If woodwork has been a hobby of yours for many years, you may be ready to step out of your comfort zone and take the next step. When you have a passion and want to turn it into a regular pursuit, there are a number of considerations you need to make. First and foremost, you should be congratulated on actually taking this leap, as many people would never even get to this stage. Next up, you need to think about how you’re going to turn your hobby into an enjoyable, safe and long-lasting pursuit that stays aligned with your vision. Whether you’re trying to make the most of the unique edge of your skillset, or you’re hoping to pass on your passion to other people just like you, there are 6 things you should know before you open up your own woodworking shop. Making space for tools, extracting dust and storing your creations are all important elements you shouldn’t forget, but let’s delve into them in a little more detail.
By Team Savant
Image: Jonathan Cooper
Create a Clear Layout Plan
The layout of your new woodworking space is probably the most important element of all. A well-planned layout will not only make sure you’ve got enough room for all of your major equipment, but it will also make it much more enjoyable for you too. Small Woodworking Shop Layout Plans can be acquired quickly and easily by a professional, and they can help you to create a highly productive space using just a small area. Optimizing this workspace will create an improved workflow so that your productivity is boosted too. Once you have a clear layout in mind, you can start to think about all of the other components that need to go into your workshop.
Make Space for Tools and Machinery
Your woodwork tools and machinery are going to take up the majority of the space in your workshop, and for very good reasons. Even if your collection is only small right now, you are bound to acquire more machinery over time, so it’s important to keep this in mind when you’re designing the perfect space. The investment in this equipment is significant, but if you’re serious about woodworking, it will be well worth it in the long run!
Prioritise Dust Collection
Dust collection is a very important aspect of woodwork workshops as it’s inevitable that there’s going to be some sort of dust build-up as you work. In order to avoid ailments and illnesses from excess dust, you need to consider dust extractor machinery and plenty of ventilation in your new workshop. Having a modern dust collection system in your workshop will provide the flexibility and safety elements you need to use bandsaws, sanding machines and much more.
Hire a Professional for Workshop Electricals
Making sure your workshop has the right types of electrical outlets is also very important. You need to be able to plug in your equipment safely so that you can continue your work effectively. When you have your workshop plan in place, you can work alongside a professional electrician to make sure your electrical ports are correctly installed from day one.
Consider Lighting Options
Although your woodworking equipment is obviously very important when it comes to completing projects, you also need to be able to see too! Lighting is another fundamental element that can’t be overlooked, as it will affect your productivity and the overall effectiveness of your space. Overhead fluorescent lighting is a must-have as it creates a bright environment with great visibility. When your workshop is lit up brightly you are less likely to make mistakes and you’ll enjoy your work even more!
Set Up Your Storage
Making sure that you are able to keep your new workshop organised is a must-do, and will require plenty of storage options to make this happen. Without the right amount of storage you may struggle to put away your tools safely and keep your space neat. Tool cabinets are a brilliant way to keep your precious equipment safe from dust and damage. Enclosed cabinets are usually the ideal solution so that they can be put in a secure place at the end of your working day.
So, if you’re ready to take the next step with your woodworking shop, this is the place to start. Woodwork in every form is a hugely popular hobby for people of all abilities and ages, but it is an investment if you want to take it one step further. Opening up your own woodworking shop will not only give you the space you need to do what you love, but it will also become a hugely important part of your lifestyle that you can enjoy for many years to come!