Nice work Rodd. I particularly like the high bench and low bench contrast for working at different levels (and saving the ageing back/neck :-\).
3 years ago I came across this thread:
http://bmwsporttouring.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=385713#Post385713 Team Overkill builds the ultimate motorcycle garage! It is unbelievable and made me think about some of the things i wanted to do in my shed.
Anyway I was doing a bit of woodwork (nothing serious) and had bought a Triton Workbench. So I searched for lists to suit and came up with the following advice:
Workshops can be set up just about anywhere - in the garage, in a shed, even under the house but the golden rule is "a place for everything and everything in its place".
LightingIf you want your work to be good, lighting has to be good. Fluorescent lights give the best spread and are brighter than conventional globes. Position lights over the workbench or to one side, never but not so they shine in your face. Don't position lights behind your head or you'll end up with shadows over your work area.
VentilationYou need fresh air when you're working with adhesives, paint and dust. Dry air prevents timber warping or swelling.
PowerMake sure you have enough power points. This will prevent overloading and extension cords dangerously crisscrossing the floor. All power points, especially in old houses, should be fitted with earth leakage cut-off devices (new houses have safety devices wired in). Small power tools only require normal power but larger band saws, drill presses and radial arm saws may require three-phase power. All electrical work must be carried out by a licensed electrician.
WorkbenchA strong workbench is essential (no, that old table is not sturdy enough). Your workbench should be 850mm high, with the legs braced to prevent spreading. It should have a thick timber top, especially at the front, to withstand hammer blows. Often there's a well of lighter timber in the middle, where you can place tools.
If space is tight, get a portable workbench that you can fold away when you're not using it.
Accessories for the workbench include adjustable bench stops which are good for planing against, bench hooks to aid cross-cutting, a mitre box for cutting angles, a drawer for storing tools or hardware and woodwork vice.
Other workshop essentials:- Saw stools
- Ladder or steps
- Broom
- Fire extinguisher
- First-aid kit
Basic tool kitBuild up your kit gradually (start with Mothers Day and Fathers Day!) but always invest in quality products. Here's a start:
- Claw hammer (570g)
- Smoothing plane (No 4)
- Marking gauge
- Combination square
- Steel tape measure
- Three bevelled-edge firmer chisels (10mm, 18mm, 32mm)
- Cross-cut saw (650mm long)
- Tenon saw (300mm long)
- Nail punch (3mm)
- Set of twist drill bits
- Set of screwdrivers (slotted, pozi and Phillips)
- Oil stone
- Sanding cork
- Variable-speed power drill
- Jigsaw
It may be more for wood, but some useful ideas.
