Very Small Shop

[RoodyJ]

I was used to doing all of my wood working in a 1000sf pole building that I custom built. After a divorce, I no longer have access to the shop and tools. Now living in a 3 story townhouse with finished basement, no garage or workspace. The basement has outside access through a sliding glass door to a large concrete patio area. My plan is to gather mostly portable power tools (saw, router table, planer, etc.) and stow them in a large closet when not in use. When the weather permits I will set-up for work on the concrete patio. Probably will also add a awning type cover so I can work in light rain. I would like any advice you folks can provide as far as how this arrangement might work, and particulars of the "minimal" collection of tools that would serve most needs for cabinetry and small furniture building.

Thanks for your ideas in advance.
Jim

[wfahey]

Welcome Jim (RoodyJ)

I think your plan is very plausible. If you have watched any of the home shows on TV they do just about all of their projects under a tent outside with small tools.
It is a shame you lost the shop AND the tools. But hey, gives you a reason to buy new stuff.

Tom will hammer for this - Know why a divorce costs so much? 'cause it is worth it!

[thintz]

RoodyJ,

I get email from a fellow who works on a large balcony on an apartment building. He uses a Bosch work site saw and other portable tools that get stored in a closet and spare bedroom when not in use. Despite his very confined work area, he produces some VERY cool cabinetry and other projects. Having a small workspace certainly has its limitations but that just forces you to find creative solutions. It can be done just take your time and think about what yo want to do.

[isawzdust]

I understand,my area right now is approx. 10' x 10'.Believe me,i can relate as you can see small space and small tools right now.I'm fortunate though,my space is going to go to approx. 24' x 17' as soon as a couple of walls go down and some new wiring goes in.

Hang in there Bro,Al

[wfahey]

Al, just think of the workout you get lifting that drill press out of the cabinet and putting it back! I did that for about 2 days and then built a dedicated bench for it.

[isawzdust]

lol,it's a HF dp it don't deserve it's own bench.Besides sold it for $50,i got my $19.99 worth out of it for 2 years.Making room for some "real" tools coming soon.

[RoodyJ]

Well, I've started on my project. Picked up a Bosch 10" table saw with lift today. I also "liberated" a small kitchen buffet cart with shelves and doors for my router table. Both fit nicely in my closet. I expect to get a Kreg table and fence that I will mount to the cart (after I cut out a hole for the router assembly. Will post pics when I get them from my cam.
Jim

[wfahey]

This is a tough crowd Jim. They want pictures. )