Build a Storage Cabinet with Doors A Step-by-Step Guide

Planning and Design

Before you start building your storage cabinet, it’s important to carefully plan and design it. This ensures that your cabinet meets your needs and fits perfectly in your space.

Purpose and Intended Use

The purpose and intended use of the storage cabinet will influence its design. For example, a cabinet for storing tools will have different requirements than one for storing clothes. Consider the following:

• What will you store in the cabinet?
• How much storage space do you need?
• What are the dimensions of the items you’ll be storing?
• Do you need any special features, such as shelves, drawers, or doors?

Dimensions and Overall Size

Once you know what you’ll be storing, you can determine the dimensions and overall size of the cabinet. Consider the following:

• Available space: Measure the area where you plan to place the cabinet.
• Storage needs: Determine the amount of storage space you require based on the items you’ll be storing.
• Cabinet height: Decide on the desired height of the cabinet, taking into account your reach and the space available.
• Cabinet width: Determine the width of the cabinet based on the available space and the items you’ll be storing.
• Cabinet depth: Choose a depth that provides adequate storage space while allowing the cabinet to fit comfortably in the available area.

Materials

The materials you choose will impact the look, durability, and cost of your storage cabinet. Here’s a list of common materials and their characteristics:

• Wood:
  • Plywood: Affordable, strong, and versatile. Available in various thicknesses and finishes.
  • MDF (Medium-density fiberboard): Smooth surface, good for painting, but not as strong as plywood.
  • Solid wood: Durable, aesthetically pleasing, but more expensive.
• Hardware:
  • Hinges: Choose hinges that are appropriate for the weight of the doors.
  • Handles: Select handles that are comfortable to use and match the style of the cabinet.
  • Shelving brackets: Provide support for shelves.
  • Screws and nails: Securely fasten the cabinet components.
• Tools:
  • Power tools:
    • Circular saw: Cutting wood to size.
    • Drill/driver: Driving screws and creating pilot holes.
    • Sanding tools: Smoothing surfaces and edges.
  • Hand tools:
    • Measuring tape: Measuring and marking wood.
    • Level: Ensuring that shelves and doors are level.
    • Clamps: Holding pieces of wood together while gluing or screwing.
    • Screwdrivers: Driving screws and removing screws.
    • Hammer: Driving nails and assembling parts.

  Construction Diagram, How to build a storage cabinet with doors

  A detailed sketch or diagram of the cabinet’s construction is essential for visualizing the assembly process. The diagram should include:

  • Measurements: Accurate dimensions of each component.
  • Cuts: Indicating where to cut the wood for each piece.
  • Joinery techniques: Showing how to join the different components together, such as using screws, glue, or dowels.
  • Hardware placement: Marking the locations for hinges, handles, and other hardware.

  Tools

  A list of necessary tools for the project, including power tools and hand tools, is crucial for ensuring you have everything you need before you begin.

  • Power tools:
    • Circular saw: Cutting wood to size.
    • Drill/driver: Driving screws and creating pilot holes.
    • Sanding tools: Smoothing surfaces and edges.
  • Hand tools:
    • Measuring tape: Measuring and marking wood.
    • Level: Ensuring that shelves and doors are level.
    • Clamps: Holding pieces of wood together while gluing or screwing.
    • Screwdrivers: Driving screws and removing screws.
    • Hammer: Driving nails and assembling parts.

  Construction

  
  Now that you have a solid plan and design, it’s time to get your hands dirty and start building! This section will guide you through the process of cutting, assembling, and finishing your storage cabinet.

  Cutting and Preparing Wood

  Cutting and preparing the wood pieces is the first step in building your cabinet. The accuracy of your cuts will directly impact the final appearance and functionality of your cabinet.

  First, carefully measure and mark the wood according to your design plans. Use a saw, like a circular saw or table saw, to make precise cuts. Ensure you have a sharp blade and use a guide to maintain straight cuts. You may need to make adjustments to your cuts based on the thickness of your chosen wood.

  Once the pieces are cut, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections. This will create a smoother surface for assembling the cabinet and enhance its overall look.

  Joinery Techniques

  Several joinery techniques can be used to assemble the cabinet frame. The best choice depends on your skill level, the tools you have available, and the desired aesthetic.

  • Pocket Holes: This technique uses a jig to create angled holes on the ends of the wood pieces. These holes allow you to insert screws, creating a strong and hidden joint. This method is relatively easy to learn and is ideal for beginners.
  • Dowels: Dowels are cylindrical wooden pins that fit into pre-drilled holes in the wood pieces. This creates a strong and durable joint, particularly useful for joining pieces at right angles. It requires more precision and a drill press for accurate drilling.
  • Mortise and Tenon Joints: This traditional joinery technique involves cutting a rectangular hole (mortise) in one piece of wood and a corresponding projection (tenon) on the other. This creates a strong and elegant joint, but it requires more skill and specialized tools.

  Assembling the Cabinet Frame

  Once you’ve chosen your joinery technique, it’s time to assemble the cabinet frame. Here’s a general process:

  1. Join the Sides: Begin by joining the two sides of the cabinet. Use your chosen joinery technique and ensure the sides are perfectly aligned. Secure them with clamps and allow the glue to dry completely.
  2. Attach the Top and Bottom: Once the sides are secure, attach the top and bottom pieces to the sides. Again, use your chosen joinery technique and ensure everything is aligned. Secure with clamps and allow the glue to dry.
  3. Reinforce with Braces: To add extra strength and stability, consider adding braces to the inside corners of the cabinet. These can be made from wood or metal and will help prevent the cabinet from warping or flexing.

  Building and Installing Shelves

  After the cabinet frame is assembled, it’s time to add the shelves.

  • Cut Shelf Pieces: Measure and cut the shelf pieces to the desired width and depth. Ensure they fit snugly inside the cabinet.
  • Attach Shelf Supports: To support the shelves, you can use shelf pins, brackets, or even build simple supports from wood. If using shelf pins, drill holes for the pins on the cabinet sides at the desired shelf heights. If using brackets, attach them to the cabinet sides.
  • Install Shelves: Once the shelf supports are in place, carefully slide the shelves into position. Ensure they are level and secure.

  Adding Decorative Trim

  If desired, you can add decorative trim or moldings to enhance the look of your cabinet.

  • Choose Trim: Select trim that complements the style of your cabinet. You can choose from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, or plastic.
  • Measure and Cut: Carefully measure the areas where you want to add trim and cut the pieces to size.
  • Attach Trim: Use wood glue and finish nails or a brad nailer to attach the trim to the cabinet. Ensure the trim is flush with the edges of the cabinet and that any seams are well-hidden.

  Doors and Hardware: How To Build A Storage Cabinet With Doors

  
  Now that your cabinet frame is assembled, it’s time to add the doors! The type of door you choose will depend on your design preferences and the overall style of your cabinet.

  Types of Cabinet Doors

  The choice of cabinet door style can significantly impact the functionality and aesthetics of your storage cabinet. Here are some popular options:

  • Hinged Doors: These are the most common type of cabinet door, and they are simple to install and operate. They swing open on hinges, which can be concealed or visible depending on your design preference.
  • Sliding Doors: Sliding doors are ideal for space-saving purposes, especially in smaller areas. They move horizontally on tracks, eliminating the need for swinging space. These doors can be single or double, and they often come with soft-close mechanisms for a quiet and smooth operation.
  • Bi-fold Doors: Bi-fold doors consist of two panels that fold in half, making them perfect for cabinets with limited space in front of them. They are often used in closets or pantry cabinets.

  Creating Custom Doors or Using Pre-made Doors

  • Custom Doors: If you want a truly unique look or need specific dimensions, creating custom doors from scratch allows you to achieve your desired aesthetic. You can use various materials like wood, plywood, or even metal. This process requires woodworking skills and access to tools like a table saw, router, and planer.
  • Pre-made Doors: For a simpler approach, pre-made cabinet doors are readily available in various styles, materials, and sizes. They offer a convenient option, especially for DIY enthusiasts who lack extensive woodworking experience. Pre-made doors are often made from materials like wood, MDF, or laminate.

  Installing Hinges and Door Handles

  • Hinges: Choose hinges that match the style and weight of your doors. Install them securely to the cabinet frame and doors, ensuring proper alignment for smooth opening and closing. Use a drill and screws to attach the hinges.
  • Door Handles: Select handles that complement your cabinet design and provide a comfortable grip. Install them on the doors, ensuring they are positioned at a comfortable height for easy access. Use appropriate screws and a screwdriver to attach the handles.

  Attaching Doors to the Cabinet Frame

  • Hinged Doors: Once the hinges are installed, carefully attach the doors to the cabinet frame, ensuring they are level and aligned. Adjust the hinge screws to fine-tune the door alignment. Use a level to ensure that the doors are plumb and square.
  • Sliding Doors: Install the tracks securely to the cabinet frame and the doors. Make sure the tracks are level and aligned for smooth operation. Slide the doors into the tracks, ensuring they move freely and smoothly. Use a level to ensure that the tracks are level and aligned.
  • Bi-fold Doors: Install the hinges and the folding mechanism to the doors and the cabinet frame. Ensure the doors fold smoothly and close securely. Use a level to ensure that the doors are plumb and square.

  Finishing the Doors

  • Painting: Painting the doors provides a clean and versatile finish. Choose a paint that is suitable for the material of your doors and apply multiple coats for a durable finish. Sanding between coats will ensure a smooth finish.
  • Staining: Staining enhances the natural grain of wood doors, adding depth and warmth to the cabinet. Choose a stain color that complements your cabinet design and apply it evenly using a brush or cloth. Apply a sealant afterward to protect the stain.
  • Clear Coat: A clear coat provides a protective layer over the doors, enhancing their durability and protecting them from scratches and moisture. There are various types of clear coats available, including polyurethane, varnish, and lacquer. Choose a clear coat that is suitable for the material of your doors and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  How to build a storage cabinet with doors – The construction of a storage cabinet with doors involves meticulous planning and execution, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal. A contemporary corner TV cabinet, such as the one found here , can serve as inspiration for the design, incorporating sleek lines and minimalist aesthetics.

  This approach can be applied to the storage cabinet, resulting in a piece that seamlessly integrates with modern interiors while providing ample storage space.