Plan and Organize Your Dream Garage Workshop

Last Edited: 9/14/23


A workshop in your garage can certainly make your DIY projects a little easier. But what if you don’t have one? Setting up your first workshop is an exciting process, but it can also be frustrating if you’re not sure how to get started and what should be included. Whether you need small garage workshop ideas or plans for a large garage workshop layout, we’re here to help you figure it all out.

Garage workshops are a very personal space. Everyone has different expectations, goals, and budgets. Are you a woodworker, metalworker, or working on cars? Perhaps you’re a homeowner who just wants an area to assemble furniture or work on small DIY projects.

Use this guide as a general outline for setting up your workshop. You can always add, subtract, or expand once you figure out how you are actually going to use it and exactly what you need.

Planning Your Garage Workshop: Layout and Equipment Needs

Before deciding on a specific layout ask yourself how you’ll use your workshop. For example, if you’re a woodworker you might want to consider including some sort of ventilation system to minimize the amount of dust in the air. If you just want a space to tinker on some small projects throughout the year, you’ll want to look at heating and cooling options.

Below is a list of things that are typically included in most garage workshops. Once you determine what and how you want to use your workshop, consider which features you need to include.

Power Up

An essential part of most workshops is the ability to plug in and power up. Whether you’re using advanced tools like a table saw or smaller power tools, having a reliable source of power can be a huge advantage. Layout the number and location of each power source to make sure your workshop has the power to meet your requirements. This could be as simple as a few outlets to run those power tools or installing 220V for a TIG welder. Once you have assessed your electricity needs and decided on the best locations, hire an electrician to review your plan, make suggestions, and complete installation.

Light it Up

No matter what kind of projects you are working on you’ll need to see what you’re doing. Installing the proper type and amount of lighting in your workshop is another essential part of workshop planning and design. Today many workshops use LED lighting because it is affordable, efficient, bright, and relatively easy to install. Of course, there are other options to choose from based on what you want to use your workshop for and the atmosphere you want to create.

Access & Security

Your workshop should also be secure and easy to access. If you have kids running around, make sure they can’t easily reach the power tools or anything else that can cause injury. If you live in a busy neighborhood, you should have a lock installed on the door. If you want to pull in a car, make sure you plan your layout accordingly. The same goes for exterior lights. These won’t just help you find your way to the workshop at night, they can also prevent theft.

Workbench

No matter what, you’ll want a stable workbench with enough su