Step-by-Step Instructions and Pictures of Small Workshop Storage Solutions

Air-Compressor Loft
Air compressors—even small ones—take up a lot of valuable space. To preserve every square inch of floor space, build a little corner shelf overhead. Nestle your compressor into a corner of the floor and measure the size of the shelf you need to fit it. Leave an extra 2 in. of room at the front where you can screw on a 2x2 lip to “corral” the compressor so it won’t walk over the edge while it’s running. Then measure the height of the compressor to determine the proper distance from the ceiling to the shelf so the compressor has enough clearance.

To build the shelf, start by fastening 2x6 ledger boards to the studs with 5/16-in. x 4-in. lag screws driven into each stud. Screw down a chunk of 3/4-in. plywood on top of the 2x6s for the compressor floor and another chunk on the underside for a storage shelf. A strategically placed 3-in. hole makes it easy to drain the tank from underneath. To really complete this air tool station, solder 1/2-in. copper tubing and attach it to the compressor with a swivel “snubber” hose. Connect an air hose reel for compact hose storage for long-distance needs and a curlicue-style hose for air-at-your-fingertips bench work.