Router Bit Storage on French Cleats

So I have been slowly accumulating router bits in a drawer and decided it was time to get organized so I can see everything I have. I made this storage rack using french cleats to match my storage wall and used nothing but scrap wood (plywood and 1x4s). I did use some random screws, my brad nailer, and some wood glue.

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Titebond Wood Glue

Kobalt Compound Miter Saw (10 inch) I haven't been able to find the same version that I have, so I recommend the Dewalt 10-inch as I have had pretty good luck with Dewalt tools, but here is a link to some affordable 10-inch options at Home Depot.

Ryobi also makes an affordable option

Dewalt Table Saw

Router Bits

Drill Bits

Ryobi Drill/Driver Combinations

These all include the 1/2 chuck as recommended If you want to check out other manufacturers such as Dewalt, Milwuakee, and Rigid, please check them out through my link to Home Depot.

Here are some Random Orbital Sanders (I use Dewalt, but I’m sure some of the Ryobi options are more affordable if you want to stick to a reasonably priced brand)

1 1/4th inch Spax Construction Screws

Ryobi Nailer

Using some scrap 1x4, we cut a 45 degree angle through the middle of the board for use as the mounting cleat.

We used a level and some 1 1/4th inch Spax Construction Screws and our Ryobi Drill.

We set out by developing a grid across our board and then organized all our router bits to make sure we had enough spots and a few for potential new pieces we acquire in the future.

We use the table saw to cut a 45 degree angle cut across the top of the storage board.

We drilled 1/4th inch and 1/2 inch holes to match our organizational needs then sanded both sides. Be sure to drill them a little loose (oversized) so that the bits slide in and out easily.

We also cut a 45 degree angle to the bottom of the storage board.

We have a handful of collet reducers for using 1/4th inch bits in a 1/2 inch collet router. Since they have no shape that would hold them in the slot, we added a stop block using some scrap wood and screws.

Trim the top cleat to the width of the storage board and attach it using wood glue and the brad nailer.

Measure the depth of the unit as it's mounted loosely on the wall cleat and cut out at least two support braces

Using wood glue and the brad nailer, attach the support braces to the bottom of the board, flush at the 45 degree cut.

Just hang it up on the cleat and you're good to go.