Tool Organizer

By Jan Mundy

This tool organizer is an adaptation of one on the Gozzard 44 sailboat built by North Castle Marine. It installs under the lid of a cockpit locker, giving quick access to frequently used tools.

This one measures 11" wide by 20" long (28cm x 50cm) and holds two winch handles, a bilge pump handle and flashlight, but it can be easily customized to hold any tool assortment. It’s made of 1/2" (12mm) King StarBoard; you’ll also need four #8 fasteners of suitable length, a stainless-steel eye strap, 1/8" (3mm) shock cord and a hook. Total materials cost is about $20.

Work from the wrong side — King StarBoard is soft and any slip of the file or other tool will gouge the surface.

To start, measure the cockpit locker, allowing for any obstructions, then make a pattern. Trace the outline of each tool on the pattern, adding an extra 1/8" (3mm) on all sides. Transfer the pattern to the wrong side of the King StarBoard. To make the cutouts for the tools, first drill 3/8" (9mm) holes in the corners, inside your traced outline, then “connect the holes” with a jigsaw.

Now, cut out the finished piece. Turn it over and finish all edges with a 1/2-round carbide bit. Drill and countersink for fasteners in all four corners. Drill holes for the eye strap and shock cord.

To make cutouts, first drill 3/8" (9mm) holes in the corners, inside your traced outline, then “connect the holes” with a jigsaw.

This last step takes a bit of planning; you may have to drill more holes for additional shock cord support after installing your tools. Remove the raised drill edge, then sand all edges smooth. Tie a slip knot in one end of the shock cord then thread the cord through the holes; leave a little extra for adjustment later.

Now, install your tool organizer on the locker lid with screws fastened with a dab of sealant. A nut slipped on the screw between the King StarBoard and the lid acts as a spacer so you can easily adjust the shock cord. Beginning where the shock cord is tied off, install each tool and pull the cord tight. Adjust to fit, cut the cord, and attach a hook.

To make cutouts, first drill 3/8" (9mm) holes in the corners, inside your traced outline, then “connect the holes” with a jigsaw.

This article appears on the MRT Series “Building with Starboard” CD-ROM. This CD includes 22 Projects & Fabrication Techniques. The ideal choice for replacing wood components on board. Will not delaminate, rot or splinter and requires no paint. StarBoard is easy to cut, rout, shape and drill with basic woodworking tools. Projects include boarding step, bow anchor roller, chart rack, chopping board, fishing rod rack, folding jump seat, half swim platform, hatch board cover seat, propane tank holder, pulpit seat, shower grate, stern rail seat, tool organizer, towel rack, and more.