Free DIY Box & Chest Plans

File Box Plan

1). Cut two rectangles of plywood 11-by-12 1/2 inches, two 11-by-6-inch pieces and a 12 1/2-by-6 inch strip.
2). Place the 12 1/2-by-6-inch section on a flat surface. This will serve as the base of the file box.
3). Measure and mark 1 and 2 inches in from a short end of both 11-by-6-inch sections. Bore a finger hole between the marks with a 1-inch flat bit for easier file transport.
4). Measure 1 inch below the bottom of each finger hole and cut a shallow file track the full width of the wood piece with a router and 1/4-inch bit.
5). Line up the four wall sections against the base and clamp in place. The finger holes should be at the top of the box.
6). Secure the box walls to each other and the base with finishing nails. Insert file folders into the guide tracks.

1). Cut a 18-by-30-inch section, three 16-by-30-inch panels and two 18-by-19 1/2 inch pieces from the plywood sheet.
2). Set the 16-by-30-inch sections up against each other to create a U-shape. This will serve as the bottom of the box and the front and rear walls. Secure with wood screws.
3). Measure down 2 inches and in 6 inches from each end of a 18-by-19 1/2-inch panel on one wide end. Mark and cut out a handle with a jigsaw. Place the piece over the 18-by-19 1/2 inch section and trace the handle. Cut it out with the jigsaw.
4). Attach the sides with handles to the U-shaped frame to create the missing walls and secure with wood screws.
5). Mount a hinge along the top edge of the rear 16-by-30-inch wall and attach the remaining wood piece to the other hinge strip to create the chest lid. Sand rough edges before painting with bright colors. Use for toy storage and as a child's seat.