Tool organization...

[geneb]

In the process of cleaning up the mess I made of my 'bot last week, I wanted to build some kind of organizer for the various cutters I've got.

What kind of methods are common among 'botters for doing this?

g.

[Gary Campbell]

Gene...
I used a center section toolbox. Paperstone organizer for used bits on the top. PVC dividers for collets & nuts. Bins for unused bits in center. Bottom drawer (not shown) has tools, probe clamps etc.

[knight_toolworks]

drill a bunch of holes (G)
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s266/knighttoolworks/photo3-9.jpg
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s266/knighttoolworks/photo2-13.jpg
http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s266/knighttoolworks/photo1-13.jpg

[beacon14]

First pic is from a bank of drawers that serves my router table and dates way back to pre-ShopBot days (yes I drilled all those holes on a drill press - and that is one of three similar drawers). 2nd pic is my current setup for CNC bits - although it's now maxed out and in need of expansion. Of course the SB drilled all the holes in the 2nd pic.

Make the holes a tad larger than the shank diameter to save yourself some grief and maybe some sliced up fingers.

[michael_schwartz]

and I thought my collection of bits (2 dozen) or so was big

[geneb]

Fantastic pics guys, thanks!

I like the drawer idea - I could build a custom drawer box that would fit on the lower shelf of the roll-around workstation I built.

tnx!

g.

[Gary Campbell]

Michael...
Bits are much cheaper to buy by the dozen. Its also easier to toss them when dull if you have a backup or two. :)

[michael_schwartz]

There are a few items that always seem to live on my spoil board.

The items in question are the 2-3 bits I am using for a given file, second collet insert, and a few drill/screwdriver bits for screws used for hold down.

So I made this today from a piece of UHMW from the scrap bin, and attached it to the side rail with a T nut.

If I am haphazardly loading sheet goods, I can take the screwdriver bits out and swing it around so its out of the way.

Next thing to work on will be a place for wrenches.

I will share pictures of how I store my bits when I get around to building a new cabinet. My current setup is the usual piece MDF with lots of holes.