Whether your shop is big or small, plan ahead before you start. Here are some things to do and to consider in your planning:

1. Make a to-scale layout drawing. Add cut outs of the workbench, all the power tools, a trash bin, and any other things your shop will include. Move these miniatures of the items around until you decide on the best layout. Be sure there is room around the tools for the materials you’ll be using. Keep in mind that you’ll have one other thing in the shop . . . you! Provide room for you to work.

2. A stationary workbench is good. However, if there isn’t enough room around it, go for a bench that can be rolled into a larger work area.

3. Pegboard walls are great for small tool storage that keeps the tools at hand yet up off the bench.

4. You must have light over each stationary or bench-type power tool, as well as over the entire workbench.

5. Plan for storage brackets or bins for long materials such as lumber and pipes.

6. Often the floors in the shop are concrete, and this is hard on the feet. Plan for mats or rug scraps.

7. Since many shop chores can be done while sitting, include a comfortable stool in your plan.

So much for the basics! You might also consider running plumbing to the shop with a clean-up sink. An extension phone will be handy, as will an intercom station to keep in touch. The radio can also keep you company as you work away.

The planning you do can make for a safer, more comfortable, more convenient and more productive shop. At any rate, plan on having fun in your shop!

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