How To Build Kitchen Cabinet
When it comes to hands on projects involving power tools and building, a lot of people shy away from it because they don’t know what they are doing or how to do it. However, this particular tutorial is going to make one of these things a lot easier for you. Building your kitchen cabinets is a great way to get what you want in your home and it gives you a sense of accomplishment! Below, you’re going to learn everything there is to know about building your own cabinets so you can do so with ease!
What You Will Need To Follow This Tutorial
As with just about any tutorial, it’s important to make sure you have the right materials on hand so that you can successfully complete the job the right way. If you want to have the best results possible, you should make sure you have the following materials on hand during your project.
To begin, you need to make sure that you have all necessary power tools including a saw, drills, sander and some other high powered tools to make the entire process easier. Additionally, make sure you have the necessary safety supplies such as a mask and safety glasses. Lastly, be sure to have access to an entire tool kit in case you need it.
Step By Step Instructions
Design
The first thing you need to do is have a design in mind so you know what you are trying to build. Make a detailed design along with plenty of measurements so you know what to aim for and cutting will be a breeze.
Cut Sides
First, you a ¾” MDF or plywood to cut the side pieces you need for the cabinets. It doesn’t need to be a great material so keep that in mind because people will not see the sides.
Cut Bottom
The bottom panel will be around 2 feet deep but the width might change depending on your design. The width of the bottom panel needs to equal the total width of the cabinet minus the two side panels.
Cut Two Base
Next, cut two pieces of 1x6 wood and ensure it is the same width of the bottom panel. If you are making wall cabinets, you do not need this step and you can move onto the next one.
Cut Top Bracers
Next, cut two more pieces of 1x6 wood to the same length. These particular pieces are going to be used to help brace the upper portion of the panels. Once again, if you are building wall cabinets, then you can skip this step as well and move to the next.
Cut Face Panels
You will see this part of the cabinet so make sure you use a wood that looks appealing to you. If you want to achieve a certain look, you can use a couple different sizes including 1x2s, 1x3s and 1x4s.
Assemble The Base
Next, line up the flat face of a base panel to the back edge of the bottom panel and then the second base piece needs to be about three inches from the other end of the panel. You can then glue these pieces in place and drill pilot holes to secure the pieces together with screws.
Add Side Panels
Attach the side panels you have to the base you just assemble with a glue and screw process. Make sure the base and all edges are flush and be sure you get the right and correct 90 degree.
Secure Top Braces
Once again, you need to fit and glue the upper brace so that the flat pane is flush the back of the cabinet and can rest against the wall. Repeat this step on the other side for the next brace.
Nail Back Panel
Once you know the dimensions of the frame, cut a back panel from ½” plywood and screw it into place. If you are doing wall cabinets, you should use a thicker material around ¾”.
Reinforce Connections
Using corner brackets and screws, reinforce all of your connections within the cabinet.
Insert Shelves
Measure both sides of the cabinet and mark on each side for your shelves. Measure and ensure they are level before installing for corner brackets, two on each side, for the selves to rest in. Slide the shelves in once this is done.
Fit And Attach
Move the cabinets to their final place and secure them into the proper place by screwing them through the back panel and into the wall studs. If you are using wall cabinets, this step is crucial and needs a lot more support.
Install Doors
Unless you happen to be remodeling a massive kitchen, the best thing for you to do is to just buy the doors to install. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and you’ll be all set and ready to go.
Conclusion
Now that you have taken the time to read this entire post, I hope you have had the chance to learn all there is to know about how to build a kitchen cabinet for your home! While it might be a lot more work than you thought, it is well worth it in the long run and you will feel that sense of accomplishment when you are finished with it! By following all of the information outlined above, you’ll be able to build your own kitchen cabinets in no time! If you enjoyed this article, please feel free to share it with your friends and family and be sure to comment below with any comments or advice you might have!
About the Author Darrell Webster
I believe there is a handyman in all of us as long as you have the right tools. I started this blog to help anyone who is interested in fixing things to learn their way around the different tools and to know how to perform different DIY tasks. I have been doing this for years and believe I am a master of this art.