This project was built and designed by Tom from Alley Picked.
Tom tackles the common workshop challenge of scrap wood storage with an innovative A-frame shelving system. Instead of stacking wood in random piles or cramming pieces into boxes, he creates a mobile organizational solution that makes smaller wood pieces easily accessible and visible.
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Design Inspiration
The concept originated from a simple shelf Tom spotted at a craft store. While the commercial version was designed for displaying small items, its A-frame structure sparked an idea for workshop organization.
Tom emphasizes that there’s really no such thing as “scrap” wood since these pieces retain their value and usefulness. The challenge lies in keeping them organized and accessible rather than letting them pile up in corners or boxes where they become forgotten.
Frame Construction
The basic structure uses dimensional lumber cut into four equal pieces to form the A-frame sides. Tom works methodically, cutting the frame components and assembling the triangular supports that will hold the horizontal shelving.
The design prioritizes mobility, allowing the entire unit to be moved around the workshop as needed. This flexibility proves especially valuable during shop relocations or reorganization projects.
Shelf Integration
Multiple horizontal shelves span between the A-frame sides, creating distinct storage zones for different types of wood pieces. Tom pre-drills holes to ensure secure attachment without splitting the wood during assembly.
The shelving accommodates various wood sizes, from small offcuts to larger panels and plywood sheets. The open design allows for easy identification and retrieval of specific pieces.
Practical Applications
Tom demonstrates loading the completed shelf with an impressive variety of salvaged wood pieces. He shares examples of spalted maple from flea markets, solid wood drawer fronts from discarded cabinets, and even pieces reclaimed from old pianos.
The system transforms what was once a chaotic collection of loose wood into an organized inventory. Each piece becomes visible and accessible, encouraging more frequent use of existing materials rather than purchasing new lumber.
This A-frame approach offers excellent versatility for different workshop sizes and needs. The basic concept can be scaled up or down, wall-mounted for smaller spaces, or expanded with additional shelves and accessories. Tom’s solution demonstrates how thoughtful organization can transform workshop efficiency while preparing valuable wood pieces for future projects.
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Matt’s Take
These are my personal thoughts and tips based on my own experience in the shop. This section is not written, reviewed, or endorsed by the original creator of this project.
Scrap wood organization is one of those challenges that sneaks up on every woodworker. You start with good intentions, then suddenly you’re digging through piles trying to find that perfect piece you know is in there somewhere. Tom’s A-frame approach really nails the visibility factor – when you can see everything at a glance, you’re way more likely to actually use those pieces instead of buying new lumber.
The mobile aspect here is brilliant for smaller shops. Being able to roll your storage around means you can position it exactly where you need it for a project, then tuck it away when you need floor space. If you’re building something similar, consider adding casters with locks – the last thing you want is your wood storage rolling away mid-project.
One thing I always keep in mind with scrap storage is weight distribution. Those salvaged pieces can add up fast, especially if you’re like me and can’t resist grabbing interesting wood wherever you find it. Building the frame sturdy from the start saves headaches later when you inevitably load it beyond what you originally planned.