Building a Dovetailed Wooden Toolbox – Strong, Classic, Portable

Article 51: Building a Dovetailed Wooden Toolbox – Strong, Classic, Portable

By: A Woodworker Who Trusts His Tools to Wood

This open-top toolbox uses dovetail joints for rugged construction. It's a great way to practice hand joinery while making something useful for the shop.

Materials

• 1x6 hardwood (oak, ash, maple) – 6 linear feet

• 1/2" dowel or rod for handle – 14"

• Wood glue

Cut List:

• (2) Sides: 20" x 6"

• (2) Ends: 6" x 6" (cut with sloped profile)

• (1) Bottom: 18 1/2" x 5 1/2"

• (1) Dowel: 14"

Tools Needed

• Dovetail saw and chisels

• Mallet

• Drill and bit for dowel

• Clamps

• Sander

Steps

1. Mark and Cut Dovetails

   • Cut pins on ends, tails on sides. Dry fit before glue-up.

2. Cut End Slopes

   • Taper top of end pieces and drill holes for dowel 1" from top.

3. Glue and Clamp

   • Assemble with glue. Insert dowel handle before glue dries.

4. Finish

   • Smooth all edges and apply a durable oil or wax finish.

Sketch – Toolbox Design

Side View:
  ____________________
 |                    |
 |      Tools Here    | ← Open top
 |____________________|
 /                    \
/__ Handle (dowel) ___\