Keeping your garden tools organized can be a real challenge, especially those long-handled trimmers and clippers. A build your own trimmer rack is the perfect, customizable storage solution to end the clutter in your shed or garage. It saves you money, uses simple materials, and gets your most-used tools off the floor and within easy reach.
You don’t need to be a master carpenter to make one. With a few basic tools and some common lumber, you can create a rack that fits your exact space and tool collection. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from planning to mounting.
Build Your Own Trimmer Rack
This project focuses on a simple, wall-mounted design that holds tools by their handles. The beauty of building it yourself is that you can adjust the width, the number of slots, and the spacing to match what you own. Let’s start with what you’ll need to gather.
Materials and Tools You Will Need
First, collect all your materials. This prevents trips to the hardware store mid-project. You can find most of this in any home improvement center.
- Lumber: One 8-foot length of 2×4 lumber (for the frame). One 8-foot length of 1×4 or 1×6 lumber (for the slotted shelf). Choose pressure-treated or cedar for outdoor use.
- Plywood: A small scrap piece, about 12″ x 12″ and ¾” thick, for the support cleats.
- Fasteners: 2½-inch exterior-grade wood screws. 3-inch exterior-grade screws or lag bolts for mounting into wall studs.
- Wall Anchors: If you cannot hit studs across the entire rack, use heavy-duty toggle bolts.
- Optional: Exterior wood glue, sandpaper, and exterior paint or stain.
For tools, you’ll need basics that most gardeners already have:
- Tape measure and pencil
- Speed square or carpenter’s square
- Circular saw or miter saw (a hand saw works too)
- Power drill/driver
- Kreg Jig or countersink bit (for cleaner screw holes)
- Safety glasses and hearing protection
Planning Your Rack’s Dimensions
Before you cut any wood, plan your design. This step ensures the final rack works for your tools.
Start by laying your trimmers, clippers, and other long-handled tools on the ground. Group them together and measure the width of the bundle. Add about 6 inches to this measurement—this will be the total width of your rack’s shelf board.
Next, decide on slot spacing. For most tools, slots 2 to 3 inches apart work well. This gives enough room for bulky hedge trimmer heads. Count how many slots you need. A standard 8-foot 1×4 board can comfortably fit 10-12 slots.
Finally, consider height. The 2×4 vertical supports should be long enough to place the shelf at a convenient height, typically between 3 and 4 feet from the floor. This keeps handles easy to grab.
Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions
Now for the fun part: building. Follow these steps in order for the best results.
Step 1: Cut the Wood to Size
- Cut two vertical supports from the 2×4. A good length is 36 inches.
- Cut your shelf board from the 1×4 or 1×6 to the width you determined in planning.
- From the plywood scrap, cut two right triangles for cleats. These should be about 6 inches on each leg. They provide crucial support under the shelf.
Step 2: Create the Slots in the Shelf
This is the key to the rack’s function. Mark your slot lines evenly across the top edge of the shelf board using your tape measure and square. Each slot should be about 1¼ inches wide—just wide enough for a tool handle to drop in.
To cut the slots, drill a 1¼-inch hole at the top of each marked slot. This creates a rounded bottom. Then, use your saw to cut straight down from the top edge of the board to the hole, creating a “keyhole” shape. Sand the slots smooth so they don’t snag the tool handles.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame and Shelf
- Attach the plywood triangle cleats to the inside faces of the two 2×4 vertical supports. Place them near the top, flush with the ends. Use glue and screws for a strong bond.
- Position the slotted shelf board so it rests on top of these cleats. The back edge of the shelf should be flush with the back of the 2x4s.
- Secure the shelf to the cleats from underneath with screws. Also, drive a few screws down through the top of the shelf into the top of the 2×4 verticals.
Your basic rack is now assembled. Check that all joints are tight and the structure doesn’t wobble. Give it a light sanding to remove any splinters.
Mounting Your Trimmer Rack Securely
A rack full of tools is heavy. Proper mounting is critical for safety. Never rely on drywall alone to hold the weight.
Locate the wall studs in your chosen location using a stud finder. Mark them clearly with a pencil. Ideally, your rack’s vertical supports will align with two studs. If not, you’ll need to use appropriate hollow-wall anchors for the support that misses a stud.
Have a helper hold the rack in place on the wall. Ensure it is level. Drill pilot holes through the back of the 2×4 verticals and into the wall studs. Then, secure the rack with long 3-inch screws or lag bolts. Give it a firm tug to test stability before loading it with tools.
Customization Ideas for Your Needs
The standard design is just a starting point. Here are ways to make your rack work even harder for your specific garden.
- Add a Lower Bar: Install a dowel rod or a piece of pipe between the verticals near the bottom. This acts as a heel stop, preventing tools from sliding through too far.
- Dual-Level Rack: Build a second shelf above the first for lighter items like hand pruners, trowels, or spray bottles.
- Mobility: Instead of wall-mounting, attach the rack to a heavy, wide base made from 2x4s to create a freestanding unit you can move around.
- Finish It: Apply a coat of bright paint to make it stand out in a dark shed, or use a weatherproof stain if it will be in a damp area.
Maintenance and Safety Tips
A well-built rack should last for years with minimal care. Periodically check the mounting screws to ensure they haven’t loosened, especially if you are constantly taking tools on and off.
Don’t overload the rack. It’s designed for long-handled tools, not for storing bags of soil or heavy pots. Distribute the weight evenly across the slots.
Always push tools firmly down into their slots so the handles are fully seated. This prevents them from tipping out and falling, which could damage the tool or cause injury. Make sure the area in front of the rack is kept clear for safe access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if I don’t have power tools?
You can absolutely build this with hand tools. A hand saw, a drill, and a bit of extra time are all you really need. The project will just take a little longer.
Can I build a rack for my trimmer?
Yes, that’s the main purpose! This design is ideal for holding string trimmers, hedge clippers, and even long-handled loppers securely.
How to build a trimmer rack for a garage?
Follow the same steps. For garage walls, you can often mount directly to studs easily. Consider adding a drip tray or mat underneath if your tools are wet or muddy.
Is a DIY trimmer storage rack cost-effective?
Absolutely. The total material cost is often under $30, which is far less than buying a pre-made metal unit. You also get a custom fit for your space.
What’s the best wall for mounting a garden tool rack?
A solid wall with wooden studs is best. Avoid mounting directly to thin shed walls without reinforcement. If your shed has metal framing, use self-tapping metal screws designed for that purpose.
Building your own storage rack solves a common problem for gardeners. It clears up floor space, protects your investment in good tools, and makes your gardening time more efficient. With this simple project complete, you’ll always know where your trimmers are, and you’ll have the satisfaction of using a rack you built with your own hands. Grab your tools and get started this weekend—your organized shed awaits.