How to Build a Classic Storage Chest

From our Hammer It Out series: Relegate those plastic bins to their rightful place and replace them with classic wood storage

by This Old House

Skill

ModerateThe construction of the sides is fairly easy, but beveling the lid and base, and assembling the parts, takes precision.

Cost

$250

Estimated Time

10 hours

Miter saw
bar clamps – 36-in.
Hammer
Belt sander
Random orbit sander
combination square
Jigsaw
Brad nailer
Drill/driver
Miller 2x TruFit step drill bit
Flush cut saw
Circular saw
Screwdriver

Relegate those plastic bins to their rightful place and replace them with classic wood storage.

Find step-by-step instructions for How to Build a Storage Chest

To create the storage chest:

1. Cut the side pieces to length

2. Build the sides and lid

• Layout the sides with a spacer

• Clamp the glued sides

• Notch the handle into the top piece

3. Assemble the box parts

• Assemble the sides

• Drill with a step bit

• Insert glued dowels

• Cut dowels with saw

4. Build the base

• Rip base’s beveled edges

• Notch base

• Attach support strips to base pieces

• Screw the base to the box

5. Attach the lid with hinges