Time Waits for Nobody
My workspace, perfect in its own way.
It’s an overused phrase, but it’s true! If you’re lucky enough to have some kind of space that’s appropriate for woodworking, go for it. I’m lucky. I have some space, about 10’ by 10’. As long as the space is safe for woodworking and you’re not going to pi** off the neighbours or the the rest of the house it’s time to get going.
My workspace has absolutely no natural light. At certain times I can pop the garage door open but it’s rare that happens. Most of the woodworking happens during the evening anyway, so aside from a few times during the summer I use electric lights. There’s no heating but I can plug in a dehumidifier and a heater if needed.
This isn’t a sob story though. I’m hugely fortunate to have this space. I posted this image on Instagram with the aim of bursting the bubble of “dream shops” or “faux film sets”. It’s easy to assume we’re not in the right situation, that we need to keep up with the woodworking Joneses we are exposed to via books, magazines and social media.
I was very reassured when someone commented about how they thought my space was “luxurious”. I couldn’t agree more! I have more than enough space to do what I need. Sure, a “better” space would be nice. But I’m not going to faff about waiting for the perfect situation.
The person who commented works from a garden shed in cramped conditions using a 4’ bench. It really does go to show that you can get out there and make a start in woodworking. It doesn’t have to fit the mould of what you see elsewhere.
There are limits though. I’ve discussed before that you need at least some disposable income, free space and time. But as long has you have a bit of each of these three, give woodworking a try. Don’t sit there waiting for that £450 smoothing plane to come back in stock before you start making. Pick up a second hand Bailey from eBay and sharpen it up. It doesn’t take long and you’ll learn so much about the tool.
One of the things I like most about my space is having a power socket. Having a lathe, bandsaw and extractor is very freeing. But, if I couldn’t have these things I would just need to cut my cloth accordingly until I could. I hope my workspace has inspired you to review your situation and perhaps make those first steps into woodworking.