This project was built and designed by Billy from Newton Makes. It’s a flexible drawer storage solution that uses T-tracks, custom dividers, and modular bins to maximize space in any workshop cabinet.
Billy set out to solve a problem many woodworkers face—how to organize tools and supplies efficiently in a limited space. The result is a smart, customizable system that evolves with your needs and can be built using simple tools and materials.
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Solving the Workshop Clutter Problem
Tool drawers tend to get messy fast, and it’s tough to find a solution that works for every tool or fastener. Billy designed this tray to be durable, easy to assemble, and above all, adaptable.
Instead of locking yourself into fixed compartments, this design gives you control over layout, spacing, and organization. It’s built for the kind of shop where the tool lineup changes, and flexibility is key.
Starting with Durable Materials
MDF is the primary material for this build. It’s easy to work with, affordable, and ideal for drawer projects since it won’t warp and has a smooth surface.
Billy uses thicker MDF for the tray’s base to prevent sagging under the weight of tools. Thinner MDF is used for accessories like small bins and dividers, balancing strength with efficient use of material.
Building a Strong Base
The tray itself is assembled using rabbet joints for clean edges and strength. The rabbets allow the tray sides to interlock tightly, creating a square and stable structure.
Once glued and clamped, the tray forms a durable foundation for the T-track system and internal accessories. This structure can be scaled to fit most shop drawers, whether wide, deep, or shallow.
Integrating T-Track for Flexibility
Aluminum T-track is added to the bottom of the tray, allowing for sliding dividers that can be repositioned as needed. This eliminates the frustration of fixed compartments and makes it easy to reorganize as tools change.
The T-track is cut to length and secured into dados in the base. Installation is straightforward and immediately adds versatility to the setup, especially when paired with the custom dividers Billy designs next.
Making Adjustable Dividers
Dividers are cut with rabbets on each end, allowing them to sit flush and securely on the T-track. Bolts and hex nuts are used to secure them in place, and countersinking keeps the bolt heads below the surface for a clean finish.
This design lets you move dividers or remove them entirely as needed. It’s especially helpful in drawers where tool sizes vary, and standard organizers don’t fit the bill.
Adding Corner Brackets for Stability
To prevent shifting and improve weight distribution, Billy creates small L-shaped brackets that fit into the tray corners. These brackets are simple to make with a table saw and help support any added weight above the dividers.
Double-sided tape helps with accurate assembly, and once installed, the brackets add noticeable stability to the system.
Creating Modular Storage Containers
Small bins are built using thinner MDF and assembled with simple rabbets and glue. These containers are perfect for holding fasteners, bits, or small tools, and they can be moved around the tray as needed.
Because they’re lightweight and don’t require screws or hardware, they’re easy to make in batches. Billy’s modular approach gives you the option to change the layout anytime without starting over.
Using Vertical Space Efficiently
A key feature of the tray is a removable shelf that rests across the top. It spans the full width of the drawer and can be lifted out easily to access items below.
The shelf sits on top of the dividers and L-brackets, providing a second layer of organization without cluttering the base of the drawer. It’s especially useful for stacking less-used tools below and keeping daily-use items within reach.
Side Compartment System
To make the most of the tray’s side area, Billy adds notched dividers that slide into grooves cut along the drawer’s edge. Small MDF panels with tongues fit into these notches, creating mini compartments that can be resized on the fly.
This clever addition makes the drawer even more customizable and provides a place to store awkward or narrow tools that don’t fit well elsewhere.
A Better Way to Organize Your Drawer Space
Billy’s project is a great example of designing with real shop needs in mind. Instead of a one-size-fits-all insert, he created a flexible system that evolves with the user.
The tray, dividers, shelf, and bins all work together to create a highly functional drawer layout. Whether you’re storing hand tools, measuring equipment, or miscellaneous hardware, this solution keeps everything organized and easy to access.
Please support Billy by visiting his website here: https://www.newtonmakes.com/shop.