I’ve been an automotive mechanic for 20-plus years. I’ve built a ‘66 Nova, ‘49 Chevy truck and now am working on a ‘56 Chevy Bel Air.
Tried woodworking
I decided to try woodworking, and I really enjoy it. I started doing scrolling (Photo 1) about two years ago and then moved to building bookcases. I could only afford to build this small shop, which is 10- x 14-ft. But I do a lot of work in it and have a lot of fun.
I always look to see if there are any ways I can save space in my shop when I read your magazine. The bookcase (Photo 2) was in HANDY. The projects and articles in the magazine are great. I also get a woodworkers magazine.
Bookcases and drawers
So far I’ve built three bookcases and drawers for kitchen cabinets. My next project is two custom 5-ft dressers. I collect NASCAR hot wheels, so to show them off; I built a panel to slide them in and hang on the wall (Photo 3). I still have to finish the trim on this piece.
I can move the table saw and band saw outside (Photo 4) when I need to cut full sheets of plywood or need the room to cut with the band saw. I can remove the router and mount my lathe to the table so I can use it. Most of the time I keep my router mounted.
Storage
I have an 8-in. planer that I can move to the center of the shop when I do my planing. This spring, I’m going to put down plywood on the floor so I can have a solid floor.
I keep the hardwood flat on two shelves (Photo 5), and I keep the plywood on edge. I keep my scrap pieces in a box. I use the space between the studs to hang my clamps, and I put up shelves so I can store small parts.