Custom Tool Wall Vs. French Cleat Wall

A few years ago I made the French cleat tool wall, and with all of the other shop upgrades I’ve made, it was time to upgrade my tool storage to something more streamlined. Now, this might be a hot take, but I am not a big fan of the French cleat tool wall. It doesn’t allow for a tight layout and takes up more space than it saves in most cases. So, with that in mind, I decided to create custom hanging solutions for each of my layout tools. And though this took a bit of planning and time to finalize, I think the results were well worth it.

In this post, I’ll cover the benefits of building your own tool wall, from flexibility and durability to cost-effectiveness and increased storage capacity. Let's not forget the cherry on top - a visually stunning workspace. 

What is a French Cleat Wall System

A French cleat wall system is a simple and versatile method for hanging tools and other items on a wall. It consists of two parts: a cleat that is attached to the wall, and a tool or shelf that has a matching mirrored cleat attached to its back. This is created but ripping a 3-inch piece of wood, usually plywood at 45 degrees giving you two cleats. To hang a tool, simply slide the cleat on the tool into the cleat on the wall. The two cleats will interlock, holding the tool securely in place. French cleat wall systems are popular for use in woodworking shops because of their longevity. They also allow for easy customization and can hold a variety of different tools securly.

Disadvantages of a French Cleat Wall System

While French cleat wall systems are popular in woodshops, they have some disadvantages.

One disadvantage is that they can be difficult to install. The cleats need to be attached to the wall securely, and this can be a challenge if the wall is not straight. Additionally, the cleats can be difficult to align, which can make it difficult to hang tools evenly.

Another disadvantage is that French cleat wall systems can take up a lot of space. The cleats themselves take up space on the wall, and the tools that are hung on the cleats also take up space. This can make it difficult to move around in a small shop or garage.

Building a Custom Tool Wall

So, let’s talk about the benefits of building a custom tool wall. 

1. Customization and Flexibility:

To help with efficiency during project builds, it was important to tailor my tool wall design to suit my specific needs and layout tools. This type of tool wall can be adjusted to the size, shape, and layout to optimize storage space and accommodate your unique collection of tools. 

2. Durability and Longevity:

For the construction of the tool wall, I used Baltic birch plywood and walnut hardwood for the frame and tool holders. That aesthetic matches the other shop furniture I have, and I have plenty of scarp walnut. With that being said, this tool wall is designed to withstand the weight of the tools and frequent use. Plywood's superior strength and durability ensure that the tool wall will last for years. 

3. Cost-effectiveness:

As I mentioned above, I used some scrap walnut I had to build my tool wall. Building your own tool wall using plywood is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a pre-made tool wall system. Choosing affordable materials and customizing the design to fit your budget allows you to create a sturdy and functional tool wall without breaking the bank. Plus, you can dress it up any way you see fit.

4. Increased Storage Capacity:

For this project, I could lay out exactly where I wanted each tool to go, allowing more efficient use of the space. I like to keep my tools neatly organized and easily accessible, making my workspace more efficient and productive. Plus, everyone has different tools, so there is not a one-size-fits-all solution. But unlike a French cleat wall, a custom tool wall can neatly nest, taking advantage of that high-demand shop real estate.

5. Aesthetic Appeal:

For me, it was important to design a tool wall that served its functional purpose and complemented my workshop's aesthetic. Custom wood choices and layouts create a visually appealing display, and as I have shared before, you should make your workspace reflect the type of work you want to produce.

Building a custom tool wall offers numerous benefits over a French cleat wall. It provides customization, durability, cost-effectiveness, increased storage capacity, and aesthetic appeal. So, check out the full video to see how I tackled the customization for each tool.