Learn to build your French cleat wall
Hi, I’m Alan. I design the Neat French Cleat system in my own workshop, and these videos show you exactly how it all goes together, from dialling in your laser to hanging your first tool holder. Pick where you’re at and jump straight in:
Get your laser dialled in
Good cuts make everything else easy. Start here if you’re cutting your first French cleat parts.
Laser Cut Box Joint Kerf Settings
Get your kerf right so box joints fit snugly first time.
6mm to Quarter Inch Conversion
Using ¼-inch material? How to convert 6mm plans so everything still fits.
Using Jigsaw Files
How the jigsaw files work and when to use them.
The Pitfalls of Laser Cutting Plywood
The plywood problems that spoil cuts, and how to avoid them.
Try it on your own laser. Grab some free French cleat plans and see how the system fits together before you commit.
Build your wall
Step-by-step assembly, so your first build goes together without the guesswork.
Basic Neat French Cleat Assembly
The basics of putting your Neat French Cleat parts together.
How to Assemble a Laser Cut French Cleat Double Shelf
Step-by-step assembly of the double shelf.
Plan and hang your wall
French Cleat Installation: Do’s and Don’ts
What to do, and what to avoid, when hanging cleats on your wall.
Simple French Cleat Hacks for Small Spaces
Ideas for getting more out of a small wall.
Ready to build the whole wall? The Master System has every tool holder, shelf and wallboard you’ve seen in these videos.
A tidier, more useful workshop
Not everything here is about cleats. These are the habits and projects that keep my own shop working.
11 Lazy Habits for a Clean, Tidy Workshop
Small habits that keep a workshop clean without the effort.
I Tried Swedish Death Cleaning on My Workshop
Decluttering the workshop, and what changed afterwards.
Space Saving Outfeed Table for Small Workshops
An outfeed table that doesn’t eat your floor space.
Don’t Build a Wood Cart – Do This Instead
What I built instead of a wood cart, and why.
No laser? No problem.
Wondering if you really need a laser—or which one to buy?
You’re not alone. Most tools look overhyped or overpriced.
This quick guide breaks it down without the tech jargon or fluff.
Get clear answers, skip the noise, and build with confidence.
Watch the quick guide (what to buy, what to avoid) →
Never miss a new video
New videos go up on YouTube first. Subscribe and you’ll see them as soon as they’re out.
Got a quick question?
Ask away—I’m happy to help or tell me what you’re building and I’ll point you to the right plan.