My first attempt at making a Japanese style toolbox. Only thing’s I did different was to use handcut dowels using my Veritas dowel jig. And I omitted the diagonal support bar that runs between the handles. Couldn’t see a reason for it…and I didn’t like the way it looked.
Used dimensional lumber, but used a dozuki pull saw for all the cut’s. Used and old school blockplane that I purchased of eBay for 5 bucks, and spent a few days restoring it.
3 coats of varathane…when it wasn’t raining. Three things I learned..
1. Never trust the edge on dimentional lumber,
2. Always have the right drill bit, this will prevent blowouts,
3. Never glue then try to drill the same piece until it’s dry. Pilot holes first then glue…duh…i’m such an idiot some times..lol
7 comments so far
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#1 posted 1073 days ago
You did a fine job with the toolbox, kokaneesailor. It’s actually more polished and “finished” than the real Japanese ones!
The diagonal brace you omitted makes sense when you realize that the lid on these toolboxes is oftentimes made out of several boards. In your case, being a single narrow board, you don’t really need it for strength.
I liked to read you saying you’ve learned a few things while making the box. This is the smart frame of mind in my opinion. One can be taught even from the simplest things. Some people seem to think that you can only learn if you try to tackle a humongous project that’s well over your head.
Keep up the good work and, please, share it with us.
a1Jim
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#2 posted 1073 days ago
Interesting build well done
-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/
Skylark53
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#3 posted 1073 days ago
Real nice job on the tool box.
-- Rick, Tennessee, John 3:16
HoBoMoNK
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#4 posted 1073 days ago
This is an interesting Westernization of a Japanese traditional shokunin toolbox.
The diagonal brace is used to keep the top from twisting, especially when multiple boards are used.
Ichi ban!
-- 温故知新
Div
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#5 posted 1072 days ago
Like your box! Welcome to LJ’s.
-- Div @ the bottom end of Africa. "A woodworker's sharpest tool should be his mind."
kokaneesailor
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#6 posted 1066 days ago
Wasn’t sure how to post responses on this board..lol..Thanks for all the comments people. Thanks Jojo,Jim, Skylark53,hobomonk and Div. Off to learning how to build the Rumford fireplace on Gabriola Island. Cheers ..Robert
Jiri Parkman
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#7 posted 700 days ago
Beautiful.
-- Jiri
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