Build an open wooden tool tote

Before you start

Lay the tools out to see how they will sit, then allow room for your fingers under the handle. Choose straight timber and a sound hardwood dowel with no cracks. Sketch two taller ends, two low sides and a base, and plan how the handle will be retained before cutting.

Tools and materials

• Straight timber and hardwood dowel
• Tape measure, pencil and square
• Saw, drill, backing scrap and eye protection
• Wood glue, screws and clamps
• Sandpaper

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Sketch the tray and handle

   Set the inside length from the longest tool, then choose a width and shallow side height that let you reach it easily. Draw both end panels with the handle holes at the same height and leave sound material around each hole.

2. 2

   Cut matching ends and drill

   Cut the base and sides. Cut the ends as a matched pair and mark each hole from the same bottom edge. Clamp them against a backer and drill with a bit sized for the dowel. Dry-fit the dowel and check the handle clears the tools.

3. 3

   Trap the handle and assemble the box

   Fit the dowel into both ends before closing the box. Use matching blind holes in thick end panels if your design allows, so the dowel cannot slide through. Glue the handle in place and join the sides and base through pilot holes while the ends are clamped square.

4. 4

   Check for square and clean up

   Compare the diagonals of the base and adjust if needed before the glue sets. Wipe away excess glue and inspect the areas around the handle holes for cracks.

5. 5

   Check the joints

   Let the glue cure and sand the grip and edges. Test with a light load close to the bench, then increase to the intended tool load if the joints stay firm.

Check the result

Test the empty tote first, then add the intended hand tools gradually while keeping it close to a bench. The handle should neither rotate nor move side to side, and the base should stay square. Split the load between two boxes if you cannot carry it comfortably.

References

• Bosch DIY guidance on safe sawing, drilling and workholding