These handy Spill-Proof Carpentry Caddies are perfect for organising screws, nails, hooks, bottle caps etc on your carpentry table. They help kids see what they have, easily access what they need, and reduce the risk of spills!
Get the kids involved in the building process! It fosters a sense of ownership and contribution to their learning environment and introduces children to basic carpentry tools in a fun and meaningful way.
Materials Needed:
Large, flat piece of wood (about 25mm thick) – we used a 250mm wide x 450mm long, but adjust as needed.
Saw (optional, only if cutting wood to size)
Screws choose short ones that won't poke through the back of your board.
Selection of recycled containers (takeaway containers or hummus tubs work well) - save the lids for easy pack up!
How to Make Your spill-proof Carpentry Caddy:
Cut wood to size if needed. Sand any rough corners and edges so it’s nice and smooth.
Arrange your containers on your board for best fit.
Clamp your board to the carpentry bench to keep it steady while you drill.
Drill a pilot hole through the centre of each container and into the board. This will help guide your screw and make it easier to turn.
Put a screw in the hole and using your screwdriver, secure the container to the wood.
Use short screws that won't poke through the back of the board.
Be careful not to overtighten the screws and crack the plastic.Repeat for each container until they are all screwed to your board.
Your Spill-Proof Carpentry Caddy is ready for use! Now fill the containers with a selection of nails, screws, washers, bottle caps etc. and let’s get building!
Lisa’s Top Tips:
Kids can decorate the caddy using pens, markers, or paint. Doing this before attaching the containers to the wood may be easier.
Add labels to each container to identify the carpentry supplies stored inside (e.g., nails, screws, hooks).
Lids make packing up easy. No spills when you move things to shelves or cabinets!