Shed / workshop / storage space project [Help / advice welcomed!]

Projects
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Hi all, joined the Makerspace relatively recently and have really enjoyed my time as a member so far. Got my first proper project that I want to do in the space and so thought I would post it on here a) as a record of the journey / planning for myself and b) to try and make the most of the vast amount of knowledge / expertise that this community has.

Essentially, we built a shed (not me, got some builders in to do it) at the end of the garden over the summer. The idea for the space was to function as a bike store, outdoor kit / gear storage space and also a small workshop / tool storage space. Here is a photo:

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Here are some photos of the inside (excuse the mess…):

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The shed is insulated and wired up with 4 sockets, and the rough plan is to make / buy some storage units, pegboard for tools, a workbench + any other helpful suggestions that members on this forum might come up with.

My current thinking is something along the lines of:

  • Storage - use 18mm MDF board and make a series of boxes in the space and then assemble at home
  • Tool pegboard - looks like you can buy pre drilled MDF pegboard sheets so will cut something down to size and build a frame to mount it on
  • Workbench - thinking of building out of some sort of wood but also could be a good excuse to learn some basic metalwork. Main thought here is that it could be difficult to build something that is really functional and so also not opposed to buying something and trying to build storage around it etc. - if anyone has any views on this, would be much appreciated!

In terms of my experience, I would say I’m a reasonable DIYer but definitely haven’t ever taken on a project of this scale before. Currently in idea-generating / planning / material gathering stage and hoping to spend a week in the new year preparing it and putting it all together.

Immediate next step is to learn how to use Sketchup to make plans for the space. Will post some plans once I’ve worked out how to use it!

Thanks in advance for any tips or ideas you might have / following along on this slightly self-indulgent thread!

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Tool pegboard - can also make a pegboard on the big CNC. See e.g. the pegboard in the bike area.

I saw this video in a series on metalworking- might give an idea of that as option for the workbench. https://youtu.be/m34L6IndC2E?si=d2q-9nWCsgP_skCx

(Don’t just go with kitchen bench working height - think about what working height is best for what you are doing there. See how high he has his workbench).

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If you need some drawers as part of your storage solution I’ve got some to give away :wink: https://discourse.southlondonmakerspace.org/t/wood-drawers-x-5/37798

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Thanks @dannz, great shout re big CNC - great excuse to learn how to use it and I also have some leftover MDF which will be perfect for it I think.

@naxxfish - that’s super kind, think they’ll definitely be able to be integrated in - will drop you a DM to sort out logistics. Thanks!

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I’d suggest using a drill bit for the holes, and bracing the board in the centre to account for bowing as the board tension changes with the work.

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