How to Build Cabinets

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of building standard cabinets suitable for kitchens, pantries, or workshops. This comprehensive guide covers everything from cutting cabinet parts to assembling the carcass, creating face frames, and making doors and drawers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced woodworker, you'll find valuable tips and techniques to enhance your cabinet-building skills.

Chapter 1: Cutting Cabinet Parts

1. Materials Needed

   • 3/4 inch plywood for carcasses
   • 1/4 inch plywood for backs and drawer bottoms

2. Breaking Down Plywood

   • Use a centipede work holder with foam on top to create a stable cutting surface.
   • A track saw is ideal for cutting plywood, but a circular saw with a straight edge can also work.

3. Final Cuts

   • After rough cutting, use a table saw to trim to final dimensions.
   • Cut strips for stretchers (4 inches wide) and toe kicks (4.5 inches wide).

4. Notching Corners

   • Cut notches in the bottom corners for toe kicks using a band saw or a jigsaw with a square guide.
   • Use a MAG switch as a positive stop for consistent cuts.

5. Cutting Grooves

   • Draw reference lines on carcass sides for grooves.
   • Use a router with a specific bit for 3/4 inch plywood to cut grooves for the bottom and back.

6. Adding Shelf Pin Holes

   • Drill shelf pin holes now for adjustable shelves, as it's easier before assembly.

Chapter 2: Assembling a Cabinet Carcass

1. Joinery

   • Use pocket screws for joinery.
   • Add pocket holes to the stretchers.

2. Assembly Steps

   • Apply glue to the bottom dado and slide the bottom panel into place, then clamp.
   • Add back stretchers and clamp them securely before screwing in place.

3. Adding Drawer Dividers

   • Use spacers to ensure proper alignment and secure the drawer divider.

4. Attaching Toe Kicks and Back Panels

   • Attach toe kicks using pocket screws.
   • Cut 1/4 inch plywood for the back and nail it into the back stretcher with a brad nailer.

5. Modifying for More Drawers

   • If desired, add additional drawer dividers for a four-drawer version.
   • Secure cabinets together with clamps and screws if combining multiple units.

Chapter 3: Making Face Frames

1. Materials for Face Frames

   • Use hard maple for a match with maple plywood, or poplar for a painted finish.

2. Cutting and Joining

   • Joint one edge of the lumber and rip to final width (1 1/4 inches for most parts).
   • Use pocket screws for joining face frame parts, ensuring to clamp joints securely.

3. Sanding and Attaching

   • Sand face frames to 120 and then 180 grit for a smooth finish.
   • Attach face frames with glue and clamps to avoid visible nail holes.

Chapter 4: Making Drawers

1. Drawer Construction

   • Cut parts with grooves facing outward; front and back have pocket holes.
   • Clamp and screw parts together, then slide the drawer bottom into place from the back.

2. Installing Drawer Slides

   • Use full extension side mount slides, aligning them with the front of the drawer and cabinet.
   • Use a scrap piece of plywood for height reference when installing slides.

Chapter 5: Making Doors and Drawer Fronts

1. Frame and Panel Construction

   • Cut frame parts to size (2 inches wide), adding a 1/4 inch groove for the center panel.
   • Use a tenoning jig for accurate cuts on frame ends.

2. Assembling Doors and Drawer Fronts

   • Apply glue to tongues and insert panels into grooves.
   • Clamp to secure and clean excess glue.

3. Drilling for Hardware

   • Use a drawer pull jig for consistent placement of pull holes.
   • Install hidden cup hinges with a depth stop drill bit for precise pocket cuts.

Chapter 6: Installing Doors and Drawer Fronts

1. Positioning the Door

   • Create a makeshift spacer with plywood scraps to position the door accurately.
   • Drill pilot holes and screw the door into place.

2. Attaching Drawer Fronts

   • Use a spacer strip on top of the door for alignment.
   • Secure drawer fronts by drilling through the front and attaching from behind.

Conclusion

You now have a detailed understanding of how to build standard cabinets from start to finish. Remember to take your time with each step and ensure accurate measurements for the best results. As you become comfortable with the process, feel free to experiment with different styles and finishes. Happy woodworking!