So what's the best workholding tool for woodworking?...

April 10, 2025

So what’s the best workholding tool for woodworking?

Short answer: You need grip—without the hassle of traditional clamps.
Better answer: You need Gecko Blocs by Bench Critters.

What Are Gecko Blocs?

Gecko Blocs are high-friction, workbench grips designed to hold your workpiece firmly in place with less need for clamps. They're a smarter alternative to clamping in many situations, using simple physics and quality materials to do a tough job brilliantly.

Made from a custom silicone compound, they offer powerful grip while protecting your materials. But that’s just the start.

Why Gecko Blocs Beat Traditional Clamps (and Other Gripping Tools)

Let’s break down why these little blocks punch way above their weight in the workshop:

Fast, Friction-Based Grip

Just drop a few under your material, and the high-friction surface holds everything steady. No twisting knobs, no tools, no wasted time.

3 Height Adjustments

Gecko Blocs aren’t just grippy—they’re versatile. Use them at three different working heights, perfect for:

Elevating your piece for edge access
Creating space for clamps underneath
Lifting parts for painting or drying

Waterproof, Washable, and Heat-Resistant

These are built for real shop life. Glue? Paint? Dust? Heat? Bring it on. Gecko Blocs are:

100% waterproof
Fully washable
Highly heat resistant So go ahead—use them anywhere, for any project, and hose them off when you're done.

Gentle on Surfaces

Unlike clamps that can dent or mar your materials, Gecko Blocs provide a cushioned, non-marring grip. That’s key for working with softwoods, finished pieces, or sensitive materials.

Space-Saving and Shop-Friendly

Each set includes six Gecko Blocs, plus a wall-mounted holder that keeps them off your bench and ready when you need them. It’s a simple way to free up shelf space and stay organized.

Perfect For:

Sanding, Routing, Clamping
Gluing and panel assembly
Holding parts for painting or staining
Flipping or rotating workpieces mid-project
Any time you need fast, flexible grip

Real-World Workflow Boost

Let’s face it: setting up and adjusting clamps takes time. Gecko Blocs simplify your process so you can focus on the work—not the setup. And when you need to switch sides or reposition, you just lift and go.

Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Grip Without the Fuss

Whether you're building Gecko Blocs are a versatile, durable, and surprisingly powerful gripping solution. With multiple height settings, unbeatable durability, and no tools required, they’re a must-have for any serious workbench setup.