Build a Classic Wooden Toolbox

For literally hundreds or years, carpenters have carried their woodworking tools to and from their job sites in wooden toolboxes. The classic wooden toolbox is the essence of simplicity, with no screws or nails, instead relying on woodworking joinery to give the toolbox the strength to carry upwards of fifty pounds of tools.

In this set of free woodworking plans, we show you how to build our version of the classic wooden toolbox. As with those built 200 years ago, we'll use no mechanical fasteners, relying instead on the strength of woodworking joinery.

This woodworking project is typically painted, but could also be stained, then sealed with a few coats of polyurethane. Keep in mind that it is designed to be sturdy, and will likely get dinged up a bit with use.

Download the Free Woodworking Plans to build this classic wooden toolbox (PDF).

Difficulty Level

• Woodworking: Easy to Moderate
• Finishing: Paint or Stain/Polyurethane

Time to Complete

• 1-2 Hours

Recommended Tools

• Miter Saw or Circular Saw
• Table Saw or Radial Arm Saw
• Jigsaw or Band Saw
• Router with 1/4" Straight-cutting Bit
• Router Table
• Dovetail Jig with appropriate router bits

Materials Needed
• One (1) Piece 1x10 x 4' - Pine, Douglas Fir or Birch
• One (1) Piece of 1/2" Plywood, 12" x 24"
• One (1) Piece of 1-1/4" Dowel, 24-1/4" long
• Tape Measure
• Pencil
• Compass
• Waterproof Woodworking Glue such as Titebond II
• Sandpaper