How to Make a Six-Pack Carrier

BYOB gets a style upgrade with this classic caddy, modeled on an old-fashioned tool box. It securely holds half a dozen beer or soda bottles, and its dowel handle is a pleasure to grab and go. The vintage-look bottle opener (about $6; restaurantsupply.com) screwed to the side will really get the party started.

Cut list to build a carrier that measures 9 inches wide by 5 inches deep by 13 inches tall:

1×6 clear pine for the sides: two @ 13 inches, ripped to 5 inches wide

1×6 clear pine for the base: one @ 7½ inches, ripped to 5 inches wide

1-inch oak dowel for the handle: one @ 9 inches

¼-by-1 ½-inch oak slats for the side rails: four @ 9 inches

Step 1: Measure the Sides

Measure and mark 1½ inches in from each side at the top of a 1×5 board. Draw a line from each mark to the midpoint of each side of the board (6½ inches down). Repeat on the other board.

Step 2: Cut Out the Sides

Using a jigsaw, cut along the lines to form the taper of the sides of the carryall.

Step 3: Make the Handle Opening

Using a 1-inch paddle bit, drill a hole 1½ inches down and in the middle of each side for the dowel handle.

Step 4: Cut the Bottom and Attach the Sides

Attach the sides to the 7½-inch-long base with 1 ¼-inch screws.

Step 5: Add the Side Rails and the Handle

Attach ¼-by-1½-inch “rails” to the sides with 1-inch trim-head screws. Glue the handle in place, and finish the carrier with paint or stain. (We used red milk paint and antiquing wax.) Attach the bottle opener.

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