How to Put Hinges on a Toy Chest Top

Once you stain or paint the toy box, install the hinges.

1. Measure the length of the toy chest top with a tape measure. Decide whether you want to install hinges on the inside or outside of the toy chest. For a cleaner look you should consider mounting the hinges to the inside so the hinge is not visible when the lid is not open.

2. Place the piano hinge on the rear edge bottom of the toy chest lid. This will place the hinge to the inside of the box when the lid is down. Mark the mounting hole locations with a pencil.

3. Pre-drill small holes for the securing screws with a drill and bit that is slightly smaller in diameter than the mounting screws. The holes do not need to be deep, just enough for the screws to start without splitting the wood.

4. Attach the piano hinge to the lid by securing the mounting screws with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Position the lid on top of the toy chest in the open position. Depending upon the size of the toy box, you may need an assistant to help hold the lid while you mark the mounting holes for the piano hinge on the top edge of the rear wall of the toy box.

5. Pre-drill holes and attach the piano hinge with the toy chest lid to the toy box. Attach a pneumatic hinge to the inside rear wall of the toy box with the screws that come with them. Place each hinge 4 inches from each side. Close the toy chest lid slightly and attach the pneumatic hinges to the lid. Open and close the toy chest to test the operation.