I have outgrown my tool roll so decided to make a dedicated toolbox for the main hand tools I use for repairing clocks. This is one post in a series about my various homemade toolboxes: so if that’s your thing, strap in!

Those are all the tools I want to store and have easy access to: files, screwdrivers, broaches, pliers, measuring tools, small hammers, and some clockmaking-specific tools like plate spreaders, cam pullers, winding keys, and a jewelers saw.

After thinking about this problem for a while, I started to materialize my ideas with a sketch.

Then I visited my uncle’s woodworking shop to use the table saw

The construction is almost entirely of slots and rabbets.

And this is what it looks like containing everything!

I’m particularly happy with the drawer. I just winged the locking mechanism and think it turned out well. (Also my friend Hannah claims it adds aura points)

My main design principle when it comes to toolboxes is to minimize the footprint by taking advantage of vertical space. So in this box, instead of having the flat tools lay down, I stood them upright. This takes up less desk surface, less X and Y, by using more Z.

Check out my other boxes:

Electrical

Watchmakers Lathe

General Tools