You know, tool caddies have been a staple for as long as I can remember. Tradesmen used to rely on sturdy caddies to haul their tools to and from work, and while they might’ve been a bit larger and deeper back then, the basic design hasn’t changed much over the years.
There’s always the satisfaction of organizing your tools and seeing everything neatly in its place – it’s a small joy that never gets old. So for this project, I’m going to teach you the step-by-step process of making a tool caddy of your own.
Cut List
Wood | Qty | Dimensions (Inch) | Thickness |
End | 2 | 12 x 5-1/2 | 3/4 |
Side | 2 | 16 x 3-1/2 | 3/4 |
Bottom | 1 | 14-1/2 x 5-1/2 | 3/4 |
Rod | 1 | 15-1/2 |
Materials
Item | Qty | Specification |
Wood glue | 1 | |
Wood stain | 1 | |
Wood paint | 1 | |
Sandpaper | 3 | 80, 150, 220 grit |
Wood screws | 1 pac | 1-1/2″ |
Tools
- Jig saw or Scroll Saw
- Circular Saw
- Drill
- Clamps
- Sander
- ¾” Spade Bit or a Forstner Bit
Process
Step 1
Cut out all the necessary parts to the specified measurements
Step 2
Drill ¾” diameter holes through the bottom of the caddy, and create ½” depth holes in the caddy ends to accommodate the ¾” dowel rod.
Step 3
Create pilot holes in the sides and caddy ends to prepare for assembly.
Step 4
Assemble the caddy by attaching one end, two sides, and the bottom. Secure the dowel rod to one caddy end using wood glue, then attach the second caddy end and secure everything in place with clamps
Step 5
Add wood glue or construction adhesive to all connections to enhance the strength of the joints.
Pro Tip: If you have some trouble getting the sides and dowel to fit, use a bar clamp as a persuader. Alternatively, you can also stand the caddy on one side and use a hammer.
Step 6
Make sure to remove all excess glue residue to achieve a clean finish.
Step 7
Sand and finish, or leave it unfinished according to preference.
Final Thoughts
Having a dedicated caddy to keep your tools organized and easily accessible can make any DIY project a breeze.
I did have fun making this project, although you can, of course, get creative with the design. You can make it bigger, or deeper, or add your own unique touches to it. Just be sure to double-check your dimensions before you start cutting, to avoid any mishaps along the way.
Rich is a second-generation woodworker, having grown up in his dad’s workshop, “making sawdust.” Fifty years later, he’s still studying and working on improving his own woodworking skills, while also helping new woodworkers “catch the bug” for the smell of fresh sawdust. While Rich has done some custom woodworking projects, his greatest thrill is helping the next generation of woodworkers along, regardless of their age. His background as an engineer and a writer just adds to his ability to teach his true passion, woodworking.
