This project was built and designed by Caleb from YouCanMakeThisToo. It’s a fully customized wall-mounted hand tool storage system built from hardwoods, designed to replace clutter with function and style.
The result is a clean, personalized storage solution that not only makes tools easier to access but also elevates the look and feel of the shop. It’s a practical, hands-on project that shows how woodworking can solve everyday frustrations.
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Why the Tool Wall Was Needed
Like many woodworkers, Caleb found himself constantly shifting tools around his bench. The lack of an organized storage system made every project slower and more frustrating.
Instead of buying a pre-built rack or making temporary fixes, he committed to a full wall-mounted solution. The idea was to store every commonly used hand tool in a way that was visible, accessible, and protected—all while creating a feature piece for the shop.
Thoughtful Planning for Practical Use
The project began with careful planning. Caleb mapped out the wall layout, taking inventory of his most-used hand tools and deciding how to group them.
Every holder was designed with specific use cases in mind, allowing him to maximize space and minimize motion during typical tasks. It wasn’t just about storage—it was about creating an efficient workflow.
Choosing Hardwoods for Strength and Beauty
Caleb built the tool wall using walnut for the frame and maple for the accents. The hardwoods offer durability and resist wear from constant tool use.
The walnut and maple pairing also provides a high-contrast, clean look that stands out in the workshop. Beyond functionality, the wall becomes a visual focal point and a reflection of his woodworking style.
Designing Custom Tool Holders
To get started, Caleb focused on storing his hand saws. Since saws tend to tip backward due to the weight of the spine, he designed holders that account for that bias, ensuring the tools stay balanced and don’t slide out.
For smaller tools like card scrapers, he cut angled slots into a board using a miter saw set to a shallow depth. This allowed him to insert and remove the scrapers easily while keeping them secure. These small touches highlight how shop projects often require subtle adjustments to match real-world tool use.
Building Storage for Planes and Other Tools
Larger tools like hand planes needed a more robust solution. Caleb initially considered using leather straps but found they didn’t offer enough support. He ended up designing dedicated angled cradles that support the body of each plane while keeping them tilted for easier access.
These decisions were made on the fly as the build progressed. Caleb experimented with different holding methods and adjusted as needed, showing how even a long-term project benefits from flexibility.
Learning as You Build
Over the course of the build, Caleb tested out several clamping setups, including panel clamps, to improve the stability of his glue-ups. These adjustments helped him fine-tune his approach to building future shop fixtures.
He also reminded viewers that some tools—like bevel stops on a miter saw—are often overlooked but can be used in clever ways, like cutting angled slots or quick layout lines. The project became not just a storage solution but a learning experience in itself.
Finishing the Tool Wall
With all the holders in place, Caleb applied a protective finish that brings out the color and grain of the hardwoods. The finish adds durability while making the wall a visual centerpiece.
Unlike more temporary storage solutions, this tool wall is built to last. The final result is both beautiful and highly functional, transforming a chaotic area of the shop into a source of pride and efficiency.
Lessons from a Year-Long Build
Although the project took over a year to complete, much of that was due to adjusting the design and learning through the process. Caleb admits to a bit of procrastination but also emphasizes the benefit of letting the project evolve.
The final tool wall reflects his growth as a woodworker, combining utility with craftsmanship. It’s a project that’s as rewarding to finish as it is to use every day.
Alternatives for Faster Solutions
If a year-long build isn’t practical, Caleb recommends looking into wall control systems. These ready-made solutions offer flexibility and function without the time investment, though they may not provide the same level of customization.
It all depends on your goals—if you want a quick fix, wall panels and racks work well. But if you want something uniquely tailored to your workflow, a custom tool wall like Caleb’s is worth the effort.
Please support Caleb by visiting his website: https://www.ycmt2.com/.