Inexpensive Tiny Workshop for an Ultimate DIYer

Build your own workshop

Are you a persistent DIYer? Woodworking in all its forms is an enormously popular hobby among DIY enthusiasts. Most people, regardless of their abilities, just like to tinker with a bit of wood and create something. Starting out is easy.  But there is a common misconception that woodworking requires a considerable amount of space. The fact is that many people create versatile workshops in the smallest of spaces.

In order to achieve your best, all you really need is a dedicated space where you can work freely, with all the materials and tools you need within arm’s reach.

This little workshop is a great example. The owner needed a workshop to work undisturbed on his projects, to store his materials and tools, and all other hardware. He was able to build this workshop for less than $2000 including a deck that cost him just $65!

Build your own workshop

Before beginning a project like this, it’s essential that you consider how you’ll be using your workshop and what materials and method of building you’ll be using. Make use of repurposed materials from your previous projects to lower the cost.

Another important aspect you need to consider is the use of space. Utilize every bit of space to make your workshop efficient. And before you start building do a quick check of your local building codes.

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You’ll need these materials:

  • Lumber

– 100 pieces 2x4x8′
– 4 pieces 2x4x12′
– 8 pieces 2x6x10′
– 2 pieces 2x6x12′

  • 35 sheets of 4×8 Oriented Strand Board
  • 20 pieces 1×4 trim
  • 10 pieces 1×6 trim
  • 1 roll of Roof Felt
  • Shingles
  • 3 sheets of Plexiglass – for windows
  • Clear Plastic Roll – vapour barrier
  • Metal Hurricane Straps
  • Primer
  • Exterior Paint
  • Exhaust Fan
  • Window and Door Hinges
  • Bolt Locks
  • Weather-proof Outdoor Switch
  • Lighting

For the Deck

  • 4 Old Pallets
  • Blocks
  • 20 Contractors Grade Deck Boards

And these tools:

  • Framing Nailer
  • Clamps
  • Cordless Drill
  • Table Saw

Steps:

Steps to build a tiny workshop

Build your own workshop

I spent a full week grading, compacting the soil, and levelling each block before laying the floor joist.  The last thing you want is to finish your new workshop and have a corner start sinking into the ground.

Build your own workshop

You can see that I had a drop of about 12 inches on the low side.  During heavy rainstorms, water can flow like a stream next to the fence.  I wanted to make sure my workshop was high enough off the ground to avoid any flooding issues.

Build your own workshop

I framed and sheathed each wall individually and then stood them up with the help of long 2×4 braces.

Build your own workshop

I added a second cap of 2×4 on the top to make the walls a little more rigid.  I then laminated 4 2×4’s to construct a ridge board.  I nailed in some temporary 2×4 supports and had a friend help lift it into the final position.  Once all of the rafters are cut and nailed into place, the supports were removed.

Build your own workshop

You can see in this step how I notched each rafter to fit more securely to the walls.  I also used a metal hurricane strap to secure each rafter to the wall.  Even though this was not required by code, I felt my tools were far too valuable to be left to chance over such an inexpensive solution.

Build your own workshop

The walls are a simple board and batten system.  The 1×3 trim covers the joints of the 4×8 OSB.  They make much more high-quality sheet goods to use as siding.

Build your own workshop

I sealed the OSB and painted it with exterior paint.  If I run into problems in the future, I can just add a second layer of more durable material or simply have siding installed.  It has held up very well over the past couple of years and I see no need to spend more money on it now.

Build your own workshop

Once I had the walls completely filled in and trimmed out, I built my doors.  I clamped them in place each day until after I painted.  Then I installed the hinges and hardware.

Build your own workshop

This is where I started thinking about how I was going to store all of my lumber. I decided to cut access doors in the front and build my storage into my workbench area.  This has been the single best idea that has come out of my shop.  I can’t express enough how easy it is for me to get straight to a board I need with no hassles.  I just remove the doors and pull out what I need.

Build your own workshop

I can store a surprising amount of lumber in this area.  I do have a secondary area for some cutoff sheet goods and a scrap bin next to my table saw in the garage.  But this area stores most of my lumber.

After I finished priming and painting I moved on to building the attached structures on the back. I framed it in a 4×8 Garden Shed on the back.  I didn’t want it so deep that stuff would get buried in it.

Build your own workshop

Having your separate workshop is a must if you are a serious DIY-er. It not only helps you organize your tools and work efficiently, but it also keeps the entire home a safer place for the family, especially for the kids.

Want a dedicated place for your projects? Then start planning your workshop!

Thanks to bizydad for this great project.

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