Stanley SortMaster Bins: DIY Shelf Build Lessons
Small parts pile up fast, and ad-hoc boxes get messy. I needed a consistent system after repurposing my Milwaukee Packout drawers for tools and camera gear.
What you’ll get: a quick look at Stanley SortMaster bins and practical tips for building a snug plywood shelf with pocket hole joinery—plus a few gotchas.
Tools & Materials
Why the SortMaster works in a garage
These bins are a solid fit for small items that won’t leave the shop. They’re not the toughest option for job sites, but they shine for stationary storage. A consistent footprint lets you build a dedicated shelf once and expand later if you find more.
Plan your shelf before you cut
Start from the bin’s outer dimensions (14-3/4 x 11-1/2 x 2-2/3) and add clearance for dividers and hand access. Dry-fit with scrap to confirm spacing and total stack height. If you’re tight on space, design for exactly how many bins you have so you don’t waste an inch.
Pocket holes: fast, until they’re not
Pocket hole screws are great for frames, but think ahead about driver access. If the compartments are narrow, you may not fit a drill for the last screws. Pre-drill, stage clamps, and test one bay before committing to the full grid. Keep a ratcheting screwdriver handy for tight angles when the drill won’t fit.
Angle clamps help—but budget time
90° angle clamps can improve accuracy, especially when your sheet goods aren’t perfectly cut. The tradeoff is setup time. Clamp, check square, then drive. If you’re solo, expect to use “all the clamps you have” to make up for a lack of extra hands.
When a dado would save the day
For repeatable shelves, dados let panels slide into place, then glue and brad nails finish the job. Pocket holes can work, but they’re less forgiving once cavities block driver access. If dados aren’t an option, consider building modular sections you can assemble outside the carcass and then join.
Final takeaway: SortMaster bins make budget-friendly, consistent shop storage. Build the shelf around the bins, plan driver access, and consider dados next time to save an hour—and your patience.
