We already know what'll happen once you get a TT. You'll want to climb on it. While it's a here-to-stay project, it's not a step stool. Use ladders for climbing. But just in case: To add more stability to your TT, cut some cool feet out of 1-by. Add a scroll detail with the jigsaw. It'll be a little trickier negotiating the hallway with feet sticking out (we'd go at least 6 inches on each side), but much harder to tip the thing over.If you have a pipe-cutting project, screw blocks to the bench top to nest the pipe to make cutting easier. Set a nail or screw on the inside, and hook the ring of a notebook on it for writing lists or making sketches — you know you'll need a few things at the home center. Fasten a power strip to one side, preferably near the bottom; you'll always know where the plugs are.
Have fun with your Tote-ally cool tool tote. Stick it in the corner of a room and watch it gather tools and DIY gear like a light gathers moths in the summer. And be happy — rather than have all the this-and-that required for home improvement scattered to the four corners of your project room, you can plop it all in one easy-to-reach place. Along with your coffee.
Mark Clement is a remodeler and author of The Carpenter's Notebook and The Kid's Carpenter's Workbook, Fun Family Projects! Find out more at
www.TheCarpentersNotebook.com.
Theresa Coleman is a freelance writer and editor who specializes in residential construction and DIY topics. She is the author of Do-It-Yourself Home Improvement, Black & Decker Complete Guide to Shelves & Built-Ins and the Build It! card game.
