Three Essential Tools on One Mobile Cart

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Matt Hagens

This project was built and designed by Danny from ModernRemade. It’s a space-saving, multi-purpose cart built to hold a drill press, router table, and belt sander—all while keeping the garage organized and mobile.

By combining clever joinery, scrap materials, and thoughtful layout choices, Danny creates a compact yet capable cart that improves both workflow and shop storage. It’s a project well-suited for anyone trying to maximize space in a small or crowded workshop.

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Planning for Functionality in a Small Space

Garage shops often struggle with space limitations, and that’s where this mobile cart shines. The concept was simple: store three commonly used tools on one footprint and make it easy to move around.

Mobility, durability, and organization were the key design priorities. The end result is a cart that’s not only functional, but also adaptable for future projects and tool layouts.

Unique Frame Design with 2x4s

Danny chose an L-shaped leg profile made from 2x4s, which gives the visual appearance of a solid 4×4 without the bulk or cost. This not only lightens the build but also provides a clean look and strong joinery points.

He used the tabletop size as a reference to build the base, reducing the need for repeated measuring. Pocket hole joinery and clamps kept the frame square and easy to assemble, streamlining the process.

Building the Upper Frame and Addressing Challenges

With the legs secure, the top frame was added to tie everything together. This piece adds structure while also creating a mounting point for tools.

As with many shop builds, Danny ran into a few alignment issues. The rounded edges on the outer 2x4s made flush joints difficult at first, but a few adjustments with a mallet and some creative persuasion solved the problem.

Making Use of Scrap Materials

The cart’s top surface was constructed from leftover plywood, demonstrating how scrap can be turned into something useful. Danny tackled minor warping with clamps and screws, showing a practical way to reuse materials without compromising function.

This not only kept costs down but also made the project more sustainable—a key benefit for hobbyist woodworkers working with limited stock.

Problem-Solving on the Go

During assembly, Danny noticed that one of the casters didn’t swivel, which impacted the cart’s movement. Instead of halting the project, he chose to finish the build and revisit the caster issue later.

This decision highlights a common reality in the shop—sometimes it’s more important to move forward and solve smaller problems afterward. Once fully assembled, the cart lined up surprisingly well with his table saw height, though the drill press height still needed refinement.

Adding a Belt Sander Shelf

To make full use of the cart’s space, Danny designed a shelf specifically for his belt sander. Built from scrap plywood, the box uses simple glue-ups and a rabbeted back panel for structure.

Though the box ended up slightly deeper than planned, a quick trim on the table saw corrected it. These on-the-fly fixes are part of what makes workshop builds realistic and rewarding—learning to adjust and adapt is just as valuable as following a plan.

Finishing Touches and Edge Cleanup

Once the cart structure and shelves were in place, Danny rounded over the edges and gave all surfaces a final sanding. While these finishing steps are subtle, they go a long way in making the cart feel complete.

The rounded edges also prevent damage to clothing and cords, especially in tight spaces where the cart might be bumped or repositioned frequently.

Final Adjustments and Looking Ahead

Before wrapping up, Danny returned to the caster issue to ensure full mobility. The cart now moves freely and can be tucked away or pulled out as needed for each task.

This build isn’t just a weekend project—it’s a practical foundation for improving any shop layout. It also sets the stage for future improvements and expansions as tools and workflow needs evolve.

A Smart Way to Upgrade Your Workshop

The mobile cart is a great example of how a few well-thought-out features can make a huge difference in shop organization. With room for multiple tools, built-in storage, and maneuverability, it’s an upgrade that saves time and space.

Danny’s thoughtful design process, practical material use, and realistic problem-solving make this a project worth replicating. Whether you’re organizing a full garage or just creating a station for a few tools, this cart delivers functionality in a tight footprint.

Watch the full video and subscribe to Danny’s channel:

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