The famous North Bennet Street School toolbox

At North Bennet Street School, the toolbox is a sort of “right of passage” that every student through the program builds in their second semester. While complete creative freedom is not allowed, the ability to choose the wood, finish, and size of the drawers is allowed.

Built from solid cherry with soft maple secondary wood, this toolbox is rooted in both craftsmanship and history. The material itself carries meaning; the lumber was given to me by my grandfather and milled by him, making this piece as much about where it comes from as how it’s built.

It features over 70 hand-cut dovetails along with mortise and tenon joinery throughout, all done with a focus on strength and precision. The handles and frame-and-panel door are made from spalted soft maple, adding contrast and character against the cherry.

Measuring 27 × 16 × 20 inches, the toolbox is finished with hand-applied super blonde shellac, bringing out the warmth and depth of the wood while keeping a natural feel.