Knowing how to build your own kitchen cabinets can transform your kitchen area from crowded to comfortable. Whether you want to add a cabinet on the wall or on the ground with a countertop, when you learn how to build a kitchen cabinet yourself, you can save lots of money on home improvements. Following this checklist of how to measure, what to buy and how to assemble, you can put in a kitchen cabinet where you need it most.
Measure the space. Using a tape measure, determine the finished height, length and depth of the wood cabinets. TIP: If you have a cabinet you are trying to match, simply measure the finished cabinet.
Get building plans. Intermediate woodworkers can access a variety of construction or building plans for simple kitchen cabinets to extensive kitchen remodel plans. For easy woodworking projects involving a single cabinet or two, larger plans can be customized to fit your needs. TIP: You can find many plans on the Web and customize them.
Gather the tools you'll need. You'll need a jig saw, table saw, router, doweling jig, clamps, sander, drill and screwdrivers. TIP: Rent any power tools you don't already have from a lumber store or home improvement store.
Buy lumber. Since so many colors, finishes and even types of wood are available, choosing the wood has the most impact on the final look of the cabinet. The most popular types of wood used for cabinets are oak, pine, maple, cherry and mahogany. TIP: Consider bamboo veneer as an eco-friendly alternative to more expensive hardwoods.
Purchase hardware. Don't forget the hardware if you are putting pulls, rings or knobs on the front. TIP: Purchase adjustable hinges so it is easier to align the kitchen cupboard door.
Stain the wood. Before assembling, stain all the pieces of wood and allow them plenty of time to dry. That way, if you need to make the stain darker to match existing cabinets, you have the time. TIP: Dark stains tend to make a kitchen look smaller, so go light if your space is limited.
Construct the cabinet. Start to assemble the cabinet according to the plans. Take care to follow the instructions precisely. Building kitchen cabinets is really just assembling a box with a door, so don't let the job intimidate you. TIP: Always wear safety goggles and ear plugs when using power tools.
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