You won't enjoy work in a messy workshop

More and more people are beginning to understand that the design of a workplace - the organization, lighting and decor directly affect overall productivity and efficiency. The same holds true for activities that take place in the home.

Whether it's a home-based business or simply a hobby, make a place for it.

In order to get anything accomplished, you have to like going there. Take do-it-your-selfers. No matter how big the dream, a simple screw will not be replaced if all the expensive tools are kept in heap, under odds and sods in a small corner of the basement.

I'd like you to take a look at your "workshop". Are your tools gathering dust? Are your screws mixed with nails? How many cans of half-used paint do have piled in a corner? D you need to carry a flashlight in order to find anything?

If you've answered yes to the above questions and wonder why nothing gets fixed or built around the house, look at what you call a "workshop."

If that were your office, would you accomplish much in a day? Probably not. Why? It's disorganized, poorly lit, unappealing.

First, location is important. Because workshop activities are noisy and dusty, choose a space, that is as far away from the living areas as possible.

Once location has been decided plan the layout. plan according to your needs. If you work with large sheets of plywood and particle board, you need a place to store these on edge.

Maybe build an open stud partition 15 to 30 centimetres from the wall, so you can slide boards out hassle-free. If you work with long pieces of timber, install stirrups that are fixed to the ceiling. The timber is stored overhead, away from damp floors and, most importantly, out of the way.

Organized tool storage is particularly important for three reasons. You can find something quickly when you need it, they're easier to keep sharp and rust-free, and they can be kept out of children's reach.

Keep tools above the work-bench on a pegboard. Keep power tools, planes and other sharp objects locked up and out of reach of children.

Shelving is necessary for all miscellaneous accessories such as glue, varnish, polish, sponges and cloths. It's important for your sanity to keep all your nails, screws and tacks organized. You can store them in glass jars on narrow shelves. Nails and screws can also be stored in sets of plastic drawers and other organizational items that are available at local hardware stores.

Remember to clearly label everything to avoid frustration down the road.

Every workshop has to have some sort of work surface or workbench. Either build one yourself to suit your needs or purchase a Black and Decker Workmate. Lighting is extremely important.

Space fluorescent lights evenly across the ceiling to provide shadow-free illumination. Choose daylight tubes for accurate matching of colors and veneers.

Be sure to install a smoke detector on the ceiling, a fully stocked first-aid kit and fire extinguisher on the wall and if you have children, good locks on the doors.

Remember, it's next to impossible to produce good work or any work at all in a chaotic environment. Once your workshop is up and running, be sure to clean it out ruthlessly every few months.