For the top, make a frame from 5⁄8 to 3⁄4 inch thick and 3 or 4 inches wide, putting the ends together with end lap or mortise and tenon joints.
Secure this frame to top of box by screws. These may be round-heads, or if it is desirable to hide them, the method shown in [Fig. 190] can be used. This is accomplished by boring a 3⁄16-inch hole through the top frame. At the same centre a 1⁄2-inch hole is bored partly through. The screw is driven home and a round wooden plug glued into the 1⁄2-inch hole. When dry, this plug is sawed off and planed smooth.
The top frame having been secured, two gauge lines are made for sawing the cover, as in previous boxes, and the two parts dressed to gauge lines, ready for hinging.
Fig. 190. The old-fashioned tool chest
Before putting on the hinges, the top is to be finished with a raised panel. Square up a piece of stock two inches longer and wider than the open space in the top frame. Round upper edges, and secure to frame by flat-head screws from the under side through holes bored and countersunk.
Next put on hinges, which should be large and strong, the variety known as strap hinges. Cut out space for lock, and fit. The holes for key are bored with a gimlet bit and cut out enough to allow the key to enter freely; or hasp, staple and padlock may be used.
