Have you always had a vision of building your very own workshop in your home? For DIY enthusiasts everywhere, having a space to call their own where they can translate their visions into a reality is a dream come true. If you have taken a leap of faith and have decided to design a fantastic workshop in your garage or shed, this is the article for you. Read on to find out more about how you can go about designing the ultimate DIY workshop for yourself in the comfort of your own home!
1. It’s Time To Start Cleaning!
First and foremost, when building the workshop of your dreams, you are going to need space…and lots of it! If your garage is the chosen room in which you have decided to build your DIY mecca, the time has come to get cleaning. Lift those roller doors up and push out anything in your space that does not need to be there. You may even consider holding a garage sale to get rid of excess items, or purchasing some storage space for larger items that may be taking up too much space in your garage. Ideally, you’ll have as much room as possible for your workshop, but if space is truly a constraint, consider a line of demarcation that separates your workshop area from your storage area.
2. Get Started On That Workbench
The workbench is the very epicenter of any workshop, so it only makes sense that you focus your effort on it before meddling with the other bits and pieces that will come after. If you are crafty, you can consider building your very own workbench, but do keep in mind that the workbench will need to be secure, strong and safe. If you don’t think you are up for the challenge, it is always advised that you get a professional in to install a workbench with a durable surface. Since you will be doing most of your work here, quality is of utmost importance, so don’t skimp out!
3. It’s Time To Go Shopping!
Of course, no workshop is complete without its tools. If you don’t already have an extensive range of tools, it may be time to head to your local DIY store and go on a crazy little shopping spree. Good basics to ensure you have are table saws, a grinder, belt sander, a band saw and a drill press. Don’t forget screwdrivers, nails, and any other bits and pieces that you may feel are necessities in any functional workshop.
4. The Importance Of Good Lighting
There’s no getting around it – workshops aren’t exactly the safest of areas. This is why good lighting is absolutely crucial in any workshop. Garages are usually quite dimly lit, so consider installing task lights as well as additional overhead lighting. Adjustable lamps are a great option as well as you can control the amount of light being emitted, and always opt for fluorescent lights as they are not just bright, but also economical. Avoid any messy mishaps with adequate lighting.
5. Pay Attention To Ventilation
When you are busy sanding and sawing materials such as wood, good ventilation is an absolute necessity. Since most garages don’t have a great ventilation system, you will have to install a ceiling exhaust fan to make sure you are keeping the air that you are inhaling clean. Simply opening a window will not suffice, and if you have the budget, consider a dust collection system and central vacuum as well. All these installations will help keep dust, dirt and particles off your clothes and out of your lungs.
__________
With these tips in your arsenal, you’ll be building the workshop of your dreams in no time!