Build my own toolbox?

Question

Ok guys this might be kind of weird. But anyways heres the deal. Right now im low on cash and im bored, feeling creative, and i really want to build something that i can be proud of. So since i have a 1 cubic foot tool box for 50cubic feet of tools id like to try and build my own toolbox. Not to mention toolboxes are expensive. The cheap walmart ones are 100 bucks. So im probably going to make it out of wood. Its probably going to be pretty big about 3 foot tall mabye. Was wanting 3-10 drawers. Anyone got any suggestions or reasons why not to build a wood toolbox? Also what other materials besides wood should i get? Im assuming some roller things for the drawers. Advice? Thanks!

Answer 1

Sorry, but I agree with GetRDone. Lumber, drawer guides, hardware, etc. will cost you more than 100 dollars, if money is the issue. One answer is for making a truck box, but I didn't see anything about that in your question. I assume you are referring to a rolling tool chest. Try garage sales/thrift stores for a cheap chest of drawers. Adding wheels and making dividers for the drawers , plus the cost of the chest should be less than a 100 dollars. If you do want something more mobile, I use bucket buddies (Bucket Boss, etc.) I have several that have 50 or more pockets. They are fairly cheap, depending on brand.

Answer 2

Building our own toolboxes is something a lot of woodworkers do... so... no.. its not 'weird'. It's one way to show off your skills...a sample of your workmanship. This usually involves features specific to your type of work. Many will use solid hardwoods and spend time on high quality features. What kind of tools do you intend to keep in this tool chest? Do you need any special features? What kind of tools do you have to work with?

You can purchase drawer glides at most hardware or building supply stores... for tool drawers, you want some fairly good quality glides... the cheap ones will break down too easily.

If you've not priced wood lately, you're in for a shock, hehehe....

If you're just out to make a 'functional' tool box, then you might consider a good grade of plywood. For this project I would recommend a good 3/4" plywood, with 7 layers. Poplar plywood would be an excellent choice. It is strong, holds screws very well, and can be painted or stained, as it usually contains few to no voids. The 'sub-floor' plywood that is most commonly found will have a rougher texture, and voids. I'd use it to build a scrap box... but not a tool chest. An 'upgrade' to this would be a 'cabinet' quality plywood. Oak veneer plywoods will cost you about $50 a sheet...birch is less expensive.

I'd also recommend some casters...what type would really depend on how much weight you expect, and what kind of surface this will be rolling on.

Take time to browse the Rockler website - they have all kinds of materials, and supplies for many different kinds of projects.

I'd be happy to kick this around with you some more, if you want to email me - I enjoy projects like this, hehe.

Have Fun

Answer 3

I don't want to discourage you but when you talk about three to ten drawers you are looking at a lot more than $100.00 in materials. Good quality material is not cheap. Then you add the fasteners,glue and hardware you will go well over budget. I agree it could give you a great deal of satisfaction . I don't think it is practical. Good luck

Answer 4

You can find a lot of plans online for what you're looking for. Maybe not that big, but any plan can be adjusted. Many woodworkers use toolboxes they made themselves. I think they look better and is an example of your craftsmanship. I built my own and I am proud of that one more than the others I have purchased. Good luck man.

Look Here:
http://www.plansnow.com/shopstor.html

Answer 5

2 sheets of plywood, and 4- 6' 2x6s cut the plywood to fit between the fenderwells. 1 sheet on the bottom stand the 2x6s up front to back evenly spaced and screw the plywoods on top and bottom of 2x6s. now make your drawers so the handles go in flush with tailgate. its low profile and pretty stealth but can get heavey. good luck