Inexpensive Tool Organization Ideas

Teaching window restoration is a funny business. Just when I feel like I’m making strides toward reaching my entire audience, I start getting questions that remind me that it’s time to start all over. That’s because new readers are jumping in all the time. Recently, I asked a question on Instagram. In essence, the question asked about pain points during projects, specifically window restoration. Out of sixty-four responses, there were several variations of How do I set up a small workstation, and How can I fit this work into my busy life? These inexpensive tool organization ideas answer both.

A few years ago, I created a bin system in the basement. Granted, I have plenty of room to spread out in my basement, and most people want to know how to set up a small area. So, I’ve adapted the method for today’s post. Although I’ll be referencing window restoration tasks, this method for organizing tools and supplies can be applied broadly.

Round Up Your Tools & Supplies

The first step is to round up all of your tools and supplies. Sometimes, that is easier said than done, especially if you live with someone who uses the tools too.

I’m a big fan of separating tools by purpose vs. grouping all of the screwdrivers together or having a fancy pegboard with perfectly spaced and color-coordinated items. Pinterest-perfect is an unattainable goal for most, so I always strive for organized-ish. Newly minted DIYers may have a limited amount of tools, and keeping them all together in something like a five-gallon bucket organizer may work well.

Bucket organizers are great because a bucket is easy to carry from project to project, and it can be stashed in a corner somewhere. The downside is that much like a large purse, the bucket organizer can become a dumping ground rather than a helpful tool.

Once you reach the dumping stage, separating tools by purpose will be a lifesaver.

Multiple Bin Organization

I use clear plastic shoe boxes and white dish tubs. An open bin is of the best inexpensive tool organization ideas you can implement. Remember that question about fitting projects into a busy life? When everything you need is already in one bin, it is easy to grab it and sneak in a few minutes of project time here and there.

When project time is so limited, many of us get hung up on the effort it takes to find the necessary tools and supplies. That problem is solved with the multiple bin system.

The Single Bin Grab-and-Go

If you don’t have enough room for a bunch of bins, you may want to create broader categories. For instance, you could keep all your window restoration supplies in one place and gather what you need into a larger plastic dish tub.

Pro Tip: Use a strong magnet in a smaller container to gather screws and drillbits. They will stick to the magnet instead of getting lost.

To Label or Not to Label?

Pinterest and Instagram would have us believe that labeling is the only way. If you love how labels look and make you happy, go for it. However, if they are of no use to you, don’t rush out to buy a label maker. Being organized is about being able to find what you need right away, not visual perfection.

We use labels in our house because sharing tools with someone can be challenging. Labeled bins create a designated and permanent home base for tools. When everyone agrees about where the tools live, it’s easier to put them away in the right spot.

I can’t give you time or make your house larger, but these inexpensive tool organization ideas may help you make the most of what you’ve got.

1. Five-gallon bucket organizer
2. Clear plastic shoeboxes
3. Plastic dish tub
4. Label maker – The adhesive in this style of label maker sticks better to plastic than thermal tape.

If you have any questions or need more ideas, please let me know in the comments.

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