I'm in the process of setting up my new workshop, which measures 30x50 feet. My main projects usually involve larger items like beds, dressers, and desks, but I also make smaller pieces occasionally. The shop will have a bathroom and I'm planning to install a four-post lift. I'm thinking about creating two main work stations for my tablesaw and bandsaw that are centrally located, while keeping other machines—most of which are on casters—along the walls so I can pull them out when needed. I currently don't have a dust collection system, just a mobile dust collection cart and a shop vac with a bucket setup. I want to establish the layout first before investing in a 'real' system. I have several pieces of equipment already, and I'm considering how best to arrange them, taking into account their sizes and mobility. I'd love any suggestions!
3 Answers
Where's your assembly table going to go? And don't forget about storage solutions for both tools and lumber. It might be worth it to invest in a hard piped dust collection system eventually, even if it means some overhead runs. Given that your building is already up, it's probably best to go with overhead piping rather than trying to run it under the floor. Also, if space permits later, building a spray booth could be a smart move! Regarding your lift, just keep in mind that it's going to take up a lot of your floor, leaving you with an effective working area of about 30x30 plus room for the lift.
Having a good amount of workspace is crucial! With a slightly smaller space myself, I recommend making sure you have dedicated areas. My table saw outfeed table is about 6.5 feet wide, plus I have an 8-foot workbench and a countertop over cabinets that's 6 feet long. Even with that, I still feel cramped sometimes! So, a solid workbench and a separate assembly table, which can also serve as an outfeed table for your saw, would be ideal.
I have the same size shop, and trust me, it can fill up faster than you might expect! I have a cabinet saw with a 4x8 outfeed table, a 12-foot miter station, and my jointer and planers are on carts. I also have three work tables—one is 4x8 and two are 4x4, plus some shelving along the walls. I installed my dust collector in another room and piped it in, which has helped a lot. Just remember, the tool clearances for lumber are crucial; you’ll want at least 8 feet of space in front and behind your tablesaw.
Yeah, I totally get that. One reason I'm hesitant about a sliding table saw is the space it'll consume. It sounds great, but I worry about room afterward!