Model-RR-Workshop

Rails and Trails Imaging

Model RR - Workshop and Storage Ideas

Who wouldn't like a workshop? And if you have one, who would't like a bigger one? The problem is that no matter the size, they have to be organized and workable. My goal was to have all the parts and tools handy in the same space. I also never put tools away unless it is totally convenient and within reach of where I'm using it. So my approach was to find solutions that would work for me. And the way to do that was to study how I worked. I found that having appropriate and handy containers for tools was the key. If I could put them back as easily as laying them on the workbench, it seemed to happen. I also found that getting organized was determined by how I think. I like keeping projects that I have started together. That means storing them, as I never finish anything before starting something new. For electrical components, I like keeping similar items together and still be able to add new pieces. By trial and error, I found ideas that work for me. Am I a neat freak? No way! I'm a firm believer that a cluttered desk is the true sign of a creative mind. I hope you get some ideas that will work for you.

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Pegboard for cabinet doors provides plenty of storage for small packets of details. The best thing is that I can see them and find them.

Inside of the cabinet is filled with kits waiting to be assembled and/or placed into service.

General storage utilizing all types of boxes and drawers.

Pegboard behind work area provides easy visibility for tools and other hanging items that are not frequently used.

A 90 degree rod that is mounted in a hole to freely swivel provides a perfect way to hold detailed building plans or schematics.

Pliers rack was made from 1"x2" pine with angled holes. It is very accessible and keeps tools off of the work surface. It is located directly in front of me.

Hanging plastic cylinders from Home Depot make excellent tool storage. They are also at eye-level in front of me.

Some items fit perfectly into this rotating tool tray available from Micro Mark.

Sanding drums, which I use a lot, are easily accessible and extra drums are organized by grit.

Storage for parts and projects that have been started or waiting to be installed has always been a major problem.

Overhead shelf is handy to store some tools and my supply of styrene, brass, and dimensional wood strips.

I obtained these pouches on a clearance sale. I use them for things like clamps, test leads, and other things that need to be carried around. The tags can be read easily.

I designed a roll-around cabinet especially for plastic boxes to store electronic components. The top also provides a work surface.

Typical plastic box of components like LED's. They are all labeled with specs. You can't build the circuits if you don't have the parts.

In-progress electronic projects also need to be stored. I like these small plastic boxes which are readily available in a variety of sizes and easy to label.

I adapted a plastic carry box for electrical meters. It contains a Volt-Ohm Meter, a Capacitance Meter, and a Continuity Tester.

I maintain a portable electronic work box containing four plastic boxes that I can take anywhere. It contains electronics tools, jumper wires, common resistors and capacitors, etc.

When working on electronics projects, I had a problem with putting my tools on the work surface. I placed some appropriate bins on the front edge of the table near my right hip when seated. Now when my right arm comes down with a tool they go right in. The larger bin holds wire strippers, etc.

A small plastic tub keeps my circuit boards organized and easy to access. Since I can no longer rely on Radio Shack to have boards, I keep a supply on hand.