Wood Toolbox Plans

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Difficulty

Beginner Projects

How about a toolbox that looks good on the shelf, so you don't have to hide it at the back of a closet?

This wood toolbox is inspired by vintage wood toolboxes, and features a large, roomy compartment, it will hold up to use and store all your tools with style.

Free step by step plans from Ana-White, include detailed diagrams, shopping and cut list!

Build Post from Jaime Costiglio

See construction details and finishing tips right here - please take a second to stop over and check it out.

Dimensions

Preparation

Shopping List

Construction with plywood as shown in photos and diagrams

12" x 32" of 1/2" plywood
13" x 8" of 1/4" plywood
1 - 3/4" dowel 14" long
3/16" dowels for handle stoppers
1 1/4" brad nails wood glue

Alternative 1x8 Construction

1 - 1x8 @ 6 feet long
1 - 3/4" dowel at 16" long
1-1/4" brad nails
wood glue

Cut List

Cut List Using Plywood Pieces

2 - 1/2" plywood 12" x 7" (sides)
2 - 1/2" plywood 12" x 8" (ends)
1 - 1/4" plywood 13" x 8" (base)
1 - 3/4" dowel @ 14" (handle)
2 - 3/16" dowel @ 1 1/4" (handle stoppers)

Cut List Using 1x8 Boards

1 - 1x8 @ 13" - bottom
2 - 1x8 @ 12" - ends
2 - 1x8 @ 14-1/2" - sides
1 - 3/4" dowel @ 16" - handle (can also use a 1x2 cut to 13")

Tools

Instructions

Step 1

1x8 Construction option

Attach the bottom to the two ends with 1-1/4" brad nails and glue.

Then mark out the sides on the ends, and cut out the ends to allow for easy reaching inside the toolbox with a jigsaw.

Attach the sides with glue and 1-1/4" brad nails.

Use a wood dowel or 1x2 for the handle.

Step 2

Once you get all your 1/2" plywood pieces cut, it's time to cut those ends into the trug shape. You'll need a spade bit to drill the hole for the handle, and then a round object to help you shape the curved sides like Jaime did here:

Once you get one end done, use it as a pattern to cut the other end.

Step 3

With the sides done, nail to the sides with 1 1/4" nails with glue.

Step 4

Then attach the bottom with glue and nails.

Step 5

Then insert the wood dowel for the handle.

Jaime recommends adding smaller dowels to keep the handle in place as well.

Finishing Instructions

Preparation Instructions

Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.

Project Type

Home Decor