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Toy Box Plans
A simple, sturdy toy chest that you can build in an afternoon. The lid sits on top and should be fitted with a lid stay that holds it open in any position, so it cannot fall on small fingers. Build it from plywood or MDF: a toy box in solid boards is heavier and can split.
- Default size
- 800 × 450 × 400 mm
- Parts
- 6 pieces · 4 sizes
- Sheets (2440 × 1220 mm (4 × 8 ft))
- 1 carcass
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Build time
- About 3 hours
- Edge band
- 5.6 m
Cut list (default size)
| Part | Qty | Length | Width | Thick. | Board | Edges |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Side | 2 | 432 | 400 | 18 | Carcass board 18 mm | |
| Front / back | 2 | 764 | 432 | 18 | Carcass board 18 mm | |
| Bottom | 1 | 764 | 364 | 18 | Carcass board 18 mm |
Sizes in millimetres; length runs along the grain. Edges: bold lines are banded.
1 more parts, the sheet layout and the cut order are in the full plan.Resize it to any size, print labels and save it in a project.Sign in free to open it
How it is built
- Fit a lid stay (soft-close support) that holds the lid open in any position.
- Never fit a latch or lock, and drill a few ventilation holes, or leave a 6 mm gap under the lid.
- Round all edges and corners before finishing.
Common mistakes
- Using ordinary hinges without a stay: the lid can slam on a child’s hands or head.
- Painting with a finish that is not safe for toys: use a toy-safe paint or varnish.
Tools you need
- Track saw or circular saw
- Drill/driver
- Sander
Frequently asked questions
What is the safest lid for a toy box?
A lid on a spring-loaded or friction lid stay that stays open in any position, or a lid that lifts off completely.
What size should a toy box be?
About 800 × 400 mm and 400–500 mm tall: big enough for toys, low enough for a small child to reach the bottom.
Which board and finish are best?
Plywood or MDF, sanded smooth with every edge rounded, and a paint or varnish labelled safe for toys.
