Stop Wasting Space! 34 Garage DIY Ideas You’ll Wish You Tried Sooner
Pegboard “Book” for DIY Storage
Create a flexible storage solution using a pegboard in a unique “book” format. This project allows for easy access and organization of tools and supplies, mimicking the functionality of turning pages.
Materials Needed:
- 4×8 ft. pegboard sheet
- 1×2 wood pieces
- Two 2x4s, at least 20 inches long
- Hinges
- Screws and drill
Instructions:
- Cut the pegboard sheet into 24×32 inch rectangles.
- Cut 1×2 wood pieces to frame the pegboard sheets.
- Assemble frames using screws and attach them to the pegboard sheets.
- Cut two 2x4s to serve as spines for the pegboard frames.
- Attach the pegboard sheets to the 2×4 spines using hinges, ensuring ample space between each “page.”
Transform Your Garage Drawer into a Socket Drawer for Pliers and Screwdrivers
Turn an ordinary drawer into a neatly organized socket drawer for easy access to your pliers and screwdrivers. This project is ideal for keeping your tools orderly and quickly accessible.
Materials Needed:
- Measuring tape
- Plywood (1/2″ thickness)
- Table saw or circular saw
- Jigsaw or coping saw
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Drill with various sized drill bits
- Socket organizers
- Pliers and screwdrivers
- Paint or varnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Measure the drawer intended for conversion and sketch a layout to position the socket organizers for pliers and screwdrivers.
- Cut the plywood to the drawer’s dimensions using a saw.
- Lay out the tools on the plywood according to your plan and trace their outlines, leaving adequate space between them.
- Use a jigsaw or coping saw to carefully cut out the tool outlines, ensuring each tool fits snugly.
- Smooth the edges using medium-grit followed by fine-grit sandpaper.
- Attach the socket organizers to the plywood using glue or screws, securing them with clamps or screws as needed.
Lawn Tool Organization
Create an efficient storage solution for your lawn tools to keep your garage neat and your tools easily accessible. This project is straightforward and greatly improves the functionality of your garage space.
Materials Needed:
- Hammer
- Nails
- Screws
- Screwdriver
- Stud finder
- Wood boards (2x4s or 1x6s)
- Wall-mounted shelves or pegboards
- Hooks or holders for lawn tools
- Optional: sandpaper, wood glue, and wood filler
Instructions:
- Measure the designated area for the lawn tool organization system to ensure it fits the intended shelves or pegboards.
- Use a stud finder to locate and mark the studs in your garage wall.
- Cut the wood boards to your desired dimensions for shelves or pegboards.
- Assemble the boards using wood glue and nails to form a sturdy shelf or pegboard structure. Allow the glue to dry completely.
- Sand the wood boards until smooth, and fill any gaps or holes with wood filler; sand again once dry.
- Securely mount the shelves or pegboards to the wall, using screws or nails, ensuring they are level. Attach additional brackets if needed for support.
- Install hooks or holders on the shelves or pegboards at a convenient height, spaced appropriately for your tools.
- Organize your lawn tools on the hooks or holders for easy access and efficient storage.
Create Your Own 5-Gallon Water Jug Storage
Organize your garage with a DIY storage system specifically designed for 5-gallon water jugs. This project is an affordable, effective way to reclaim floor space by using simple materials and basic tools. With a few cuts and some assembly, you can create a custom storage rack that not only saves space but also keeps your water jugs easily accessible and neatly organized.
Materials Needed:
- Eight or nine 8′ 2x4s
- Table saw
- Clamps
- Belt sander
- Drill with countersink bit
- Screws
Instructions:
- Cut the 2x4s into 21×15″ pieces for each shelf.
- Use a table saw to cut seven of these pieces in half, creating the side supports.
- Cut the side stiles to a maximum length of 77″ to accommodate the typical garage ceiling height.
- With clamps, pre-drill and countersink each shelf before assembly to ensure stability.
- Use a belt sander to smooth the inside surfaces where the jugs will sit, ensuring each shelf measures approximately 12x12x15 inches internally.
- Secure the assembled shelves to the wall to maximize floor space. Be ready to make adjustments for any jugs with potential leaks to prevent water damage.