Building your own basic wall cabinet can be a fun and rewarding DIY woodworking project. With the right planning and materials, you can create customized storage to fit your space. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to build a basic wall cabinet from scratch.
Choose a Location
The first step in any cabinet build is deciding where you want it installed. Here are some tips for choosing the best location:
- Consider traffic flow in the room. Try not to place the cabinet somewhere that will create an obstacle.
- Check for obstructions like pipes, vents or electrical outlets on the wall. You want a clear area to mount the cabinet.
- Wall studs are ideal for securing the cabinet. Locate them using a stud finder and mark their positions with painter’s tape.
- Ensure the wall surface is flat. Cabinets show any imperfections of the wall behind them.
Take measurements of the wall space to determine the maximum size of cabinet you can accommodate.
Gather Materials and Tools
Building a basic wall cabinet is a relatively easy woodworking project for a beginner DIYer. With just plywood, boards, and basic tools, you can achieve professional-looking results.
Lumber
- 3/4″ plywood for the cabinet box, shelves, and door
- 1×3 boards for face frame, trim, and supports
- 1×2 boards for door header and hanging rail
Hardware
- Cabinet hinges
- Magnetic catches
- Shelf pins
- Wood glue
- Brad nails
- Wood screws
- Sandpaper
Tools
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill/driver
- Tape measure
- Level
- Stud finder
- Hammer
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Safety equipment (goggles, respirator mask, ear protection)
Purchase quality, straight lumber for the best results. Prefinished plywood makes finishing easier. Have wood cut to size at the home improvement store to transport it more easily.
Cut Pieces to Size
Working from a plan with precise measurements is crucial when cutting cabinet parts. Calculate sizes needed based on your desired cabinet dimensions and make a cut list.
Be sure to account for:
- Thickness of materials
- Overhang of face frame
- Spacing of shelf pin holes
- Door and drawer clearances
Cut plywood with a circular saw or tablesaw for straight, smooth edges. Cut board pieces to length with a miter saw. Refer frequently to your plans and double check measurements before making cuts.
Assemble the Cabinet Box
The cabinet box forms the basic structure of the wall cabinet. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Cut plywood sides, top and bottom
- Cut 2 sides to desired height and width
- Cut 1 top and 1 bottom to width of cabinet sides
Step 2. Attach cabinet bottom
- Position plywood bottom between sides, flush with bottom edges
- Secure with wood glue and brad nails every 4-6 inches
Step 3. Attach cabinet top
- Align top piece between sides on top edge
- Glue and nail into place
Step 4. Add fixed shelving
- Cut shelves to fit width and depth of cabinet sides
- Use shelf pin holes to position shelves at desired heights
- Secure with glue and brad nails through sides
Check cabinet box for square after assembly by measuring the diagonals – they should be equal.
Build a Face Frame
The face frame gives a cabinet its finished look and hides the plywood edges. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Cut face frame pieces
- Cut 2 vertical stiles equal to interior cabinet height
- Cut 2 horizontal rails equal to interior width, minus 1/2″ for door overlap
Step 2: Assemble frame
- Lay pieces together in a square/rectangle, with ends flush
- Attach with wood glue and finish nails, or pocket screws
- Wipe away any excess glue squeeze-out
Step 3: Install on Cabinet
- Center frame on cabinet front, keeping sides plumb
- Attach to sides/top/bottom using wood glue and brad nails
- Use finish nails for extra strength
- Fill nail holes with wood putty once secured
Add Cabinet Doors
For a simple cabinet, you can make doors using plywood panels with a solid wood frame:
Step 1: Cut plywood panel
- Cut plywood to size of door opening minus 1/4″ on all sides for clearance
- Cut slowly and smoothly for clean edges
Step 2: Build door header
- Cut 1×2 board equal to width of door opening
- Center and attach to top of plywood panel with glue and brad nails
Step 3: Attach side trim pieces
- Cut 1×2 boards equal to height of door minus 1/4″
- Attach trim pieces to sides of panel with glue and nails
Step 4: Hang doors
- Install door hinges to face frame and door
- Adjust until door is square and aligned
- Add magnetic catches to keep door closed
Apply wood filler to hide brad nails and sand smooth when dry. The door is ready for staining, painting or other finishing.
Final Cabinet Installation
Once construction is complete, it’s time to hang the wall cabinet:
Step 1: Add cabinet top trim
- Cut 1×2 board to fit width of cabinet top
- Miter ends at 45 degrees and attach with finish nails
Step 2: Install hanging rail
- Cut 1×2 rail equal to width of cabinet
- Attach to cabinet back near top with screws
Step 3: Mount cabinet on wall
- Locate and mark studs at desired height
- Drill pilot holes in cabinet rail and studs
- Use lag screws to attach at stud locations
- Use wall anchors if needed between studs
Step 4. Add trim
- Install 1×2 trim pieces on sides and bottom to give a built-in look
- Miter trim ends at 45 degrees and attach with finish nails
Now fill the cabinet and enjoy your custom wall storage! With some planning and basic carpentry skills, building your own wall cabinet is an achievable DIY project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some common questions about building basic wall cabinets:
How deep should a wall cabinet be?
The standard depth for a wall cabinet is between 12-16 inches. Shallow cabinets around 12 inches deep are common above refrigerators or ranges. Deeper 16 inch cabinets provide ample storage for dishes or pantry items.
What thickness of plywood should I use?
3/4 inch plywood is ideal for cabinet projects to ensure sturdiness once assembled. Use plywood with an A-grade face to minimize patching later. Hardwood plywood has a smooth face while sanded plywood will need finishing.
What is the best wood to build cabinets?
Plywood provides stability for the cabinet box and panels. Hardwood like poplar or maple is commonly used for structural face frame pieces. Oak, cherry or maple work well for visible cabinet doors and fronts. Use durable wood that matches your aesthetic.
How are wall cabinets attached?
Wall cabinets are commonly attached to wall studs for secure mounting. Use cleats or hanging rails across the cabinet width attached with lag screws into studs. Reinforce with wall anchors between studs if needed.
What hardware do I need for cabinets?
Cabinet hinges allow proper door alignment and full access inside. Self-closing hinges are useful for upper cabinets. Shelf pins support adjustable shelving. Magnetic catches keep doors closed securely.
Should I use glue and nails for cabinetmaking?
Using both glue and nails ensures joints stay flush and tight over time. The nails provide immediate holding strength while the glue dries for a permanent, long-lasting bond. Apply glue to all joints during assembly.
Conclusion
Building your own basic wall cabinet for storage can be a fun and rewarding DIY project using just plywood, boards and common tools. Follow the steps for constructing the cabinet box, adding a face frame, installing doors, and mounting on the wall. The result will be a custom wall cabinet storage solution perfect for your space. With the right planning and materials, you can achieve beautiful, professional results installing wall cabinets on your own.
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