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Looking for someone to setup my shop

DannyBarooshian's picture

I convinced my wife to let me have the 2-car under garage for a shop, and have collected some equipment over the years - tablesaw,  jointer, bandsaw. Still, I'm challenged to get the shop setup with lighting, dust collection, heat, and general organization. After years of self-flagellation, I decided to seek help - to pay someone to setup my shop for me. I live north of Boston, in Chelmsford. Any reccomendations are appreciated. -Thanks, Dan

RalphBarker's picture

shop setup is personal (post #169540, reply #1 of 2)

My recommendation, Dan, would be to learn Google SketchUp (free, fairly easy-to-use 3-D modeling software) and do the planning and layout in silicon (the computer) first, rather than paying someone. Shop layout depends, in part, on what types of projects you do, and how you prefer to work. Conveying that info to another person isn't always easy or accurate. The last thing you want is a shop that is laid out to fit the way someone else works.

Start with measuring your space and the locations of power outlets fairly accurately. Then, start your SketchUp model with that basic floor plan. Free 3-D models are available for many machines, so make a list of what machines you have, and see what you can find. Then, based on the size of stock you typically work with, start moving things around on-screen, allowing for both in-feed and out-feed space requirements. Where possible, try to share those spaces between machines, utilizing walkways as outfeed space where possible. The advantage of using SketchUp is that heavy machines can be moved around in the computer without breaking a sweat.

WoodCrafter's picture

I'm close by (post #169540, reply #2 of 2)

dan,

 

I'm north of you, Nashua, NH.

"We" , I'm sure ,can do this.

A good start would be a visit, bit of pondering, take it from there.

Not interested in making money off you - what goes round comes round in my world.

It'd be good to help out a fellow WWer.