Getting your French cleat spacing right is the difference between a frustrating wall and a calm, organised workshop. Too close and holders clash, too far apart and you waste space.
In this guide, I’ll show you the exact method I use to achieve flawless spacing every time — the same system that powers my own workshop and the Neat French Cleat product line. You’ll learn the best heights, the right gaps, and pro tips that make setting up your wall simple, efficient, and future-proof.
Why French Cleat Spacing Matters
When cleats are too far apart, you waste valuable wall space. Too close, and you risk tool holders clashing or not fitting correctly.
Perfect spacing ensures:
- Maximum vertical storage without unused, dead zone, wasted gaps.
- Consistent tool holder dimensions for easy building and swapping.
- Faster, smoother workflow with everything in reach.
Common French Cleat Spacing Mistakes
Over the years, I’ve seen (and made) all the common errors:
- Starting from the bottom – This often leads to mismatched spacing and wasted space at the top.
- Using random blocks for spacing – Inconsistent gaps make it impossible to standardize tool holders.
- Leaving big gaps – You lose potential storage rows that could hold more tools.
The Ideal French Cleat Spacing (Step-by-Step)
The method I use in my own workshop — and in the Neat French Cleat system — is simple but powerful:
Start with the top cleat
Set it at about 1,950 mm (6’5″–6’6″) high. This is comfortable for most people to reach without strain.
Then – Work your way down using my precision spacer
Place your spacer on top of the top cleat’s point, then offer up the next cleat into the cleat spacer. Repeat until you reach the bottom of the wall.
Note… I recommend a 6 – 12mm (¼″-1/2″) space for perfect clearance between holders (I use 6mm). This small gap makes removal easy but doesn’t waste space.
Mount your tall tool holders on the top cleat
This allows you to maximize your wall space below these taller tool holders
French Cleat Spacing Ideas
How far apart should French cleats be?
If you plan on storing mainly small tools, space your wall cleats close together, at say 5″ or 125mm apart
If you will be storing larger tools, increase the distance apart to say, 8″ or 200mm.
If you’re not sure what you will be storing, or you plan on storing a mixture of large and small tools and consumables, stick with the 5″ spacings.
Adjusting for Your Workshop
- Tall tools (e.g., garden spades, clamps): Use fewer wall cleats and leave larger vertical spaces.
- Small hand tools: Tighter cleat spacing to maximize rows.
- Mixed-use walls: Create zones with different spacing.
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
- Plywood for tool holders (6 mm for light tools, 12 mm for heavy-duty items)
- Precision spacer (buy plans or DIY)
- Tape measure, level, and drill
Pro Tips
- Pre-finish cleats before mounting to prevent warping and staining
- Keep a pair of spacers for future expansions
- Label rows to help place and rearrange holders quickly
Skip the maths – use my precision cleat spacers.
- Perfect spacing row‑to‑row
- Faster installs
- No tape‑measure gymnastics on a ladder
Watch the Method in Action
FAQ
Q: How far apart should French cleats be?
Q: Should I start at the top or bottom?
Q: Can I mix different spacings?
STOP CALCULATING. START CUTTING.
Manual spacing is the #1 cause of “Holder Clash.” If your rows are off by even a few millimeters, your tools won’t fit side-by-side.
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About the Author
Alan is a maker, woodworker, and creator of the Neat French Cleat system. After years of trial and error (and a few walls that didn’t quite work), he developed a modular approach to French cleat storage that prioritizes efficiency, aesthetics, and real workshop workflows.
Find more plans, videos, and workshop organization tips at neatfrenchcleat.com
Next Steps For Your French Cleat Wall
