For the past twenty years I have been building things using a variety of materials and techniques. I have built exhibits at the Bronx Zoo and architectural models in Boston. I weld, build cabinets, design and fabricate furniture. I do plumbing, hang sheetrock, and paint signs. I sew Inflatable art, cast cement sinks and lay brick.
Perhaps it is understood that I have a lot of tools. Like any craftsman I have found that organization is key when it comes to having the right tool at the right time. For a time I apprenticed for a master boatbuilder and cabinetmaker. From him I inherited a beautiful and classic toolbox. It keeps tools organized, has a drawer for small parts and looks cool. But, it’s a back breaker too — so I attached some skateboard wheels and a stick so I could roll the box around. This was a big improvement, but I could do better.
I still expected to find a perfect toolbox, but I could not find one. While I admire many elements of different tool carriers, I still was not happy with the overall choices. I decided to make my own. I call it “Cart 45”. It is unique because it holds all of its contents at a 45o angle whether it is standing vertical, or lying down. This feature adds convenience to moving and storage. Shelves hold the tools in place and have adjustable dividers. There is also a larger compartment for bigger items and it holds a case for very small parts.
Now I can place my toolbox horizontally on my workbench or have it standing up next to me at the job site eliminating the need to bend over so much. It holds all of my commonly used hand tools and whatever other job specific item I may need. I carry it upstairs in the vertical position with one hand. In that position the center of gravity is directly under the hand giving it stability and balance. At the top of the stairs I drag the Tool Caddy like it is luggage on wheels, and when I get to where I’m working, I place the tool box in either the standing position or in the horizontal position for easy access to all my tools.
This toolbox works! It was designed out of necessity and it has been field tested by me with my own tough standards of what functional should look, work and feel like. I’m confident that others in my line of work will think so too.
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- Jesse Good