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Hoping to turn a hobby like woodworking, metalworking, bicycle repairs, or something else entirely into a side hustle or business? Then you’re going to need the right workspace.
Rather than paying to rent your own workshop or studio, however, you might already have the space ready to convert. We’re taking a closer look at the garage, and how it can be made into the perfect space for DIY and businesses that use a little more handiwork than the average.
Clean that space out
This is the first step and it might seem like an obvious one, but it’s easy to settle for a half-measure when cleaning up the garage.
Rather than simply “making room” for your business, you should be thinking about converting the space in its entirety. That means that just about everything that isn’t going to help with your work should be moved out of there. You’re going to need space not only for your workstation, but for your tools, material storage, and much more. For that reason, it might be a safer idea to hire a cleaning team to fully declutter the garage and offer you as much working space as possible.
Create the workbench
You can just as easily buy a workbench for your work, but if you feel like being a little more handsy, there’s nothing stopping you from creating one (other than your own aptitude for DIY). There are plenty of guides on creating a workbench for DIY and professional projects.
You just need to make sure that its fully suitable for the kind of work you’re doing. It needs to have enough space for the kind of project you’re taking on, as well as being able to handle the pressure or heat created by the tools that you’re using.
Some larger tools may come with their own workstations, like stationary saws, so make sure you leave enough space to be able to use them safely, as well.
Create the right work environment
You’re not done just yet. There’s a lot that goes into creating a proper working environment for crafts like metalwork and woodwork. First of all, being able to see what you’re working on is a must, so consider investing in more lighting.
The main lighting in the ceiling might not be enough, you should also install task lighting over workstations to ensure maximum visibility. You also want to consider both heating and cooling, as well as insulation to ensure that you can keep working even when the seasons turn. Electrical supply might be essential, depending on what tools you’re using, so take another look at the wiring throughout the garage.
Lastly, take a look at your floor. If you’re working with power tools or heavy materials, you might need to refloor the basement. Similarly, if you’re using oil or lubricants in your work, you need a floor that won’t stain or become slippery if you spill some. Lastly, you want to make sure that it’s somewhat soundproofed if you have neighbours. Otherwise, you could be looking at a high probability of some noise complaints in your future.
Get your tools organized
Creating the right storage space not just for the tools but any other materials or resources that you’re likely to use is important, as well. There are all different kinds of tool storage methods.
For lighter, handheld options, erecting an attachment wall that you can fit hooks onto might be enough. If you have larger tools, such as power tools, you might need a full chest of drawers. Metal tool storage drawers can come with lockable wheels that make it easier to transport around the workshop, and they also have different compartments that open, so you have separate spaces for smaller tools and larger equipment.
Make sure there’s good airflow
Both for the comfort of the working space and for the good of your own health, the airflow within the garage is going to need a second look. Adding some air conditioning is one step but you can also build more solutions into the garage itself, such as overhead vents into the ceiling.
This is especially important if you’re working with any chemicals, but even tasks like woodworking can create a lot of wood dust. While you should make sure you clean up thoroughly after every project, good airflow can ensure that you’re not breathing in particles that could end up risking your health.
Know what you can and can’t do alone
You might not have the budget, the power supply, or the room for all the tools you might like to use in the business. You can pay to lease some of what you don’t own, but don’t neglect to look at other businesses that you can outsource some of your work too.
If you’re in metalworking, you might have a need for powder painting, such as custom Wytelyne. Look at other providers in the area rather than accepting the deficit. By outsourcing, you’re less likely to have to turn customers away if they have jobs that you can’t do alone.
Don’t forget to stay safe
Above all else, safety comes first. Depending on the kind of work you’re doing, you might have different risks. It’s worth doing some independent research to see exactly what is needed to do that work with as little risk as possible. In general, however, it’s a good idea to keep a supply of work safety gear. Work gloves, work boots, respirators or air masks, and safety goggles are the glasses are the bare minimum.
Make sure you keep the workstation as clean and well-preserved as possible, too. Clutter and mess can easily lead to accidents that could threaten your safety and your business.
With the tips above, you should be able to create a garage that works perfectly as a workshop, addressing as many of the needs of the business as possible.
As mentioned, your own skills and tools might not be enough to finish all projects, so it’s worth building relationships with other businesses to make sure all your work gets that professional finish.