Machinist-Style Wooden Toolbox with Sliding Trays

Article 169: Machinist-Style Wooden Toolbox with Sliding Trays

By: A Woodworker Who Loves Functional Elegance

Inspired by the classic Gerstner machinist boxes, this wooden toolbox has drawers and sliding trays perfect for storing precision tools or carving knives.

Materials

• ½" and ¼" birch plywood or hardwood panels

• Drawer runners (wooden)

• Brass knobs and latch

• Felt for lining

• Small brass hinges

Dimensions

• Box: 18" W × 10" H × 8" D

• Drawers:

  • (2) – 2" H × 7½" W × 7" D

  • (1) – 3" H × 7½" W × 7" D

  • (Top tray): Full width sliding shelf

Tools Needed

• Table saw or hand saw

• Dado blade or chisel for drawer grooves

• Router (optional for edge profiles)

• Drill/driver

Steps

1. Cut Case Panels

   • Top, bottom, sides, back, and front door.

2. Assemble the Carcass

   • Glue and clamp, square all sides.

3. Install Drawer Runners

   • Use dados or wood cleats.

4. Build Drawers

   • Use rabbet or box joints; attach felt.

5. Add Tray

   • Routed groove lets it slide left/right.

6. Attach Door & Hardware

   • Use brass hinges and latch.

Sketch – Frontal Layout

 ┌────────────────────────────┐
 │ [ Tray (slides L/R) ]     │
 │┌──────────┐┌──────────┐   │
 ││ Drawer 1 ││ Drawer 2 │   │
 │└──────────┘└──────────┘   │
 │  [ Deeper Drawer ]        │
 └────────────────────────────┘