How to Make a Wooden Tool Box

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

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Many years ago, carpenters carried their tools in a simple wooden tool box. This tool box was easy to carry and offered easy access to the tools inside. Nowadays, tool boxes are much more complex, with drawers and compartments for all types and sizes of tools. But if you're looking to carry just a few basic tools, a wooden tool box might be what you need.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Table saw
Circular saw
Band saw
1-by-10 inch board
1-by-4 inch board
Measuring tape
Pencil
Drill
1 1/4-inch dowel
Hammer
Wood glue
Finishing nails
Nail set
Wood filler
Sandpaper
Safety glasses or goggles
Paint or stain

Step1

Make the bottom of the tool box by cutting a 1-by-10 inch board 18 1/2 inches in length. Cut two pieces from the 1-by-4 inch board the same length as the bottom to be used for the sides.

Step2

Cut two pieces of 1-by-10 inch boards 12 inches in length. Measure 4 1/2 inches from the bottom on each side. Make a mark on each side. Then measure 2 and 7/8 inches in from each top corner of the board. Make marks again.

Step3

Draw a line from the lower mark to the upper mark on each side to make two diagonal lines. Cut along these lines. Drill holes 1 and 5/8 inches from the top in the center of each end piece.

Step4

Notch both ends of the dowel cut 18 1/2 inches in length. Make the notches one inch deep. Make wedges from extra stock, 2 inches long and no wider than 1/4-inch at its widest.

Step5

Assemble the tool box by gluing and nailing both side pieces and end pieces to the bottom. Hammer in nails with a nail set. Apply wood filler to the holes when you finish.

Step6

Slide the dowel through the holes in the end pieces. Apply wood glue to each wedge and hammer a wedge into each notch. Cut off any excess wedge using a utility knife.

Step7

Wipe off any sawdust and excess glue. Paint or stain the wooden tool box as you choose.

Tips & Warnings

Sand all pieces thoroughly before assemblying tool box.
Staining with an antique oil finish is a great way to complete your wooden tool box.
Always wear safety glasses or goggles when cutting wood.