Essential Methods of Cabinet Construction
The three basic cabinet making operations are cutting, assembly, and finishing.
Step-by-Step Guide: Building DIY Kitchen Cabinets
- Determine the size and shape of your cabinets.
- Calculate sizes needed, then cut wood with tools like a saw, drill holes if needed, and assemble cabinet pieces using techniques like dowels or screws.
Types of Cabinetry
- Custom Cabinetry
- Semi-Stock Cabinetry
- Stock Cabinetry
Materials for Cabinet Making
- MDF
- Plywood
- Solid Wood
Cabinet Construction Types
- Face Framed
- Frameless
Cabinet Making Tools and Techniques
Tools: tablesaw, bandsaw, router, drill, screwdriver, clamp
Techniques: straight cuts with tablesaw; curved cuts with bandsaw; shaping with router; drilling holes for screws; clamping glued joints
Advantages of Frameless Cabinet Construction
A frameless cabinet box offers more ease of access and storage space by removing the face frame. Frameless cabinetry has a sleeker look to it with seamless lines, and cabinet doors attached directly to the side of the box.
Finishing Cabinets
Cabinets are finished by sanding, applying stains or paints, adding a top coat for protection, then curing through a controlled heating process.
Types of Kitchen Cabinets
- Partial Overlay
- Full Overlay
- Inset
Tips for Building Cabinets
- Customize the design to fit specific needs.
- Choose size, shape, and style.
- Select suitable materials.
Suitable Wood for Cabinetry
Red oak, poplar, maple, mahogany, or plywood are commonly used for built-in cabinets.