How to Build a Large Toy Chest

Cut the 3/4-by-24-by-48-inch sheet of hardwood plywood into three rectangles each measuring 12 by 24 inches. Use these for the front, back and lid of the toy chest. The wood grain should run horizontally.

Cut two 12-by-12-inch squares from the plywood for the end pieces.

Crosscut the sheet of 3/8-inch plywood to a length of 23 1/2 inches. Cut the rectangle to 12 3/4 inches wide.

Set the fence on your table saw to 3/8 inch. Select a 3/8-inch dado blade to cut a slot 3/8 inch deep in the panels of the toy chest. Cut the dado grooves in the lower edge of the front, rear and side panels.

Set the bottom panel into the groove of the back panel to create the box portion of the toy chest.

Pre-drill and counter-sink four holes for 1 5/8-inch screws along the lower edge of the back panel penetrating through the bottom panel. Secure the panels with the wood screws.

Repeat the procedure to attach the side and front panels. Each of the side panels will be inset 3/4 inch to make the corners flush.

Pre-drill and counter-sink screws along each edge of the toy chest.

Attach the 1-by-3-by-24-inch board to the top edge of the back panel using four 1 5/8-inch wood screws. Pre-drill and counter-sink the screws.

Place the remaining 3/4-by-12-by-24-inch panel on top of the chest allowing it to overhang the front and side edges. Position hinges on the top to attach the lid. Mark hole locations with a pencil. Pre-drill holes for the hinge screws. Place hinges in position and set screws.

Attach a lid support. Position the support according to manufacturer's recommendations using four No. 6 screws.

Fill all screw holes with wood filler.

Sand the chest until smooth. Paint the chest to suit your room décor. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly before using.