Wood Working project plan

When researching storage and organization projects, I was reminded how much space is available under a bed. We have several under-bed storage boxes that contain things we rarely use. Maybe once or twice a year.

I thought would be nice to utilize under bed space for long-term storage, but also be able to store and access more frequently used items without having to drag out the entire box.

My storage unit has a large back section with a removable lid for storing less-used, maybe seasonal items. The front of this cabinet has a drawer allowing easy access to things you need to get to more often.

Most under bed storage boxes have wheels on them, but I dont believe they are necessary. I attached furniture glides to the underside of this unit, allowing it to slide easily on wood floors or carpet.

Plans:

Before using the dimensions in these plans, be sure to carefully measure the space beneath the bed you are going to use. I designed mine to fit under my king-sized bed, but the frames of these vary greatly. Also make sure to account for areas of the bedframe that extend lower than the mattress. 

• WWMM Under bed storage cabinet (pdf)
• Sketchup file

I have used pegboard for years as an easy way to hang my hand tools. I can see why it is popular with a lot of guys: its fairly inexpensive and there are a wide variety of hangers you can buy that will allow you to hang just about anything.

The problem I have always faced is that the little metal holders continually fall off when I try to remove a tool.  I understand there are more modern hangers than the ones I used that will stay in place, but I never got around to purchasing any. I bought an assorted box of hangers when I set up my pegboard and never added to it.

Nor did I ever move the pegs around. I set them in place and instead of getting the right hanger for the tool, Ive always just plopped tools on whatever hanger they will fit. Usually awkwardly.

Ultimately, I like building stuff for the shop whenever possible, rather than buying stuff. Especially since everything else on my tool hutch is hand-made.

This french cleat system lets you get creative with storage and is infinitely adjustable to your tools and set-up. Plus french cleats are sturdy. I use one to hold my TV on the wall.






*****
Mere Minutes.
This is a video from last weekend that I forgot to post here. Some updates on last weeks projects.

"Maple"
My trusted Palomino Saw Bench
Buying your lumber in rough form, letting it sit around your shop and then with as much lead time as possible, rough milling it to over sized dimensions for a specific project.
The longer the better for this stage. Three to four weeks I find is acceptable, then finish off when you start your project by bringing your pieces to size.
You probably noticed the "two" benches...this is the short version of a long story. After going back and forth with, should I build a bench or buy a new one for a few months I finally realized that I didnt have the luxury of time to build a Work Bench. I decided my time was more valuable building boats for paying customers and Fine Furniture between that. After lots of searching trying to find the best Bench for the buck, I decided on this European style Cabinet makers Bench from a very reputable company in New York. I had it shipped via Fed-Ex Freight and when it finally arrived ( three weeks later ) it was badly damaged. I phoned the company and they immediately shipped me a new replacement Bench and said they would be in touch about picking up the damaged unit. Weeks passed and the new Bench arrived, ( no damage thankfully ) but no sign of getting the old one out of my someone small shop. Finally a phone call from the company again saying they were going to abandon the bench Well it didnt take too long for me to re-build it and try to repair the damage. The result is a great second work surface which one vise that works great and the other less than ideal. But hey, where else can you get two for one Work Benches?