Q: As I've been working on little things inside my condo, I've been building a collection of tools. Rather than store them all jumbled up in the packaging they come with — a clamshell case here, a tote bag there — I'd like to invest in a toolbox or a tool chest. I'd also like to buy one I don't have to hide.
I've been storing my tools in cube fabric boxes, in an Expedit bench. It's not particularly efficient, since I still need to pull the boxes out, and my tools are just a jumbled pile inside. I'm also not a fan of just having two compartments per cube, as with the Expedit drawer inserts. Can any of you suggest a tool storage solution, like a chest or box, that attractively fits inside an Expedit? I would ideally have something like a Craftsman tool chest in a 13'' cube, but they don't make that.
Sent by Dennis
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(Image: Expedit from Maegan's Home Office, photo by Maegan Tintari )
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those are old record holders/record carries/storage boxes.... never thought to put them in the Expedit shelf, great idea
Canvas Klein tool bags come in 12".
Depending on the size if your tools you might consider a fishing tackle or even a makeup kit box. If you want something more retro I've had some luck at markets with sewing boxes. Some of the older ones are the right size.
I love the plastic cases with dividers for screws, odds & ends, batteries etc. The 12" ones fit beautifully in an Expedit (I use them in my sewing room).
It would take a little looking but a small tackle box or similar style tool box would fit, and keep everything better organized.
I second Gail w/ the fishing tackle box, the dividers are adjustable for different sized contents, you can buy them in single depth or multiple layers, they have a handy snap shut clear plastic top and handle too. I use them not only for tools, but for beads & other craft supplies, make up and jewelry.
I would consider card catalog boxes. They're all over etsy.com. Just pay attention to the sizes because they're not all the same. You can mix and match, paint them, etc.
Anyone have a link for the plastic tackle boxes?
Ikea makes an attractive plywood box called Prant and it comes with a lid, and is dimensioned to fit the Expedit. Plywood box + tools....they were made for each other!
Ditto on the Prant, but not too heavy a load. Put a floor of 1/2 plywood inside the Prant and and nail/screw in from the sides. A problem with finding a tool box that fits the Expedit cube is it's depth; 13". Many small tackle boxes will fit, but they will only handle small hand tools and supplies (measures, small hammer, wrenches, maybe a 12" try-square).
How big are the openings on Expedit shelves? One of these vintage Samsonite train cases would work if your tools aren't too big. These old "train cases" are indestructible. I have one that has a removable plastic shelf that fits at the top. Divided for holding make-up, I think. But it would be a great holder for nails, screws, and twine.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/105171289/vintage-aspen-samsonite-luggage-train
We have wire mesh baskets that pull out of the bottom shelf of our 5x5 expedit, but things like screwdrivers wouldn't do so well there. I've seen quite a few storage type boxes at Winners (TJ Maxx/Marshalls/Homesense) so I would suggest keeping an eye out in places like that. I love many of the other ideas such as card catalogs or vintage metal boxes though (but it depends on your decor of course). Scope out antique spots- good luck!
The Container store has a variety of storage boxes that have inserts of different sizes---to help keep tools organized.
I just bought this about a month ago and it is PERFECT for storing all of our tools and bits.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/15-Drawer-Mobile-Organizer-Smoke/17299111?findingMethod=rr