URL:
https://www.woodsmith.com/article/drill-bit-storage-solution/
Share Page:

DIY Drill Bit Storage Rack — Swing-Out Magnetic Holder

By: Woodsmith staff
Keep drill bits organized and within reach with this swing-out magnetic storage rack that uses both sides of a magnetic tool bar.

DIY Drill Bit Storage Rack with Swing-Out Magnetic Holder

Keeping drill bits organized and close to your drill press makes woodworking more convenient. A magnetic tool bar is a simple storage solution, but mounting one directly to the wall leaves half of its usable surface inaccessible.

This shop-made drill bit storage rack solves that problem with a swing-out wooden arm. The design allows you to store drill bits and other suitable metal accessories on both sides of the magnetic bar while taking up very little wall space.

Best of all, you can build the rack from a few small pieces of scrap wood and basic hardware.

Make the Most of Magnetic Tool Storage

Magnetic tool holders are convenient for keeping frequently used drill bits, drivers, and other steel accessories visible and easy to reach.

However, when a magnetic bar is mounted flat against the wall, only the front surface is available for storage.

By attaching the bar to a pivoting wooden arm, you can swing the rack away from the wall and access tools on both sides.

The compact design is especially useful in small woodworking shops where wall space is limited.

Build a Simple Swing-Out Storage Arm

The rack consists of three basic wooden components:

  • Mounting block: Attaches the assembly to the workshop wall.
  • Notched hinge block: Provides the pivoting connection.
  • Swing-out arm: Supports the magnetic tool bar.

Short lengths of dowel connect the hinge block and arm, creating a simple pivoting mechanism.

The design doesn't require complicated joinery or much material, making it a good project for using up hardwood scraps.

Add the Magnetic Bar and Mount the Rack

Once the wooden arm is assembled, attach the magnetic tool bar along its bottom edge.

Secure the mounting block to a suitable wall support, leaving enough clearance for the arm to swing freely and for tools to be removed from either side.

Positioning the rack beside your drill press keeps frequently used bits within easy reach. It's also a convenient place to organize driver bits and other small steel tools that the magnet can hold securely.

A Space-Saving Upgrade for Your Workshop

This simple DIY drill bit holder makes better use of a common workshop accessory.

The swing-out arm provides access to both sides of the magnetic bar, while the wall-mounted design keeps tools organized without taking up valuable bench space.

With just a few scraps of wood and a magnetic tool holder, you can create a practical storage rack that's easy to customize for your own shop.


More Shop Storage & Organization Tips

Palm Router Storage Shelf

Make the most of your workshop space with clever tool holders, space-saving storage racks, and practical organization ideas. Discover simple shop-made solutions that keep your tools accessible and your workbench clutter-free.

READ MORE → Explore More Shop Storage & Organization Tips

Published: June 13, 2013
Share Page:
Topics: organization & storage, quick shop tips

Product Recommendations

Here are some supplies and tools we find essential in our everyday work around the shop. We may receive a commission from sales referred by our links; however, we have carefully selected these products for their usefulness and quality.

Topics

  • organization & storage
  • quick shop tips

Related Articles