Setting up a woodworking shop has gotten complicated with all the tool reviews and “dream shop” builds flying around on social media. As someone who’s reorganized my workspace more times than I can count, I learned everything there is to know about creating a shop that actually works for building furniture. Today, I will share it all with you.
After months of planning and preparation, the shop is finally taking shape. There’s something deeply satisfying about organizing a workspace where every tool has its place and every surface is ready for the next project. I’ve been working toward this for a long time.
New Workbench Complete
The centerpiece of this update is a new workbench built from reclaimed maple. At 8 feet long and 30 inches deep, it provides ample surface area for furniture projects. The twin vises — a leg vise on the left and a wagon vise on the right — handle any workholding situation I’ve thrown at them so far.
Probably should have led with this section, honestly. The top is 3 inches thick, laminated from 8/4 stock that was flattened and jointed by hand. Nothing teaches you to appreciate a sharp plane quite like flattening 24 square feet of hard maple. My arms were sore for a week after that marathon, but every stroke was worth it.
Tool Storage Solutions
Wall-mounted tool racks now hold the most frequently used hand tools. Chisels, planes, and saws hang within arm’s reach, organized by function rather than size. That’s a change I made after spending too many years digging through drawers mid-project. A dedicated sharpening station sits at the end of the bench with waterstones, a strop, and a granite reference plate. Having sharpening set up permanently means I actually do it instead of putting it off.
What’s Next
With the shop infrastructure complete, focus shifts to actual projects. First up: a Shaker-style side table in cherry, featuring hand-cut dovetails and a floating panel top. The wood has been acclimating in the shop for six weeks and is ready to work. I’ve been eyeing those boards every day, just waiting.
That’s what makes shop organization endearing to us woodworkers — it’s not about having a pretty space for Instagram. It’s about removing friction so you can spend more time building and less time searching for that one chisel you know is somewhere. Stay tuned for detailed project documentation, including wood selection, joinery techniques, and finishing approaches. There’s much to share from this newly organized space.
