Now that my garage shop is built out precisely to my liking, it’s time to get things organized. Especially in a small space it’s so important for tools and supplies to have their dedicated space, otherwise it starts to feel cluttered so quickly. This is actually the second time I’ve organized my shop, last time was when I was in my tiny shed shop. But make sure to check that video out if you haven’t seen it already, some of the tips I shared are still applicable now!
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Want to see this build in action? You can watch my build video here (+ make sure to subscribe to my channel)!
Tools
- Drawer Organizer Bins
- Milwaukee Packout System
- Clamp Organizers
- Rockler Dust Collector
- Rigid Dust Vac
- Festool Dust Extractor
- Dust Vac Attachment Hose
- Heavy Duty Drawer Slides (For In-Cabinet Drawers)
1. Shop Layout
Before you get to organizing all the little things in your shop you really want to think about workflow and functionality, this can help determine the footprint of your shop. When I was in the shed shop everything had to be mobile so I could roll it outside to use it. Now that I have a whopping 275 square feet I was able to set up the garage shop with a workstation, a miter saw station, and even an outfeed table for working with big pieces of wood to help keep everything running smoothly. I’ve got videos on exactly how I set up my shop, so check out the links at the bottom of this post to see how I did it!
2. Drawer Organization
There are so many options on how to organize drawers in your workshop. You can use things you buy from stores, make your own from things you already have, or upcycle things to help keep everything neat while staying on a tight budget.
First step is always to clean out the clutter completely. Starting with a clean slate is a must.
Personally, I like to divide the drawers up into sections. You can find containers at the dollar store or on amazon and they come in different sizes and are inexpensive.
This makes me feel so much better, everything has a spot!
If you want some more control over the customization of your drawers, dig into your scrap wood pile! With this method you can cut your pieces to the exact size you need.
I like to use a pin nailer or wood glue to assemble them, this way they’ll be secure but you still have the option to modify the sizes of your sections if your needs change later on.
These drawers are full but you can see everything that’s in them and easily find what you’re looking for.
If you are someone who travels with your tools you might want to spend a bit more money on packouts.
They have bins to keep things organized in and they lock together with handles, so you can carry them around easily.
They also stack nicely which makes them very efficient.
3. Clamp Storage
Vertical storage is really useful in a small workshop! You can use the walls to hang up your tools. I decided to use clamp racks to store my clamps efficiently and in a way that’s aesthetically pleasing.
For the clamps I used special brackets that are easy to put up. Don’t worry I used them in my shed shop and they’re super durable.
These clamp organizers really keep everything streamlined, and yes, I did organize them around the TV!
I also added this little hook for the oddly shaped F clamp.
4. Cabinet Storage
When Shara helped me build the cabinets for my shop, most of the cabinets had adjustable shelving so I could customize them to the size I need as my storage needs change.
Some of the bigger equipment isn’t easy to lift all the time. So, I created pull out drawers to put inside the cabinets to make it easier to load and unload what I need. I love this option for small shops because it’s easier to keep a shop clean when things are hidden away.
This was a fun project that only took a few hours to do, and I dipped into my scrap pile for it! I just created a few boxes with pocket hole screws and brad nails.
I then installed them with heavy-duty drawer slides so they could accommodate my heavier tools like my planer and my kreg jig.
I love that these drawers can be customized to fit any and all of the tools and accessories I want to store in my cabinets!
5. Scrap Wood Storage
I didn’t want to store my lumber in the ceiling like I did in the shed shop so I built a lumber storage rack instead. This is the only item in my shop that is on wheels, and I’m cool with it!
Want printable plans for this project? You can download them here: https://diyhuntress.gumroad.com/l/lumbercart
First up, I just cut a sheet of plywood into my sides, divider, front, back, and bottom pieces and attached them together using pocket holes.
Once I had a cart, I then added casters and stained the cart to match my shop.
This was a project that only took me about an afternoon to make! I’m sharing full plans for it on my online store, so make sure to download them if you’d like some more details!
bonus tip: Dust Collection
Although it’s not technically an organizational tool, collecting dust is essential to keeping a workshop neat.
For my big tools like sanders, planers, and table saws I use a system that hangs on the wall. This saves floor space for other things like building and work areas.
For smaller tools like sanders and miter saws, a simple vacuum can help keep the dust under control. You can get a vacuum that starts automatically when you turn on your tool, or a regular vacuum from a big box store. My best tip is to find a hose that fits your tools well!
I hope these quick tips were helpful for you and your own workshop! If so, please feel free to Pin This post and save it for later!
Dust collection is so important for a small space. I’ve got a Dewalt Stealthsonic hooked up to a cyclone for now, but I may upgrade to a Festool in the future. I love the idea of hiding some of the bigger machines in pull-out drawers as well. Thanks for sharing!