This project was built and designed by Billy from Newton Makes.
Inspired by the crates seen in the 2008 Iron Man movie, this rugged wooden storage box brings function and style to any workshop or garage.
It’s a simple, budget-friendly project that uses common pine and 2x4s to recreate the look of vintage military ammo boxes.
The result is a versatile storage solution with a bold, handmade feel and plenty of personality.
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A Practical Project with Character
These ammo boxes serve as more than just storage—they also make great conversation pieces or themed decor.
Whether you’re looking to organize your tools, tidy up a kid’s room, or even make a unique coffee table, this project offers plenty of options.
Billy leans into the natural imperfections of pine for this build. Knots, grain variation, and rougher textures all help contribute to the final look, adding a layer of authenticity to the crate’s vintage feel.
Cutting and Preparing the Wood
The body of the box is made from standard pine boards, cut to size for the front, back, sides, and bottom.
These pieces are trimmed to length and lightly cleaned up, but there’s no need for high-end finish work—this project embraces a more rustic, utilitarian appearance.
The corners are reinforced with posts made from 2x4s, which are cut down to fit the crate size.
These corner pieces provide structure and stability, allowing the box to carry a decent amount of weight once assembled.
Assembly and Construction
With all the pieces prepped, Billy clamps everything together to ensure flush edges before attaching the panels.
He uses nails for assembly, in line with traditional crate construction methods.
To strengthen the joints, nails are driven in from multiple directions—into the sides, bottom, and corners.
This method locks everything together and gives the box that solid, overbuilt feel typical of military gear.
Adding Rope Handles for Function and Style
Each side of the crate features a rope handle, giving the box a classic, portable design. Holes are drilled through the side panels, and shallow grooves are carved into the posts to allow the rope to sit snugly and flat against the surface.
This detail not only makes the box easier to carry but also reinforces the military look. The contrast between the rough wood and the natural rope adds a nice touch of texture.
Hardware for a Military Look
To complete the exterior, Billy installs reproduction-style hardware sourced online.
This includes latches and hinges that give the box a more finished, rugged appearance.
Some minor adjustments are required to get the hardware to fit properly, but these final touches go a long way in completing the visual theme. The result looks like it came straight from a movie set—or an old supply depot.
Bonus Feature: Internal Tray
Inside the crate, Billy adds a removable tray to increase storage versatility. It’s built from leftover materials and designed to resemble a scaled-down version of the larger box.
This inner tray is great for organizing smaller tools, accessories, or gear. It rests on interior ledges and can be removed as needed, keeping the main compartment open and accessible.
Custom Stenciling for a Unique Finish
One of the standout features of this build is the custom stencil used to replicate the Stark Industries logo.
Billy scores the design into paper and applies it using painter’s tape for clean, crisp lines.
This extra detail transforms the crate from a basic storage box into a piece of themed decor. It also shows how small creative touches can add personality and polish to a straightforward build.
Final Assembly and Use
With all the hardware in place, handles attached, and stencil applied, the project comes together as a fully functional storage box. It’s sized generously and designed to hold everything from tools to keepsakes.
The crate is both rugged and flexible, able to serve in the garage, shop, office, or even as a decorative piece in the home.
Its durability and charm make it a great conversation starter—or a handy addition to a storage system.
A Build That Delivers More Than Storage
What makes this project shine is how it blends function, storytelling, and simple woodworking.
It’s easy to modify for different sizes or uses, and the process doesn’t require advanced tools or joinery.
Billy’s approach keeps the build approachable while delivering a satisfying finished product.
Whether you’re a fan of Iron Man or just want a tough, good-looking storage solution, this is a project worth tackling.
Please support Billy by visiting his website here: https://www.newtonmakes.com/shop.