Shop Improvements

We thought it would be an excellent opportunity to look back at 2024—our favorite shop upgrades, biggest projects, and lessons learned—and then peek ahead at what’s in store for 2025.

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Hosted by Brian Benham

Portfolio: https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/
Brian Benham on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/benhamdesignconcepts.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ

Greg Porter

https://skyscraperguitars.com/
Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage

 

Show Notes  Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025: Shop Upgrades, Projects, and Goals Shop Upgrades That Made a Difference in 2024

1. Organization & Tool Storage

One of the biggest game-changers for both of us was improving shop organization. A mechanic once said, "Don’t put it down—put it away." That mindset has helped keep tools in their proper places, eliminating the frustration of searching for misplaced items.

- Brian’s Upgrade: A high-quality toolbox (not just a basic Harbor Freight or Home Depot option) made a massive difference. A well-organized toolbox reflects a well-organized workflow.

- Greg’s Upgrade: Adding Husky cabinets under his table saw extension improved storage and accessibility.

2. The Incra Miter Gauge

Brian recommended the Incra Miter Gauge, and it quickly became one of Greg’s most-used tools in 2024.

- Why It’s Great:

- Eliminates play in the miter slot for precise, repeatable cuts.

- Features an integrated stop block system (similar to high-end aftermarket options).

- Fine-adjustment capabilities make it perfect for exact angles.

Greg admits he was skeptical at first, preferring crosscut sleds, but after a year of use, he hasn’t touched his sled since.

3. The Black Box Vacuum Pump for CNC Workholding

Greg’s Black Box vacuum pump transformed his CNC workflow.

- The Problem: Workholding on a CNC can be a nightmare—tabs, screws, and clamps often lead to failed cuts.

- The Solution: The vacuum pump holds sheets firmly in place, reducing material waste and improving efficiency.

- Success rate went from ~75% to 98%.

- Added automation: The CNC now turns the pump on/off automatically via relay control.

4. The Track Saw Revolution

Greg was a longtime skeptic of track saws, preferring a circular saw and straightedge. But after breaking down hundreds of sheets of MDF, he caved and bought a Ridgid cordless track saw.

- Why It Won Him Over:

- Faster, more accurate breakdown of sheet goods.

- Paired with an MFT-style workbench (from Fred Sexton of Bristol Artisan Co.) and Bora Speed Horses, creating a portable, efficient cutting station.

- No more wrestling full sheets—everything gets broken down outside before entering the shop.

5. The Festool Debate

Brian and Greg had a fun back-and-forth about Festool.

- Pros:

- Industry-leading dust collection (great for job sites and clean shops).

- The Domino joiner is a game-changer for furniture makers.

- Cons:

- High price tag.

- Some tools may not justify the cost for hobbyists or those who don’t need ultra-portability.

6. Packout Systems & Tool Storage

Both Brian and Greg explored different modular storage systems (Milwaukee Packout, Klein, etc.).

- Greg’s Pick: Klein Tool Cases—expensive but rugged, with clear lids and customizable bins.

- Brian’s Experience: Packout systems are great for contractors but may be overkill for shop-only use.

7. Harbor Freight’s Improvement

Greg noted that Harbor Freight’s quality has significantly improved over the years.

- Icon Tools Line: Their ratcheting wrenches and socket sets now rival mid-tier brands like Husky and Craftsman.

- Toolboxes: No longer the flimsy junk of the past—now a solid budget option.

 

 Notable Projects from 2024

Brian’s Big Builds

- Las Vegas Casino Project: A massive, high-profile installation that pushed his team’s limits.

- Red Rocks Amphitheater Work: A challenging but rewarding project (technically late 2023, but close enough!).

Lesson Learned: Installation is just as critical as fabrication. Even the best-built pieces can fail if not installed correctly.

Greg’s Product Expansion

When a competitor in the guitar-making jigs and tools space went out of business, Greg saw an opportunity.

- Redesigned & Released Over 20 New Products, including:

- Side benders (for shaping guitar sides).

- Outside molds & cutaway forms (previously unavailable).

- Mortise & tenon jigs (V3 design, improved from older versions).

- Backward Compatibility: Ensured his new tools worked with older systems, earning gratitude from customers.

 

Looking Ahead to 2025

Greg’s Goals:

1. Build His First Commissioned Guitar – Learning from luthier Robbie O’Brien to refine construction techniques.
2. Expand Skyscraper Guitars – Transition from a one-man operation to a scalable business with employees.
3. Finish the Porsche 356 Project – After a busy 2024, he’s eager to get back to this passion build.

 

Brian’s Plans:

- Grow His YouTube Presence – Shifting focus to more educational content for aspiring woodworkers.

- Streamline Production – Finding ways to balance custom work with repeatable, profitable projects.

 Final Thoughts

2024 was a year of tool upgrades, shop efficiency, and big projects. For 2025, the focus shifts to growth, refinement, and new challenges.

 

What were your biggest shop upgrades or projects in 2024? What are you looking forward to in 2025? Let us know in the comments!