This project was built and designed by Jonny from Jonny Builds. It’s a sturdy, practical garage storage system featuring heavy-duty shelving, a dedicated workbench, and thoughtful organization upgrades.
Whether you’re tackling weekend projects or just trying to reclaim some floor space, this setup combines strength, versatility, and a clean layout. It’s ideal for any woodworker or DIY enthusiast looking to bring order to a cluttered shop.
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Why Build Custom Garage Storage?
Off-the-shelf storage racks rarely fit a workshop’s specific needs. Building your own system allows you to customize dimensions, shelf spacing, and workbench height for maximum efficiency.
Plus, doing it yourself is often much more affordable, especially when factoring in the quality and strength you get by using solid materials like 2x4s and plywood. The satisfaction of setting up a workspace you designed is just a bonus.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Jonny keeps the tool list simple for this project, relying on essentials like a circular saw, miter saw, drill, and clamps. No special jigs or complicated setups are required, making this build accessible for most home woodworkers.
Materials include standard 2×4 studs for framing and plywood sheets for the shelves. Optional upgrades, like paint or pegboards, can add polish and function but aren’t mandatory to get started.
Building the Shelf Frames
The first major step is building the frames that will support the shelves and workbench. Jonny uses a miter saw and a stop block to cut 2x4s to consistent lengths for the outer frames.
After cutting the longest pieces, he adjusts the setup to cut the mid-length supports. Keeping the cuts organized by size reduces clutter during assembly and speeds up the build considerably.
Assembling the Frame Sections
Each frame is clamped together before drilling to ensure everything stays square. Jonny stresses that taking the time to check for square at this stage saves a lot of frustration later on.
Even if some boards are slightly twisted or bowed, clamping and assembling the overall structure brings everything into alignment. It’s a reminder that minor imperfections in lumber are normal and manageable.
Installing the Uprights
Once the shelf frames are complete, they’re attached to vertical 2×4 uprights. These uprights serve as the backbone of the shelving unit and help distribute weight evenly.
Depending on your garage walls, you can either fasten the system to studs or leave it freestanding. Jonny’s design accounts for both possibilities, making it flexible for different setups.
Setting Lower and Middle Shelves
After securing the uprights, Jonny adds the lower frames first, using clamps and a level to make sure everything stays true. The middle shelves follow the same process, maintaining even spacing and structural balance.
Drilling from the inside of the frame keeps screw heads hidden and leaves the exterior clean. Attention to these small details helps give the project a professional look.
Cutting and Placing Plywood Shelves
For the shelving surfaces, Jonny uses plywood sheets cut to size using a circular saw and a straightedge guide. Laying foam insulation underneath protects both the plywood and the floor during cutting.
Depending on the load requirements, he recommends thicker plywood for lower shelves and lighter half-inch plywood for upper sections. This strategy saves money without compromising durability where it matters most.
Adding the Workbench Features
One of the standout elements of Jonny’s design is the integrated workbench area. After finishing the shelves, he installs wall-mounted pegboard panels behind the bench to organize hand tools and accessories.
The pegboard setup maximizes vertical space and keeps frequently used tools easily accessible. It also gives the workspace a cleaner and more streamlined appearance.
Closing Off the Workbench Area
To separate the workbench visually and functionally from the shelving, Jonny adds plywood panels along the sides and back. This creates a defined work zone while still allowing for plenty of overhead and under-bench storage.
Finishing touches like trim around the workbench help tie everything together, giving the whole system a polished, built-in look.
Tool Cabinets and Power Upgrades
Underneath the workbench, Jonny places rolling Husky tool cabinets for additional drawer storage. These cabinets offer a clean, modular solution for organizing small tools, fasteners, and accessories.
For even more convenience, he installs a mounted power strip near the workbench area. Having outlets within reach makes using power tools, chargers, and work lights much easier without needing messy extension cords.
Wrapping Up the Project
This garage storage and workbench system is designed to grow with your needs. Shelves can be rearranged, new hooks can be added to the pegboard, and tool cabinets can be swapped or upgraded over time.
By building the system from scratch, Jonny shows that a functional, organized workspace is well within reach for any DIYer willing to invest a few weekends into their shop.
Get Jonny’s plans here: https://www.jonny-builds.com/garage-storage-plans.