Essential Tool Chest

This is my version of Fine Wood Working Mike Pekovich's essential tool chest. I was going to wing it but I am glad I bought his plan and instructions. Learned a ton. Everything was the first time for me including hand cut dovetails, bridle joints, through tenons and wedged through tenons. My dovetails improved as I went. My cabinet dovetails are ok but my drawer dovetails are more passable.

I am amazed it turned out without any major errors. When I resawed the walnut panels for the top, they blew apart during the last inch and developed a pronounced bow. I placed them on the lawn trying to flatten them but eventually decided that curved panel tops would add my own flair. Definitely added to the complexity when making the rabbets on the panels.

He recommended using a light wood such as butternut but I couldn't resist making it out of walnut and maple. Finished it with a blonde shellac. After placing all my hand tools in it, it will not be moved very far.

The last picture was my wife's idea. Rather then drawer locks, I cut holes through the back of the drawers and lock them in place with a wood stick which passes through all of the shelves. After loading it up with my tools, I decided I should be sponsored by Lee Valley. All of my tools are from that store.