This project was built and designed by Billy from Newton Makes.
It’s a modular cabinet system created to organize small hardware like screws, nails, and bolts—combining hardwood joinery with smart, customizable mounting.
Cluttered hardware boxes are a challenge for nearly every workshop. Billy tackled the problem with a clean, stackable system that uses plastic storage containers housed in hardwood cabinets.
The result is a tidy, durable setup that adapts easily to changing shop layouts.
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Why Better Storage Matters in the Shop
Most workshops accumulate hardware over time—boxes of fasteners, nails, bolts, and other small parts that tend to pile up on benches or disappear into shelves.
Billy’s goal was to bring order to that chaos with a cabinet system designed to fit standard one-pound hardware boxes.
The cabinets can sit on a countertop, be stacked securely, or mounted on the wall. Everything is modular, so as your storage needs grow or shift, the system can evolve too.
Choosing the Right Materials
Rather than plywood or MDF, Billy used white oak that he milled himself from scrap logs. This choice adds both durability and a premium look to the project.
Once milled, the boards were cut to final width and flattened to prepare for assembly. White oak provides long-lasting strength and helps elevate the overall quality of the cabinets.
Simple, Reliable Joinery
Each cabinet consists of a top, bottom, two sides, and several interior shelves. Dados are cut into the side panels to house the shelves and keep them locked in position.
A groove is routed near the back edge of each side panel to hold a back panel flush. This adds rigidity to the frame and keeps dust out—important when dealing with small hardware.
The joinery is straightforward, but strong. Everything is cut to fit snugly, and the shelves align perfectly with the cabinet faces for a clean, professional look.
Creative Mounting Solutions
One of the more unique features in Billy’s build is the use of dartboard mounting brackets to secure the cabinets to each other and the wall.
These metal brackets allow for easy removal or rearrangement while keeping everything locked tightly together.
Cabinets can be stacked or mounted individually using a French cleat system integrated into the back.
For stability, small custom feet are added to keep the cabinets slightly elevated and prevent scratches on work surfaces.
This system offers flexibility and keeps your shop setup adaptable without permanent fixtures.
Smart Storage Inside
The interior of each cabinet is designed to fit plastic storage bins that perfectly hold standard boxes of screws or nails.
These bins feature clear, lockable lids—keeping contents visible, organized, and safe from spills.
Combining hardwood cabinetry with practical plastic bins results in the best of both worlds. You get the warmth and strength of wood, with the convenience and versatility of lightweight containers.
Built for Adaptability
While Billy used dartboard mounts and specific bin sizes, the real power of this design lies in its flexibility.
You can tweak the layout, joinery, or mounting system to fit your own workflow or shop layout.
Other builders might prefer dovetail joints or T-track systems for more adjustability. The cabinets could also be modified with drawer fronts or different bin styles depending on your storage needs.
Benefits of the Design
This storage project solves multiple problems at once:
- It clears clutter by creating designated space for small parts.
- It saves floor and bench space by allowing wall-mounting or stacking.
- It improves workflow by keeping hardware visible and easy to access.
- It holds up to long-term use thanks to strong joinery and hardwood construction.
Each unit can stand alone or work as part of a larger system, giving you full control over how your storage grows.
Getting Started on Your Own Version
If you’re inspired to build something similar, here are the general steps Billy followed:
- Mill or cut boards to width and thickness.
- Cut dados for shelf placement and grooves for the back panel.
- Assemble the cabinet box and install interior shelves.
- Choose a mounting system—French cleats, interlocking brackets, or feet.
- Source plastic bins that fit your preferred hardware packaging.
- Stack or mount the cabinets as needed.
Even if you don’t replicate the exact design, these ideas can help you develop your own customized storage system for small parts.
A Long-Term Upgrade for Any Workshop
Billy’s modular cabinets are a great example of thoughtful workshop design.
They solve real problems, use solid materials, and look good while doing it.
More importantly, they’re scalable—meaning you can start with one or two and add more as your shop needs grow.
This type of system is ideal for anyone tired of digging through random hardware bins or dealing with makeshift storage.
Please support Billy by visiting his website here: https://www.newtonmakes.com/shop.