The carpenter's tote is an iconic symbol of an older, slower time when frugal people made their own furnishings. These simple "boxes-with-handles" were created out of necessity and practicality, and usually with whatever scraps were laying around. I built my first tote as a boatwright apprentice 25 years ago. While that first take was fairly hideous, I fell in love with the shape and possibilities of the thing. The totes I make now hearken back to that slower time, but are designed and made to be fine heirlooms that last generations.
This is an original design and a spin on a traditional tote used by a craftsperson. It is one-of-a kind and made to be used. I built it out of lightweight woods to make carrying it to the work site easier. These soft woods will take dents easily and are destined to display their well-used character as the tote ages. The pattern-grade white pine handle is removed by pulling the two pins that hold it, which allows the top tray box to be removed and expose the bottom tray’s tools.
The ends and bottoms of the box are Michigan white pine, while the sides are lovely reclaimed old-growth redwood decking. The sides are held with cut nails from the Tremont Nail Company, which still uses 19th century technology to make them.
The finish is a shop blend of polyurethane, boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits, as well as barn red milk paint.
The handle is wrapped with oiled matte black leather using waxed line.
The carpenter's tote is an iconic symbol of an older, slower time when frugal people made their own furnishings. These simple "boxes-with-handles" were created out of necessity and practicality, and usually with whatever scraps were laying around. I built my first tote as a boatwright apprentice 25 years ago. While that first take was fairly hideous, I fell in love with the shape and possibilities of the thing. The totes I make now hearken back to that slower time, but are designed and made to be fine heirlooms that last generations.
This is an original design and a spin on a traditional tote used by a craftsperson. It is one-of-a kind and made to be used. I built it out of lightweight woods to make carrying it to the work site easier. These soft woods will take dents easily and are destined to display their well-used character as the tote ages. The pattern-grade white pine handle is removed by pulling the two pins that hold it, which allows the top tray box to be removed and expose the bottom tray’s tools.
The ends and bottoms of the box are Michigan white pine, while the sides are lovely reclaimed old-growth redwood decking. The sides are held with cut nails from the Tremont Nail Company, which still uses 19th century technology to make them.
The finish is a shop blend of polyurethane, boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits, as well as barn red milk paint.
The handle is wrapped with oiled matte black leather using waxed line.
