How to Make a Key Holder to Organize Your Keys

Get organized and put an end to key clutter with this handy key holder.

Supplies to Make the Key Holder

• Piece of wood or MDF 4" x 4" x ¾" (your size can vary depending on how may keys you want to accommodate)
• Acrylic blank for engraving
• Two small brass screws
• FolkArt Home Decor Clear Wax

Equipment to Make the Key Holder

• Engraving Device GE 20
• Proxxon Profession Rotary Tool and Drill Stand MB 200
• Proxxon Table Saw FET
• Proxxon Micro Bandsaw MBS/E
• Proxxon Disc Sander TSG 250/E
• Kapro Measure Mate

Instructions for Making the Key Holder

Engraving the Blank

1. Select the letter plates for engraving, and place them in the guide strip of the engraving device.
   
2. Position the engraving blank, and securely clamp in place.
   
3. Position the guide marker into the first letter blank, and begin engraving.
   
4. Mark the position of the holes for attaching the engraved blank to the key holder. Drill the mounting holes using the professional rotary tool and drill stand.
   

Note: Many acrylic blanks come with a protective layer. This should be left in place during the engraving process, and removed when the engraving in complete. 

Making the Key Holder

1. Select your piece of wood. Your dimensions can be different than mine. Add width to accommodate more keys. Add height depending upon the number of slots that you desire. However, the wood needs to be at least ¾" thick to accommodate the slots.
2. Adjust the angle of the table saw blade to 20°.
3. Cut as many slots as necessary to accommodate your keys. The slots on this project are 1¼" apart.
4. Use the Kapro Measure Mate to measure and mark the height of your key holder. Mine is 4" high.
   
5. Use the band saw to cut the wood to length.
   
6. Measure, mark, and drill holes for mounting the engraved blank.
   
7. Sand any rough edges on the disc sander.
   
8. Apply a coat of FolkArt Home Decor Wax to the key holder. Dry overnight, then buff with a soft cloth.
   
9. Add your choice of hanging hardware on the back side of the key holder.
10. Remove any protective film from the engraved blank and mount the blank onto the key holder.
    
11. Eliminate your key clutter with your new key holder.
    

Carole