How to Build a Metalworking Shop From Scrap

Setting up shop is easy to do if you have the room. A corner of the garage or a shed built out back will do. Plan on building a workbench and shelves to house supplies. Install a few cupboards and cabinets and off you go. Building a metalworking shop from scrap only requires a general knowledge of metalworking and what is needed. Once you have your list prepared and you're ready with the basics, look around the house or maybe in junk stores to see what's available. Of course if you can't find a needed tool in a trash heap, you'll have to buy one, but try eBay or another type of used store prior to buying brand new.

Things You'll Need

• Metal Workbench Hammer Scriber Vise Wrench Punch Pliers Hacksaw Clamps Die Grinder Needlegun Scaler Fuller Tongs Drift Pins File Cards

Instructions

1. Install a metal workbench. Working with metal and metalworking tools requires a strong steel workbench. Find one with drawers for housing small tools.

2. Look through local consignment stores or junk yards to find metal working hand tools. A few to add to your metalworking shop are, a hammer, scriber, vise, wrench, punch, pliers, and a hacksaw.

3. Purchase metal clamps for fastening or holding securely the metal objects you will be working with. Clamps prevent movement which is vital to any type of applied pressure.

4. Grind away small pieces of metal using a die grinder. This rotary hand tool uses an abrasive stone or burr to cut away metal from objects. This is an important tool for any metalworking shop.

5. Remove rust, old paint, and scale from metal surfaces using a needlegun scaler. This metalworking tool uses high speed chisels for home and automotive repair.

6. Spread hot metal with a fuller. This metalworking tool can be housed on a shelf in your shop ready for forming metal while it is hot.

7. Fill your workbench drawers with smaller metalworking tools. Tongs are for gripping and lifting metal. Drift pins are used for enlarging holes. File cards are brushes with metal bristles for cleaning files.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared before you begin any metalworking project. Have each needed tool out and accessible. Securely clamp all projects and make sure to wear your safety mask, goggles, and gloves.

• Goggles are absolutely imperative when working with high powered metalworking tools. Pieces of metal fly with the friction caused when the tool and the metal connect.