Easy DIY Socket Organizer

If you use socket wrenches, keeping them organized and easily available, in the tool box and at the work site, is a bit of a nuisance. There are organizers you can buy online, but they all have their issues, whether its expense, quality, or adaptability to the tools and workspace YOU have and use. So here is my solution that utilizes magnets and scrap wood or plywood. You can tweak this idea to work perfectly for the tools you have, and the way you want to use/organize them. There are a couple links below to the products I used to create these. Its an easy DIY build that requires very little skill level, yet delivers excellent utility and function for a socket organizer, or various other tools like torque and allen bits.
Disc Magnets amzn.to/32zAnfT
Cup Magnets amzn.to/3jj6Nlw
Bar Magnets amzn.to/3gMP5oY
Labels (10 pack) amzn.to/2QAG5Zh
Labels (econ) amzn.to/31FTnKw

[@armadilllo]

You could have left out the 10mm since they always disappear anyway.

[@Rick-the-Swift]

❤

[@UnReil39]

Hahahahaha

[@michaelflanagan583]

Freaking AWESOME! I'm going to make these this weekend!

[@huffster6344]

This is very similar to how we organize tools at work using the 5S system. The only difference is that all of the holes would be brightly colored (painted). That allows you to see that something is missing. Nice work.

[@Westcoastjazzer]

No one knows what it's like to be an OCD guy that has a million sockets on those metal tracks! I'm going to do what you have shown us and must thank you for the fantastic idea! I love organization and this solves the problems of having so many tools.

[@michaelherold181]

I have 8mm - 50mm and I'm having a difficult time finding an all in one deal. So I appreciate the idea.

[@howiescott5865]

Every socket organizer or socket organizer idea I've seen in the past I either hate or simply dislike. This one I reeeally like. Simple but awesome. With magnets on the bottom of the organizer, you can mount that anywhere, even upside down. Verrry convenient when you're underneath on a creeper. You get the genius award for this one. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@SamFortino-uv2if]

If magnets are used to hold sockets in place, will that magnetize the sockets? I'm concerned because sockets are used around electronics. Magnets coming close or in contact with electronics can destroy electronics.

[@felixmanzo4257]

Never in my life have I ever worried about this because when you work on electronics you usually disconnect the power but i dunno that’s just me.

[@genecallen3520]

Best I've seen. I have the cheap socket rails and don't really like them. I have them hanging on my peg board, but now it looks like their days will end soon.

[@darrenhoffmann7114]

Great build, Thanks Mate

[@johnkillen588]

Outstanding work! Thanks

[@jamesmudd3345]

Genius idea

[@KipIngram]

It amazes me that you managed to talk about that for fifteen minutes. :-)

[@brett328]

I am amazed that that amazes you :o

[@KipIngram]

@@brett328 :-) Nice. Touche, my friend. Stay safe and well.

[@av6739]

Nice, clean craftsmanship. Great job.

[@D.Edward]

The biggest problem with this is that after they have been attached to a magnetic holder, you magnetize your sockets. Then they stick to everything near their path to the hardware you're going for. PLUS, when you put a bunch of these things in a drawer will they magnetically lift stuff off the drawer below that one and stick them to the bottom of your socket drawer? "cheers!"

[@AndrewL0000]

Nice work Anonymous! Very nice build!

[@brett328]

Thanks for comment

[@mikecarney2165]

Great idea, I think I would also add the extensions also.

[@leopdion5976]

Great idea. I’ve been looking at buying something like this but the price was too high

[@snap-off5383]

Just now tossing my metal socket rails after 12 years or so of using them. . . there's something to be said for finesse and ease of use. Definitely going to help you put the dang things back in the middle of the project when its just dropping it in a hole rather than stuffing it on a recalcitrant metal plug. A good source for ridiculously powerful neodymium magnets are old computer hard drives.

[@snap-off5383]

The drawback of magnets is when you drop the set. . . usually the magnets are weak enough the sockets scatter. I wonder how yours will perform.

[@brett328]

I'm sure if you drop the set from the workbench you'll be chasing them down. But easy in and out is the basic idea, so pros and cons I guess.

[@robscites4561]

Looks great. I hate those metal clip holders too. There is more room for an extension or two.

[@andrealavigne7824]

I just want to say a resounding Thank You! I have a relatively small socket collection. The bulk of them are on holders with their respective wrenches, but I do have a few individual sockets that are just kind of loose in my tool chest drawer. I have been looking recently for a solution, as I have a goal of better organizing my garage workshop. I've looked at the bar kind like you were showing, but they come only in sets with 1/4", 3/8", & 1/2" drives included. As I don't have 3/8" drive sockets, it just seemed wasteful to buy organizers for them. And after seeing you struggle with them, I'm glad I didn't go for it! I found a pouch type system, but at around $70+, that seemed a little much, especially since, again, it had spots for socket sizes I don't even own. And the DIY versions I've seen haven't been much more practical for me, since I don't necessarily stay near my tool chest when I'm working, but sometimes need to take tools with me. Your system will work perfectly, though! So thank you again. I'm definitely saving this video for when I get a chance to make my own organizer. I hope you have a wonderful day!

[@brett328]

Great, have fun. The grab and go aspect really is nice. It's also great, because when you grab the holder to take it back to the workshop, you'll always know immediately if one is missing with just a glance. Never loose a socket again.

[@johnvgig]

LOVE IT!!!!

[@steveposey8446]

Awesome idea, Bob thanks 😊

[@alannitz9919]

Looks great

[@Blackbird0022]

Gonna make some of my own thank you for the idea

[@jontnoneya3404]

I kinda like the solution even if it seems a bit more than necessary. I would have liked to see how you handle deep sockets and it seems like you need some extension bars on that one rail you made. Anyways good ideas....thanks for sharing.

[@brett328]

Noted

[@zgooglepage9291]

I love the idea. It looks you enough space to possibly add more magnets to hold a couple extensions also

[@brett328]

You're right, I've been thinking the same thing since I often have to go back to the tool box to dig out extensions and adapters. Just not high enough on my priority list at the moment. Probably see a redo down the road sometime. If you beat me to it, show me what you came up with, I like sharing ideas.

[@davidsirois9164]

Great Idea. I inherited a bunch of sockets and have been cleaning them and sorting between SAE and Metric. Also reorganizing my workshop so wanted to get a better way to store all of the sockets together. I really liked your idea of including the socket wrench with it as well.

[@DannyAllen10271966]

Good job!

[@markyh73]

I wish you made these for sale. Great job!

[@daviddolezal1921]

Awesome video

[@Ensign_Cthulhu]

Very nice. I would also add a label with the drive size, lined up with the ratchet, eg. "1/4 inch drive".

[@carolmartini610]

Great idea!

[@larryjanson4011]

looks great…but the width of the wood you are using is way to wide, takes up far too much real-estate in the drawer.

[@brett328]

TBH, none of my wracks sit in the drawer anyway. I have either stuck them on the metal sides of the cabinet or on my french cleat wall. Far easier to access, and of course, saves all the space in the cabinet they would normally take up. Thanks for your opinion though.

[@beauvrancken7104]

The final product is so much more visually appealing as well

[@chuckgrigsby9664]

Great idea. I've got about six random sets I have in a hip roof style portable steel tool box with a single tray. It takes a lot of effort to find the correct socket. I like your solution. I also thought that if you have extra sheets of labels, you could consider putting a label on each socket just for grins. Great ideas!

[@lordrichard8184]

The magnets are a fantastic idea. I need to make a socket holder for a mobile tool box and the magnets will definitely help to keep it all organized

[@brianb9410]

Excellent project and result, nice presentation! I am going to build one for myself. Thank you.

[@AmericanMakerCNC]

Fantastic idea! I have those cheap metal socket holders and they really are frustrating. The 1/4" clips are so thin, I've had a bunch snap in half when pulling a socket off. This is a great solution. Can't wait to make my own. Thanks for sharing!

[@Flabfive]

Nice work! My question is about the stickers. Did the stickers come with 10mm -or do they just correctly assume that the 10mm is missing???

[@brett328]

Lol, don't worry, with this system you'll never lose another 10 mm again

[@Rick-the-Swift]

❤😆

[@reidgeo]

Wonderful ! I was trying to figure out how I could make something for my sockets! Thanks for great ideas !

[@freda1078]

Bought bar magnets from Harbor Freight. Screw to wall put the sockets on, done in fifteen minutes.

[@lykaojalao2733]

Could not the sockets just hold on to the magnet without using the second board with holes?

[@Alan-jx7uk]

I have used these Neodymium magnets for many projects. What I can say is they are subject to damage. The coating flakes off and they chip and break easily. My suggestion would be to glue a piece of cloth or thin felt on top of the magnets to cushion the impact of the socket when you put them in your holder. As a Mechanic, I have to agree with you, I have been using the metal socket holders for years and they SUCK! As you state the sockets can be a bear to get off. But the kicker is after a few months they won't hold the sockets on at all and you are picking your sockets up off the floor constantly. Interesting project. I may try something like this. Thank you for posting.

[@brett328]

You are right, they are very brittle. This is the only issue I have had so far, I have had to replace or re-epoxy a couple of magnets over the last couple years. The felt is a good idea, or possibly just making sure to recess the magnets to just below the surface is another. Outside of that, these wracks are genuinely awesome even if I do say so myself. I have made them for my allen socket, torque sockets. etc... Every time someone sees my tool cabinet for the first time, they want to know where I got them.

[@jimstewart1044]

Great little project. Really nice.

[@michaelbedell6523]

Awesome ideas and presentation

[@charleshunt9217]

could you tell me what are them thd and where u get them the thing you have your open end wrenches in and your sockets what iss that u have your sockets inn aand your ope nn end wrenches could tell where u gget those

[@byronsequeira7483]

How much would you sell 3/8 socket organizer lol I'm not very skill with wood

[@brett328]

Just sharing ideas here, not looking to make by commission, but thanks for watching.

[@davidmaxwell7275]

Great idea with excellent presentation, you mentioned several times one handed, that’s me lost most of the use of my dominant hand to a stroke 20 years ago. I can now do most things in my workshop but trying to hold whatever is a pain. Will try the magnet project and see how I go. Thanks for sharing.😊

[@carolmartini610]

Maybe you want to do the same idea, but put the drive side up, so you just stick the wratchet right into the drive hole of the socket you chose…😮

[@dougsweldingfabrication953]

Those turned out great. Nice job !

[@Bigredkarl]

This is great im gonna use this on my portable tool box

[@oldoldpilgrim7898]

Could you let us know how that system worked out in around six months?

[@brett328]

Its been a couple years I think, and the systems have been a great addition to my shop. I havent lost a socket, wrench, allen or torgue driver yet. And yes, I've made similar wracks for all those drivers. The only issue that sometimes pops up (twice I think) is that an epoxied magnet will come loose or break. The magnets are brittle and you should just try to make sure that they are just slightly embedded below the surface and with ample epoxy to hold them. Slapping the set onto the metal tool cabinet over and over can create this issue. I will also say that everyone that comes into the shop and sees these wracks immediately comment on how awesome they are.

[@markking2310]

You sir have almost unlimited common sense. Had to subscribe. Thank YOU, and keep up the fantastic work.

[@brett328]

Too kind, thank you

[@mrsgoyen08]

This seem to be the best method. A bit of prep but well worth the time

[@jgrow15068]

I was drawn to your videos by the KZbin matrix, it's about time it got it right. Great video thank you, I will be making this.

[@brett328]

Thanks for taking the time to comment

[@rickbadessa4897]

Can't wait to see the wrench version of this

[@brett328]

It's coming

[@KipIngram]

Oh, I saw that the other day - look here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXTRkqt6apqngNE&lc=Ugw-g3qdPy4JosjWi-Z4AaABAg.9Qn6Vy_o2tU9Qp-jqtnFEg

[@johnleura909]

Would you consider selling me the tool control socket set?

[@schitzorage]

Very nice

[@WillN2Go1]

Great work. It is a big deal. Thanks for sharing. "This is a two hand operation" The most salient statement about bad tool design. It's not fully functional until it's a one hand operation. (The best part is no part, or one you don't have to fuss with.) Think of how many three hand operations we have to f* around with. (Errrgg!) I was under my sink replacing my Badger garbage disposal and wondering why after 50 years do I still have to hold 5 loose parts to put on a spring over my head? There's no excuse except brain death at some corporation. (I know what the first shop robot will be. A third arm - it's main use will be to help all those 3-handed tasks that should've been solved but haven't.) Can you drop it from table height (30") to a concrete floor and not end up with all the sockets on the ground? That'd be the acid test. I really like the labels. (I have an Apple wireless keyboard on which I've stuck big yellow letters and hot glued little bips on the odd numbers, ", z a, f &J (home keys the standard bips are too small), etc... on a number key pad I did the odd numbers -which allows me to touch type numbers with my left hand. BTW I'm a reasonably fast touch typist, but I still want to be able to glance at the keyboard and instantly find the right key to position my fingers.) I think the socket companies are chasing each other on price while completely missing what a pain it is keeping these things organized and easy to use. (I think if I ever really cleaned and organized my tools, I'd buy a couple sets of expensive color coded sockets and give all my old ones away.)

[@brett328]

Thanks for contributing. I doubt the sockets would stay put from a waist high drop to cement. Ease of the old in and out was my goal, along with it reasonable security. Honestly though, the absolute best part of it has proven to be the fact that somehow it always makes me put every socket back where it belongs, every time, without fail. Nothing else ever motivated me to be so diligent. The tray somehow beckons you.

[@peterfong8777]

A very good idea. Thanks 🙏

[@peterfong8777]

A very good idea. Thanks 🙏

[@StonemanRocks]

Just like all my stuff! I have it but i should have started looking for it yesterday!

[@kurtauerbach5883]

So I need to buy magnets and drill bits for every size 🙃

[@Rick-the-Swift]

❤ lmao. Right?

[@terryboyd9875]

Marvelous Idea Sir….Been thinking of a way to do this instead of the typical drawer organizers setup……will be making some of these …..

[@robertfontaine3650]

Wood and grease don't mix well but I love the magnets. Clearly I need a milling machine to do this in aluminum ;)

[@felixmanzo4257]

I signed in just because I wanted to reply to you. Question… why? If the whole purpose is to have an organized setup what does grease have to do with the wood? I get it will stain it but what else?

[@robertfontaine3650]

@@felixmanzo4257 Every wood surface in my garage has stains on them from my hands. Metal is just easier to clean when you work with things with grease and oil on them.

[@Method_MOK]

poly, shellac and/or paste wax finish resolves that issue and both easy to re-apply if needed. lots of these style holders and trays in my shop that stay clean with only the occasional swipe with a shop rag. all serve me well for woodworking projects as well as wrenching on my 4x4 and harley. best organized to my specific combination of tools and if that changes can use same method to make new or modify to suit. my ratchets are in a fitted tray, but i like what is demonstrated here even better.

[@markgilder9990]

Another reason to purchase a tool😊

[@lbabb0607]

Nice work, great idea. Labels are essential as everyone’s near vision worsens over the years

[@jimedson3853]

I started making one of these and the only problem I had was getting the sockets off of the now rusted metal rail🤪. Thanks for the video

[@waboom248]

Do the sockets get magnetized over time? That's the last thing I want is for the tools to take on a life of their own.

[@brett328]

Haven't noticed

[@Rick-the-Swift]

❤ lmao. Because everyone knows those pesky magnetized sockets go getting stuck to every piece of metal they meet- they're every mechanic's, and mechanic's wife's worst nightmare!!😆

[@SamFortino-uv2if]

Magnetized sockets might destroy electronics.

[@SamFortino-uv2if]

It is nice to place a magnetize socket on other metal while working so they don't roll away or get lost.

[@ryanschiavo5621]

Super nice man

[@larrd9213]

I can't seem to find the videos of you building these. I am positive I've seen them in the past.

[@iowafarmer5418]

Do you think your magnets are heavy enough for a 1/2" set? Or should I get heavier magnets. Thanks love the idea. I can not find socket organizers that hold sockets above 21 ,22mm, or 1-1/4". So I will probably use your idea and make my own. Thanks

[@brett328]

You can always just double up the magnets for heavier sockets. I did that for my wrench organizer. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXTRkqt6apqngNE

[@zachteeple8491]

Great idea and work

[@joerit633]

Great!! Just what I was looking for!! Thank you for sharing!!

[@mikegee7769]

Well done! Very practical. Thank you for sharing.

[@vaibhavmhase6709]

Nice idea 💡

[@ibdrummin82]

Great Idea and seem simple and cheap. Thx for the idea

[@LennyTheCat-9lives]

Really like both your socket and wrench holder builds! Probably the best working and looking out there! Some people might feel it is too much work, but I think they are something that will be great to pass on to my kids.

[@brett328]

Thanks 👍 Couldn't agree more.

[@jenson3810]

HEY!! You stole my screw driver.

[@Dancing_Alone_wRentals]

Yeah...I was thinking the same thing but didn't know if I should speak up. Great video, super idea....but...give back Jen Son's screwdriver! And have a great weekend!

[@psdaengr911]

The US General 18 inch Magnetic Knife and Tool Holder 60433 is often on sale for $2.

[@brett328]

I might consider buying it for the magnet alone, so I could strip it out. But certainly not as a replacement for these racks. If you've tried both you would know what I mean.

[@naamangeist7843]

Very cool! So, how are the labels holding up? I see a lot of complaints on Amazon about them not staying put. Also, where do I find the thin wood you're using for the top layer? Thanks

[@brett328]

Labels are sticking fine. Of course, I sprayed 2 coats of poly on them to seal them on. The top piece doesn't have to be a fancy hardwood. You can cut a piece of 1/4" or 3/8" plywood for that. Could probably even use 1/2" plywood if you're making a holder for 3/8" sockets

[@SARSteam]

You shared some ingenious solutions here ! Thanx a mil sir.

[@jayfoster5756]

Great idea, I am definitely going to make some for myself.

[@la5150hi-lophoto]

Every time I’d use my socket wrench, it would become a jumbled mess, thanks for restoring my sanity:)

[@brett328]

Glad you like it. Thanks

[@VintageJunker]

your angle cut is like a French cleat. you just cut the opposite board and mount on the wall and done. just lifts right off.

[@brett328]

I actually have a french cleat solution for the wrench racks I've recently designed. Video is coming out soon. It can work for these socket organizers as well.

[@GrandHighMarshall]

Brilliant! I love it. Thank-you.

[@ShaunHensley]

Use a tool cart to put the tools you are using on, then when done, put all tools away

[@bkwil6078]

You should go into business I would buy them

[@gandalf6134]

I would love to know the measurements of the holder you built in this video

[@brett328]

Make the tool rack to fit your tools. Its not one size fits all.

[@rickbadessa4897]

I'm already gathering materials!!!!!!

[@brycepj1]

Fantastic idea. Thanks for sharing this

[@randallcorbello2857]

I am definitely going to make Nissan

[@patrickcampbell1621]

Outstanding idea and finish product

[@driver3025]

I’d buy a set

[@brett328]

SOLD! To the man with the eagle eyes.

[@jayo4539]

I made one for my nail punches

[@NWGR]

'Get out in the shop, make something great." Wise words to live by, rather than being stuck in the perpetual planning phase of diy and projects. Excellent project that saves a good bit of space. I really like the chamfer underneath to make grabbing the tray easier. Adding this to my short list of projects to get done. Thanks for posting!

[@stevenrobinson9610]

I like your design the best (no one comes close) on both wrench and socket holders. The only way to improve your design is to use CAD software and use a cnc router to route out plywood panels. A cnc router would make production of these holders much faster and would allow for easy creative design changes without a lot of work. I would like to make these holders as Xmas gifts to sell at Craft shows. If these could be produced cheaply competing with Amazon's extremely expensive versions would be easy... I followed your advice and found socket labels/stickers on Amazon which would improve identification of each socket greatly... My moto for turning sixty-five years old is: I cannot see, hear, or remember, but these sticker labels will help....

[@brett328]

A CNC machine is a great idea, and using plywood would definitely lower production costs. I do not have a CNC, but you should go for it! Hope you are successful and I'd love to see what you come up with. Thanks for watching.

[@StonemanRocks]

I use chopsticks!

[@Max-kn9yi]

Do you really need these particular strong magnets?

[@felixmanzo4257]

Go to harbor breaks and buy a magnetic rail and tell me if you still should use stronger magnets

[@jeroldlmurray1616]

Nice. Vey nice. Thanks for the video.👍👍

[@brett328]

Thank you too

[@markcollard9326]

Ooh I love this idea.

[@StonemanRocks]

I like it!

[@JimVanderveen]

Great design!

[@jepcozenith40]

Brilliant.