Building the perfect tool chest

Tools must be stored safely, but they also must be accessible. The toolboxes used for this purpose are often thought of as purely utilitarian. But some do-it-yourselfers want to put them on display; traditionally, toolboxes have even been used to show potential clients the fine work their owner was capable of producing. Stack, a writer and cabinetmaker, shows readers how to create 15 toolboxes that run from simple to sumptuous. He includes a portable box that would hold a basic repair collection and could be made by a beginner; a rolling, multidrawer chest; machinist's chests; wall-mounted cabinets; and several showpieces that would impress even the most persnickety client. Each entry includes step-by-step instructions supplemented by profuse color photographs and a detailed materials list; nearly every woodworker could make at least one of these designs, although the showpieces would be challenging even for the experienced. Many of the designs could be used for other purposes, such as storing collectibles or other treasures. Recommended for public libraries. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.