Workshop Remodel Project

Just finished a workshop remodel. It was an ideal time to do this because my client had just finished up a large kitchen project. Therefore, ALL of his tools were out in the workshop area, because he had used ALL of his tools.

A clean, ready to use, work area!

We began by putting the boxed tools, drill bits, router, cordless drill, staple gun, etc. back in there original cases. I then used my handy P-touch labeler and labeled all the boxes. The boxes are the same black plastic material and several of them are the same size.

When I was done with the labels, each box said what it contained as well as an up arrow to indicate how to open the lid. I then lined them up on a shelf and they looked so orderly and accessible, it was refreshing.

Peg board came next. The pegboards were arranged so that items that were similar to each other were gathered together. Levels with levels, saws with saws, etc. I then took a picture of each pegboard and printed them out, mounted them on cardboard and covered them with cling wrap and attached them to each pegboard. That way when ALL the tools are out of place again my client can see where to put them back without having to remember. Visual reminders are great.

Peg board

We then organized the drawers in the workbench. Previously the nails and screws in their original boxes (a good thing) were on a shelf. Every time he wanted a nail or screw he had to move the boxes around to find what he wanted. They fit perfectly arranged with the writing on the boxes facing up. Now no more shifting them to find what he wants.

We utilized 2 old hollow core doors and a few 2×4s to make two workshop benches, added castor wheels and reworked the space to be more effective and workable.

View more before & afters in the photo gallery!

Steps to Setting Up Your Workspace

If you are starting a home business office there are lots of things to consider to make it an efficient and comfortable place to work. Having a dedicated space is ideal.

If you do this, a part of your residence can be claimed on your income taxes as a business area. That means however, that you don’t use that space for anything other than your business operations. The IRS is strict about this and we REALLY don’t want any problems with the IRS.

The next thing to consider is the equipment you will need to outfit the space for your needs. Do you need a photocopier, fax machine, dedicated phone line, computer and a printer?

The next thing to decide is how much space is available to house these items. I like a stacking shelf system that is near enough to an electrical outlet to plug into a surge suppressor without an extension cord.

Another consideration is your filing system. For papers you will need to access often I recommend a mail sorter with labels. These can be hung on a wall so as not to take up valuable floor space. After the bin is full or you feel you can file the papers, a stationary file cabinet or file bins are the next step.

Desk placement is also important. You don’t want the glare from a window shining on your computer screen all day. Position the desk facing or perpendicular to any windows and utilize artificial light to illuminate your work space.