Bit Holder for Drill

I recently had to replace an old cordless drill, and was surprised that most new ones don't come with a bit holder to hold a double ended screwdriver bit. I played with several ideas for adding a holder to my new drill, and came up with one that works well.

Supplies used:

• a double ended screwdriver bit
• small piece of scrap leather
• thread and sewing awl
• small piece of scrap copper (any metal will do)
• white glue

Tools used:

• drill & bit
• clamp
• a couple of pieces of scrap wood
• screwdriver

The drill I purchased came with an attachment that would allow the drill to hang on a belt. This was basically a small metal bracket and a screw. I had no desire to hang a heavy drill on my belt (would probably pull my pants down), but having the opportunity to attach something using the threaded screw hole caught my attention. I would use this hole and screw to mount the bit holder.

The bit holder consists of a small piece of leather wet molded around the screwdriver bit. I wet the leather, folded it around the screwdriver bit (leaving a bit extra for mounting), then clamped it between two pieces of scrap wood until it was dry. You will want to have the leather wrapped tightly around the bit, since it will be held in place by friction.

Once dry, I glued the front & back flaps together, trimmed them, punched holes for sewing, and then punched a hole for the screw that would mount this to the drill.

Next I made a couple of mounting plates from some scrap copper I had. I made the plates the same width and height as the leather flaps, making sure I rounded the corners for safety. I then drilled a hole in the center of each plate. The second photo shows how this mounting "sandwich" goes together.

The final step is to screw the new screwdriver bit holder to the new drill. I find it very convenient knowing that I always have a double ended screwdriver bit attached to the drill. Shame on drill manufacturers for discontinuing these holders on their new drills. But, this takes care of it!