Use one of these free toy box plans to build a gift for your child or grandchild that they'll cherish for years. It's a great way to add storage to a kid's room or playroom and the kids will love being able to organize all their toys.
Some of these plans make it super easy to build a toy chest, but others may be more difficult if you're a beginner builder. Be sure to look through each plan to see which one will work best for your skill level and the child's needs.
Each free toybox plan includes instructions, diagrams, photos, materials, tools, and even videos. All the plans are straightforward and easy to follow.
- 01 of 12
Simple Modern Toy Box with Lid
This is a simple toy box plan from Ana White that includes a hinged lid that's easy enough for the littlest kids to open. It's also slightly raised with feet. This classic design was inspired by a Land of Nod bunk bed and it would look great in any child's bedroom. You can keep it classic or add a monogram on the lid. Either way, it's a solid piece of furniture that your kid or grandkid can pass down for many generations.
A list of items you need for the toy box is included, as well as a list of tools, pictures with dimensions, and detailed building steps. There are also a ton of user images that are going to give you some great finishing and styling ideas.
- 02 of 12
DIY Toy Storage
Older kids need a little more organization than just a big toy box and this toy storage plan will get them a ton of different compartments to stash their stuff. There are nine bins so your child can keep everything in its place. This would also work very well for LEGO storage. This toy storage chest from Shanty 2 Chic holds Ikea's Trofast baskets or any other similar-sized bin. This makes it really easy for kids to take them in and out so they can only get out the toys they want to play with at the time. Add chalkboard labels to get the same look or smaller labels for a more streamlined look.
A supply list, color photos, written instructions, and diagrams will help you build this toy box in no time.
- 03 of 12
Toy Storage Console with Rolling Bins
Here's another toy storage plan from Kreg that's perfect for older kids. A shelf sits on top of three divided bins and then two large crates on the bottom. The crates are on wheels, so they can easily be moved in and out of the toy box. This means there's a place to keep both smaller and larger toys. Having closed, open, and displayed storage gives you so many options on where to keep everyone's favorite toy. The design makes it really easy for everyone to put their toys away.
As part of the free plans, you'll get how-to instructions, a tools list, a materials list, a parts/cut list, and extra tips and tricks. This is a moderate level build so you'll need a little bit of woodworking experience to build it.
- 04 of 12
Outdoor Toy Storage Chest
This huge toy box is built to hold a ton of outdoor toys, keeping them all together in one place. It's a great way to corral all those toys in the yard and deck. Place it anywhere in the yard, covered or not, and you'll keep all those toys nice and dry. You'll need just a couple of power tools to build this rustic-looking toy storage chest and it's perfect for the advanced builder. Finish it with some stain or leave it natural.
Continue to 5 of 12 below - 05 of 12
Pirate's Chest Toy Box
This plan from Chief's Shop can be used as a toy box for kids or as a storage chest for someone of any age. The instructions and images are contained in a PDF file and are so detailed at each step that it shouldn't at all be a problem to build. A list of all the tools, supplies, and lumber that you need are listed off to the side, as well as a comprehensive list and measurements of all the different parts that make up this toy box. Safety hinges are used to ensure the lid stays open and doesn't slam shut when it's being used.
- 06 of 12
Bookcase With Toy Storage
Kreg has a free toy box plan that combines toy storage with a bookcase. It's the perfect solution for keeping all those books and toys in the same place. Angled storage can be found below with a bookshelf up top. There's even a top shelf that can be used for a display. Everything is included in this free plan including a set of step-by-step building instructions, a tools list, a materials list, and parts/cut list, and lots of color photos and diagrams.
- 07 of 12
Simple Storage Box
Simple Storage Box is an easy guide to building a toy box from NutandBolt at Instructables. As you can see in the picture, this toy box plan accounts for handles on the sides as well as a lid. There are detailed pictures, instructions, videos, and a list of materials in this free toy box plan.
- 08 of 12
Lidless Toy Box
This open toy box plan is easy to follow and can be built by anyone. Jay's Custom Creations offer a video walkthrough you can watch for a visual idea of how this toy box is made, but there’s also a PDF file you can download, which includes a shopping list, color-coded illustrations, and step-by-step instructions.
Continue to 9 of 12 below - 09 of 12
DIY Wooden Toy Bins
This MerryThought project is simple but makes a sturdy set of three wooden toy bins that would work great not only in a child's room but also in a corner in a living room or kitchen. The three bins make it easy for kids to sort and organize their toys, games, or stuffed animals. It's a pretty straightforward project that lets you decide how big you want the bins to be before you build them.
- 10 of 12
Little Car Toy Box
More Like Home's free plan lays out very easy to follow, detailed instructions for building a cheap toy box that actually seats two small children. Images and measurements are given throughout the steps to make it really simple to build this toy box.
- 11 of 12
How to Build a Toy Chest
Here's a free toy box plan from This Old House that shouldn't take more than around 5 hours to complete. Plus, it includes wheels and handles to make it easy for kids to move around. The estimated cost and time to build the toy chest, as well as a shopping list, pictures, downloadable template, instructions, and list of tools needed are included in this plan.
- 12 of 12
How to Build a Chest Bench
This decorative storage chest from Rona—works well for a toy box, but its design also lets it be used as a bench. This is an easy plan for beginners, so it shouldn't take longer than one day to complete it. The details for Rona's chest-bench plan are in a PDF file. It includes all the tools and materials you'll need, along with cutting and assembly illustrations. It's measured at 60" x 20" x 21".