This project was built and designed by Gary Herd from The Bearded Woodworker.
Gary repurposed a low-cost Harbor Freight furniture dolly into a mobile A-frame clamp rack to bring order to a crowded shop.
The result is a simple, adaptable solution that stores a wide range of clamps while freeing up bench and wall space.
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Design
The rack uses a simple A-frame built from common 1x boards and scrap lumber mounted to the furniture dolly to create a low, heavy base.
The A-frame is sized to accommodate the longest clamps while using the center space for the long pipe clamps to maximize storage density.
Lumber Prep
Rather than milling select hardwoods, Gary leaned on pre-cut stock and leftover plywood to keep the build quick and affordable. Parts were test-fitted directly on the dolly so spacing and proportions could be adjusted before final fastening.
Joinery & Assembly
Construction is straightforward and practical: boards are pre-drilled and fastened to a central stretcher that bolts to the dolly, with cross members added for rigidity.
The focus is on sturdy mechanical connections rather than decorative joinery, making the rack durable and easy to modify.
Clamping Layout
Organization is driven by function, with similar clamps grouped together—one side for the larger quick-grip style clamps, the other for standard bar and F-style clamps, and pipe clamps occupying the middle.
Small spring clamps stack on a narrow ledge, and the layout can be adapted to use dowels or slots for easier removal if preferred.
Mobility & Stability
The heavy dolly base keeps the assembly from tipping while still allowing it to roll to work areas as needed. Although the dolly’s rated capacity is far higher than the load of clamps, the weight distribution creates a surprisingly stable mobile rack.
Finishing Touches & Adaptations
Gary added a removable plywood panel to use leftover space and keep lesser-used clamps tidy, but left it unglued so changes are easy.
Builders can adapt the concept with dowels, hooks, or shelves to match their own clamp collection and shop workflow.
Conclusion
This clamp rack demonstrates how small purchases and a bit of scrap material can be repurposed into a practical, customizable shop solution that improves workflow.
The idea is flexible and approachable for woodworkers looking to reclaim space without an elaborate build.
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