This project was built and designed by Mark from Gunflint Designs. It’s a fast, effective clamp storage solution that helps clear floor space and keep essential woodworking tools within easy reach.
Clamps are one of the most frequently used tools in any woodshop, but they’re also some of the most difficult to store efficiently. Mark’s simple wall-mounted rack solves that problem with a compact build that’s easy to customize and install in just a few hours.
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The Clamp Storage Problem
For many woodworkers, clamps pile up quickly. Whether you have bar clamps, pipe clamps, or quick-grip styles, they often end up leaned against walls, piled in corners, or buried under benches.
Mark’s solution tackles this head-on by creating a vertical storage rack mounted to the wall behind his dust collector. The result? He cuts the footprint of the dust collector in half and transforms wasted space into usable storage.
Planning the Installation
Before jumping into the build, Mark takes time to assess the available space. Measuring out the wall dimensions and factoring in nearby obstacles—like windows or other equipment—is essential.
Because he’s working with a wall that includes glass, Mark is especially careful with screw length. A simple but smart move, this kind of preparation prevents costly mistakes and ensures the rack will be both secure and safe.
Safety First
One of the most overlooked aspects of woodworking builds—especially shop furniture—is wall integrity. Mark reminds viewers that not all walls are created equal, especially in basements or garages.
To avoid damage to glass or electrical lines, he measures screw depth carefully and uses safe mounting practices. These details are what turn a quick build into something reliable and long-lasting.
Building the Rack
The rack itself is straightforward, which makes it a great project for beginners and experienced woodworkers alike. The goal is to get clamps up off the floor and onto the wall in a way that’s strong, tidy, and expandable.
Using a few basic tools and off-the-shelf hardware, Mark assembles the rack quickly. He keeps the depth of the structure minimal, reducing the chance of bumping into it during shop work.
Smart Design for All Clamp Types
One of the strengths of Mark’s build is its versatility. The rack is designed to hold different types of clamps, not just a single style.
Bar clamps and pipe clamps are suspended using slots and brackets that spread out their weight evenly. The spacing is optimized to prevent the tools from tangling or falling, and the structure stays close to the wall to avoid taking up unnecessary space.
Assembly and Mounting
After cutting and laying out the parts, Mark attaches the rack directly to the studs in the wall. This ensures the rack can hold heavy clamps without pulling loose or sagging over time.
Each section is screwed in securely, and the build is modular enough to be extended or modified later. Mark’s use of sturdy brackets and appropriate screws guarantees that the rack will hold up under daily use.
Improved Workflow and Efficiency
With clamps now visible and accessible, Mark’s workflow improves significantly. No more digging through piles or tripping over tools—everything is within arm’s reach and organized.
This kind of setup saves time during glue-ups and assembly tasks, where having clamps ready to go is critical. It also keeps the shop cleaner and reduces visual clutter, which makes working in the space more enjoyable.
Freeing Up Floor Space
One of the most noticeable benefits of this project is how much space it frees up. By moving clamp storage to the wall, Mark recovers valuable real estate in his small shop.
This is especially important in compact or shared spaces, where every square foot counts. A clamp rack like this helps keep the floor clear for larger builds, mobile carts, or dust collection systems.
Room to Grow
Mark leaves room for future expansion, knowing that clamp collections tend to grow over time. The design allows for easy additions, whether that’s extra arms, peg hooks, or wider slots for oversized clamps.
The simplicity of the design means it can be replicated across multiple walls if needed, or scaled up to fit a larger shop environment.
A Quick Win with Big Impact
This clamp storage rack is proof that even a small project can make a big difference. With minimal materials, a little planning, and a focus on efficiency, Mark creates a durable fixture that instantly improves the function of his shop.
Whether you’re starting to outfit a new workspace or looking to improve an existing one, this rack is a fast, low-cost solution that delivers real value.
You can see all of Mark’s plans here: https://www.gunflintdesigns.com/project-plans.