# How to make a hex-key drawer index with vibe CAD

Arrange a set of loose L-shaped hex keys in an open drawer insert with visible size labels and space to lift each tool by its long arm.

Category: Organization. Difficulty: Beginner.

By partsforagents · AI-authored · Updated 2026-11-10.

## Make this project
An unprinted storage index, not a hex-key size gauge, torque tool or assessment of hardware suitability.

This recipe has not been physically validated. Create and inspect the exact CAD for your dimensions; a concept image is not an orderable CAD file.

## 1. Measure
- Measure each key’s long arm, short arm and widest cross section, including any rounded end.
- Record the bend shape and the size marking already present on each tool.
- Measure the available drawer footprint and clearance beneath the closed drawer above.
- Choose pickup spacing with the actual keys laid out on a paper plan.

## 2. Give your CAD agent this prompt

Create a hex-key index with long_arm_lengths, short_arm_lengths, key_widths, bend_profiles, channel_gaps, label_widths and drawer_limits. Use open L-shaped nests without gripping clips. Ask for the actual key measurements and label convention. Keep each channel independently editable; do not infer a tool’s working size from its storage-pocket dimensions.

## 3. Model and inspect
1. **Trace the actual tool shapes** — Lay out the keys in size order and trace both arms and the bend. Include rounded ends and preserve the original tool labels in the reference list.

2. **Build shallow open nests** — Create channels around the traced shapes with the selected gaps. Keep the walls low and reserve a broad pickup opening beside each long arm.

3. **Expose the size index** — Place readable size labels beside the corresponding short arms. Keep the text out of the channels and round exposed corners without closing the pickup openings.

## 4. Check the prototype
- Arrange actual keys on the paper layout and confirm each can be lifted without moving its neighbors.
- Inspect the bend region of every nest, where a simple square corner can collide with the real tool.
- Verify the exported dimensions and label order, then plan a representative channel sample before full fabrication.

## Avoid this mistake
A right-angle channel made from two rectangles can interfere with the key’s curved bend; trace that region rather than assuming a sharp corner.

## Choose the material
PLA or PETG may be explored for the insert. Sample the channel finish and drawer gap; no material choice establishes wear resistance or a gripping fit.

## Order this part now

[Submit your CAD](https://partsforagents.com/for-humans?project=hex-key-drawer-index#workspace) or [connect your agent](https://partsforagents.com/guides/cad-to-print#connect).

Have the model ready? Upload the exact customer-approved file. Starting from this guide? Generate the CAD from your measurements, inspect it and export the revision you want made. Include this guide URL in the review notes; the file and approved specification determine the part.

Required inputs:
- Authorized exact CAD file
- Declared units
- Material family and requested grade/color
- Quantity
- Intended use and critical fit requirements
- Contact email
- Destination country and postal code

**No payment at submission.** Submit a nonbinding manufacturing request now; the exact reviewed offer and payment link follow when ready. Current firm production scope is reviewed PLA/PETG for eligible contiguous-US/DC delivery.

### Agent submission steps
1. **upload_cad_request** — Get authorization to store/process the exact exported file, then use its bytes and approved intake fields. Save the returned request ID and file SHA-256.

2. **get_cad_preflight** — Read measured geometry and unknowns for that uploaded file.

3. **set_manufacturing_specification** — Save the customer-approved manufacturing choices and returned specification fingerprint.

4. **place_order** — Submit order_type manufacturing with the real request ID, exact specification fingerprint, acknowledge_nonbinding true and a saved unique idempotency key. Include this guide URL in review_notes along with the approved requirements.

5. **get_order_fulfillment** — Use the returned order ID to read the authoritative offer and manufacturing progress. A recipe URL alone never identifies an order.

Reconcile an uncertain result before retrying. Reuse identical arguments and the same idempotency key; never submit a second request just because its payment link is pending.

## Machine-readable resources

- [This complete guide as JSON](https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/hex-key-drawer-index/guide.json)
- [All project guides](https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/catalog.json)
- [Exact tool schemas](https://partsforagents.com/tools.json)
- Full workflow MCP: https://partsforagents.com/api/mcp (authenticated)
- Free advice MCP: https://partsforagents.com/api/advice/mcp
- Canonical guide: https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/hex-key-drawer-index