Creating An Incredible DIY Workshop

Great Tips for Creating a DIY Workshop

Your backyard shed is an ideal place to store tools and equipment, but that doesn’t mean it is the perfect place to build your next DIY project. With just a few renovations, however, it is possible to transform your shed into a safe and productive workspace and DIY workshop you can enjoy for years to come.

Safety and Tool Access

In any productive shed, workshop safety is your number one concern. Getting things off the floor and out of the way will prevent you from tripping and make it easier for you to see and access your tools and equipment. This means keeping your work table clear, which will give you the most room to operate. It also offers you peace of mind to start a project with a clean space instead of having to clean out clutter and old, unfinished projects before starting anew.

Maximizing Storage Space

The next thing you want to do is try to remove all the extra household items that tend to get in the way of you starting projects in the space. Storage is often hard to come by in sheds, so you will have to get a bit creative in maximizing the area. Try separating the space between “household” and “workshop” so that you can keep your relaxation space and your productive spaces separate. If you don’t have enough room, consider a smaller-space workbench, and look into off-site storage for your larger important items.

Workbench Tips

Your workbench, whether you build it or buy it, it must be designed to withstand the weight and wear through which you will put it. The base and legs should be sturdy, and the table should be nearly impossible to knock over. The top should be durable and difficult to ding or dent. Likewise, it’s important that you make sure your workbench is made of a material appropriate for your types of projects, too. If you’re short on space, try using a fold-down workbench that only stays in the down position when you need it.

Tool Organization

The most important items in your shed workshop are the tools. Ideally, you will build up a high-quality tool chest that is neatly organized and lockable. Smooth-rolling ball-bearing drawers work particularly well, and if you’re buying used drawers, beware of rust and dirt that could corrode your tools. Try installing drawer mats to keep your tools from sliding around and give your tools a softer cushion in which to rest. Also, try a pegboard for organizing your wall space and storing the tools that require quick access.

Plenty of Power Outlets Are a Must

It is critical that you make sure your shed workshop has enough power outlets to charge your tool batteries as well as power for your corded shop tools. Power outlets are also needed for lighting, heaters, AC units, radios, televisions, CNC machines, 3D printers, and computers, all of which you may end up wanting or needing in your workspace at some point. You simply can never have too many outlets, and it is generally safer to have more than enough. If necessary, bring in an electrician to ensure you can get all the power you will need.

Functional Lighting Tips

Sheds are usually dark, which means providing functional lighting is a necessary step in converting the space into a productive workspace. Track lighting is an easy option to install and gives your shed some directional overhead lighting. But because it can cast shadows, you’ll need another lighting source for tasks and for illuminating the whole room. A simple, adjustable work lamp is most helpful when you need bright focused lighting. For overall room light, try overhead fluorescent lights, which are both economical and bright.

Making Your Workshop Comfortable

Shed spaces are usually not insulated, which means they inevitably get hot and stuffy in the summer and uncomfortably cold in the winter. To be at peace in your workshop you’ll need to take the extra step to insulate your shed and set up some space heaters in you live in a particularly cold climate, as well as some portable floor or window AC units if you live in a hotter climate. A natural gas heater is a viable heat solution for areas that don’t have ductwork, and propane heaters can be a good option, but be sure not to use them in semi-enclosed spaces.

Workshop Ventilation

Workshops are easiest to use when they are well-ventilated, which is not often the case with sheds. Simply opening a window is typically not enough. A ceiling exhaust fan is a good start, but to make the air in your shed as clean as possible, then your ideal workshop should also include a dust collection system, central vacuum, and air ventilation system. All three of these systems will keep the dust, dirt, and other heavy particles off your clothes and out of your lungs, making for a safer work environment.

With these renovations, many of which you can install with little impact on your wallet, you will transform your shed from a storage shed into the DIY workshop of your dreams. With minimal effort, you can make a big difference in your shed and make it the productive, creative space you always wanted it to be. Be sure to check out Shed Windows and More for shed windows, shed accessories, and shed hardware to create a great DIY workshop.