In this picture a customer turned a metal garage into a workshop
Setting up a workshop inside a garage appeals to many individuals for a variety of reasons. For one, you don’t have to be an expert woodworker or a dedicated do-it-yourselfer to thoroughly enjoy a garage workshop. You may want a place where you can make simple repairs on household appliances. Or perhaps you want a workshop for building and painting birdhouses. A garage workshop can serve any number of purposes. In addition, a workshop in the garage is a great place to retire to when things get a little too noisy inside the house. This week’s blog takes a look at how to turn your garage into a workshop.
Figure Out a Floor Plan
The first thing to do when creating a workshop is to measure the floor space in your garage. It’s wise to know how much space you’re working with before dividing the area into sections. Plan to put your workbench against a wall of the garage that has an electrical outlet. If you use an electric drill or another power tool, it’s convenient to have an outlet within arm’s reach. Make sure that you leave plenty of space to move around in front of your workbench. If you have a smaller garage, you may want to invest in a small workbench: Buying a workbench that is too big can overwhelm the space. You must also decide where you want to store your tools. Some people like to have a rolling tool chest so they can put it wherever they need it. Other people install cabinets above the workbench so all they have to do is reach up to get a screwdriver, wrench, or a hammer. Create an area for any other equipment you have, such as a table saw or a jig saw. In addition, there needs to be space set aside for a wet/dry vac, large garbage can, and wood storage rack (if you plan to work with wood). I suggest you make it your goal to set up a workshop that has everything you need including a lot of breathing room.
Work in the Light
Create a workshop that has plenty of light so you’ll have no trouble working there at any time of the day or night. If you have cabinets over your workbench, you may want to install lighting beneath them. This allows you to work on repair projects that require you to see the smallest springs and screws inside an appliance. Some people go with battery-powered LED lights that can attach to the bottom of a cabinet. These simple lights require no professional installation. Chances are good that you already have overhead lighting in your garage that supplies you with even more light for whatever project you’re working on.
Take a Seat
Choose a stool for your workbench that is made of solid material. Also, measure the height of the workbench so you can choose a stool that is neither too high nor too low. Ideally, you want a stool that allows you to sit comfortably for long periods of time. There are some stools available with an adjustable height mechanism. I suggest you get a stool with some padding and maybe even a backrest so you can lean back and admire your work.
Finally, take some extra time to plan the perfect garage workshop. Create a place that inspires you to be on the lookout for your next exciting project! Thanks for reading. – Alan
