Are you one of those people who store screws, nails, and drill bits in old Folgers coffee cans, with everything jumbled together? Are your power drills just tossed onto your workbench, or buried under a pile of tools, leaving them vulnerable to scratches, dents, or tangled cords? If you’ve ever spent too much time digging through them, only to give up and head to the store to buy new ones, consider building your own DIY nail, screw, drill bit, and power drill storage organizer.
Fastening tools are getting more expensive that you need to save them, but you don’t want to spend hours looking for something you “might” have. Here’s a list of all the things that people tried to store all their fastening tools and keep them organized.
Table of Contents
- DIY Nail And Screw Organizer
- Homemade Drill Bit Organizer
- DIY Power Drill Storage
- FAQs
- How do you organize a lot of drill bits?
- Where to keep drill bits?
- How do you keep drill bits organized?
- How do you store a power drill?
- Should I store a drill with the battery attached?
- How do you maintain a corded drill?
- How do you make a screw holder?
- How to categorize fasteners?
DIY Nail And Screw Organizer
Repurpose Mayo, Peanut Butter, and Other Jars
These jars are the perfect size for storing different types of screws and nails. The lids are often strong enough to hold the weight of the jar once attached securely to a surface. The best part? It’s practically free. Instead of throwing the jar away or recycling it, you can simply wash it, peel off the label, and repurpose it to organize the nails and screws in your garage.
Screw the Lids to Shelves or Rafters
Screw the metal lids of these jars to the underside of a shelf or a wood beam (ideally at eye level for easy access). This way, you don't lose precious shelf space, and the jars hang underneath, easily accessible when you need them. The lids are screwed into place, leaving enough space for you to screw and unscrew the jars from the lids.
Label Your Jars for Easy Organization
Once your jars are screwed into place, the next step is labeling. People commonly use duct tape to label each jar with its contents, like "1-inch drywall screws," "deck screws," or even "random screws" for mixed bits. This keeps everything clear and helps you quickly find the item you're looking for.
Use Plastic Jars for Flexibility
Some people prefer plastic jars, like those that originally held jam, coffee, or peanut butter. They are more durable than glass and are ideal for fasteners made with corrosive materials. The screw-on lids of plastic jars work just as well for hanging them up.
Altoid Tins
One of the advantages of using Altoid tins is that they are completely enclosed. You can open the outer container without worrying about the screws or nails spilling out. The secure, closed storage makes it easy to carry the tin without the fear of knocking everything over.
- Place each group of screws or nails into an Altoid tin.
- Use a P-touch labeler to label the edges of each Altoid tin.
- For added organization, place the Altoid tins on their sides inside a larger clamshell case or storage box.
Plastic Gum Containers
If you chew a lot of gum, you may already have a collection of these containers. Their sturdy, clear design (like Extra gum containers) makes it easy to see the contents while keeping everything secure. They are free, easy to collect, and perfect for organizing your screws and nails.
One great advantage of using plastic gum containers is that you can write on them with a permanent marker, but if you need to change the labels, simply wipe them off with a bit of hand sanitizer. This makes it easy to reuse the containers as you store different screw sizes and types.
Bins
While Akro Mils bins can be a bit more expensive than other options, they are often available at thrift stores like Goodwill for much cheaper. Many people have found Akro Mils organizers for as little as $10, making them a budget-friendly storage solution when purchased second-hand.
- The bins are great for a wide variety of screw sizes and types. For example, a small bin can hold up to 50 #8 screws, while a larger bin can store 100 3-inch screws with ease. Some bins even come with dividers to help make better use of the space.
- For bins with dividers, separate screws into categories such as "Wood Screws," "Structural Screws," or "Deck Screws" for easy identification.
- Akro Mils bins can be placed directly on a workbench for easy access or hung on the wall if space is limited.
Stanley Compartment Box
The Stanley 014725R is an affordable option for quality hardware storage. With discounts from Zoro (like a 10% off coupon for making an account), you can save even more on your purchase, making it a great value for organizing your screws and nails.
Harbor Freight Bins
Harbor Freight’s 20-bin medium portable parts storage case or the 8-bin portable parts storage case are excellent choices for organizing screws and nails. The 8-bin version offers more space, and the deep bins provide room for various sizes of hardware. These bins are affordable and efficient for organizing a variety of screws and nails.
To save space, you can mount the small parts bins on a custom shelf on the wall. This setup keeps everything within reach without taking up valuable bench space. If you have many parts, this system can also be expanded by adding more bins, as the bins can be stacked or grouped together.
Homemade Drill Bit Organizer
Using Oak, Pine, Magnets, And Basic Tools
Materials Needed: 1-inch oak, 1-inch pine, 8 magnets, 7/16 drill bit, 3/4-inch forstner bit, wood glue, clamps, sandpaper, lacquer (optional).
- Cut the Wood: Cut oak to fit your drawer and pine for the bottom.
- Drill Holes: Use a 7/16 drill bit for drill bits and 3/4-inch forstner bit for magnets.
- Glue & Assemble: Apply wood glue, insert magnets, and clamp until dry.
- Sand & Finish: Sand smooth and apply lacquer if desired.
- Test Fit: Place bits in holes and adjust as needed.
Pegboard Drill Bit Organizer
Materials Needed: 1x6 pine, 1x4 pine, 1x2 pine wood, 5/16-inch drill bit (for drill bits), 3/4-inch forstner bit (for magnets), magnets, wood glue, clamps, sandpaper, pegboard, and L-hooks for mounting.
- Prepare the Wood: Cut the 1x6, 1x4, and 1x2 pieces to the desired size. Glue them together and trim the excess wood.
- Drill Holes for Driver Bits: Drill 5/16-inch holes for short bits, 3/8-inch for long bits. Space holes evenly.
- Install Magnets: Drill 3/4-inch holes for the magnets on the back. Insert them with glue to hold the organizer on the pegboard.
- Mount on Pegboard: Use L-hooks to attach the organizer to your pegboard.
Using Index Boxes
You can store your drill bits in the original index boxes they came in. While not all boxes might be full, they are portable and easy to take along when working away from your shop.
You can use multiple index boxes around your shop for easy access to your drill bits. By organizing them by size in each box, you'll be able to quickly find the right bit when needed.
Homemade Wooden Blocks Drill Bit Organizer
For both large and medium-sized drill bits, you can organize them in custom wooden blocks. Each block holds bits of the same size in rows, and you can label the sizes on the side for easy identification.
You can keep a small wooden block on your workbench for quick access to a selection of your most-used drill bits. This setup allows you to grab the right bit quickly while you're working.
Small Drill Bits in Oil Cans
For smaller drill bits, you can repurpose oil cans and label each one with the bit sizes. This keeps your smaller bits organized and easy to access.
Small Drill Bits in a Fishing Tackle Box
A fishing tackle box with multiple trays can be your homemade drill bit organizer. You can label each tray with the bit size, ensuring everything stays organized. The bottom of the box can hold miscellaneous accessories like stops and recessing tools.
DIY Power Drill Storage
Wall-Mounted Power Drill Storage
Materials Needed: 17mm plywood, trim router, polyurethane, pocket screws, spacer blocks, cleat system, pegboard, drill bits, charger and battery holders.
- Build the Frame: Cut the plywood and create a rabbit joint for the back panel to fit flush with the sides.
- Add Dividers: Use a trim router to cut dado grooves for dividers, sealing with polyurethane before cutting.
- Assemble and Secure: Use pocket screws to secure the frame, ensuring proper measurements for alignment.
- Mount on the Wall: Attach the unit to the wall using a cleat system or directly on a pegboard for easy access.
- Store Drill Bits: Arrange bits by size, placing larger ones at the back and smaller ones in front for quick access.
- Add Extra Storage: Mount charger and battery holders underneath the unit to keep everything organized.
2. Cordless Power Drill Storage Station
Materials Needed: Scrap lumber, 2x6 tongue-and-groove spruce, plywood, forstner bit, router, screws, nails.
- Cut Lumber and Plywood: Cut plywood and wood pieces to 49 inches. Bevel the edges at a 5-degree angle to create a slight cant for the upper shelf.
- Cut Slots for Tools: Use a forstner bit to cut slots for tools. Round the ends with a router for a smooth finish.
- Assemble the Storage: Glue and screw the pieces together. Use nails to hold the pieces in place before securing with screws.
- Finishing Touches: Round the front edges to prevent splinters, but avoid making the slots too wide.
- Mounting: Mount the storage unit on the wall, using screws in studs or directly into plywood for secure installation.
Buy Quality Fasteners, Store Them Forever
You’ve probably inherited a pile of screws, drill bits, power drills, and other tools from your dad (or maybe even your granddad!). These little treasures are more than just tools, they’re part of a family tradition. But just because they’ve been passed down doesn’t mean they should sit around in a jumbled mess, right?
At ATC Construction Fasteners, we totally understand. Since 2008, we've been all about providing superior, durable construction fasteners. Our Eagle Claw Fasteners are the best choice for anyone who needs strength and reliability. We’re proud to provide solutions that last.
So, when you buy fasteners from ATC Construction Fasteners, you're not just picking up the best on the market; you’re investing in products that will serve you (and possibly your grandkids) for years to come. Store them right, and they’ll be ready to go whenever you need them. Let's make sure those tools and fasteners stay as reliable as your family tradition of DIY!
FAQs
How do you organize a lot of drill bits?
There are many ways to organize your drill bits. A pegboard with labeled hooks or slots is a great way to keep small parts visible and easy to reach. A compartmented storage box or a wooden block with labeled slots is great for keeping smaller drill bits organized. Sort the drill bits based on their size, type (like wood, metal, or masonry), or length. Using clear containers or marking each section helps you easily locate the correct drill bit.
Where to keep drill bits?
It's important to keep drill bits in a dry, cool, and climate-controlled environment. This helps stop rust and corrosion from happening. Metal tool chests or plastic bins with tight lids are great for keeping drill bits organized. Make sure to keep the container in a place with good airflow and away from moisture or direct sunlight.
How do you keep drill bits organized?
To keep drill bits organized, sort them by size and type. Make sure to use containers that are easy to see into and have labels, or consider a tool organizer that has separate sections for everything
How do you store a power drill?
A power drill needs to be kept in a cool, dry place, like a tool chest, storage bin, or on a shelf mounted to the wall. When using a pegboard, make sure to hang the drill with a hook or a special drill holder so you can reach it easily. Make sure to store the drill in a secure and steady spot to prevent any damage or mess. It's a good idea to keep it standing up with the drill chuck pointing up to prevent any extra pressure on the motor or chuck.
Should I store a drill with the battery attached?
It's best to take out the battery from your power drill if you're going to store it for a long time. If you keep a drill with the battery still on it, the battery might run out of power eventually, and sometimes, it could even wear out more quickly. If you use the drill often, it's okay to keep the battery connected. However, for storing it for a long time, make sure to take the battery off and keep it in a cool, dry spot.
How do you maintain a corded drill?
Here are the steps to maintain a corded drill:
- Make sure the cord is not tangled and watch out for any harm to the plug.
- Make sure to look at the cord often to see if there are any frays or wires showing.
- Make sure the drill's ventilation slots are clean and free of debris.
- Make sure to put some lubricant on the chuck so it works well, and take a look at the brushes in the motor to see if they need replacing.
- Make sure to keep the drill in a dry and cool spot so it doesn't get rusty or corroded inside.
How do you make a screw holder?
To make a screw holder, begin by making small sections or dividers in a container or drawer to sort screws by size or type. A clever DIY idea is to use a plastic tackle box or small jars to keep your screws organized. If you want to try something a bit more challenging, you could make a wooden tray with different sections labeled or even a rotating storage rack to help keep your screws neat and easy to find.
How to categorize fasteners?
Categorize your fasteners by their type, size, material, or purpose.
- Type: Wood screws, drywall screws, sheet metal screws, etc.
- Size: Categorize screws by length and diameter.
- Use: Woodworking, masonry, general purpose, etc.
After sorting, put them in labeled bins, jars, or organizers so you can easily find the right fastener when you need it.
