TAFE or woodworking club or something but I'd not be sure of where to start looking.
Incidentally, even the cheapest clamps (pipe clamps) come in at $32 each, which is $320 - more than the lumber. That's not including the pipe, which is tricky to find. I've been looking for second-hand clamps but they are still not at all cheap.