Do you have an empty corner in your kitchen begging to be filled? If so, why not take the opportunity to build a beautiful corner cabinet? With patience and guidance from these easy-to-follow instructions, you can easily construct a stunning piece of furniture that will transform your kitchen into a showpiece. Not only does this project involve creating something useful and attractive – but it’s also surprisingly simple to achieve with minimal time or expense.
Corner cabinet construction is an attainable project for most DIY enthusiasts. With some basic carpentry skills and a day or two of your time, you’ll have the perfect cabinet to show off your kitchen treasures.
Let us guide you through the steps needed on how to build corner cabinet.
What Will You Need?
Before you get started, ensure you have the following items:
- Materials: ¾ inch plywood, screws and glue
- Tools: a drill, circular saw, table saw, and clamps.
- Measuring tape and ruler.
Once you have these essentials, you can begin constructing the cabinet.
8 Easy Steps on How to Build Corner Cabinet
Step 1: Determine the Cabinet Dimensions
Begin by measuring the height and width of your chosen corner space. This will help you determine the dimensions of your cabinet. For example, if the height is 6 feet and the width is 3 feet, your cabinet should be built to those dimensions.
Step 2: Cut the Plywood
Based on the measurements taken, cut the plywood to create the cabinet’s back, sides, bottom, and shelves. Let’s take the example of a corner cabinet with a height of 6 feet and a width of 3 feet. You will need to cut two pieces for the sides, each measuring 6 feet in height and 1.5 feet in width. For the back, you will need a piece that is 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Remember, always ensure you measure twice and cut once to avoid any costly mistakes.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabinet
Now that you’ve cut your plywood, it’s time to start assembling your corner cabinet. Begin with the back and sides. Apply wood glue on the edges of the back piece that will be attached to the sides. Then, place the side pieces against the glued edges of the back piece, forming a corner. Use your clamps to hold these pieces together. Once they’re in place, drill screws into the sides, securing them to the back. Repeat this process for the bottom piece, attaching it to the bottom edges of the side and back pieces. Remember, it’s essential to ensure that all pieces are square for a well-built cabinet.
Step 4: Install the Shelves
Once the cabinet’s basic structure is secure, it’s time to install the shelves. Determine where you want your shelves to be located within the cabinet – spacing them evenly can provide a balanced look and functional storage space. Apply wood glue on the edges of the shelf pieces that will be in contact with the sides of the cabinet.
Insert and secure the shelves by clamping them to the sides, and then drill screws into the sides to firmly hold the shelves in place. Remember to use a level to ensure your shelves are perfectly horizontal. Repeat this process for each shelf until you’ve completed the internal structure of your corner cabinet.
Step 5: Sand and Finish the Cabinet
Once you’ve finished installing the shelves, it’s time to polish your corner cabinet. Use sandpaper thoroughly on all cabinet surfaces to smooth any rough edges and even out any irregularities. Be sure to wipe off any dust that results from sanding.
Then, apply your chosen finish – this could be paint, varnish, or stain, depending on your preference and the look you’re aiming for. Apply the finish evenly using a paintbrush, starting from the top and working your way down to ensure a smooth and uniform coat. Allow the finish to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once dry, your corner cabinet is ready for use!
Step 6: Attach the Door
Now that your corner cabinet structure is complete, it’s time to create and attach the door. Start by measuring the opening of your cabinet to determine the dimensions of your door. Cut a piece of plywood to these dimensions.
Attach hinges to the door, typically at the top and bottom. Then, align the door with the cabinet opening and attach the other side of the hinges to the cabinet. Ensure the door opens and closes smoothly. Now, install a handle or knob in a convenient location on the door for easy access.
Step 7: Final Touches
The last step in building your corner cabinet is adding the final touches. Depending on your preference, add a lock to the door for increased security or install magnetic catches to keep the door firmly closed when not in use. Additionally, consider adding decorative trims or moldings to enhance the cabinet’s aesthetic appeal.
Lastly, don’t forget to install your cabinet securely to the wall, using suitable wall anchors and screws, to ensure your new cabinet is both safe and stable. And voila! You have successfully built your corner cabinet. Enjoy the fruit of your labor and the unique aesthetic appeal it brings to your kitchen space.
Step 8: Maintenance and Care
Now that your corner cabinet is in place, regular maintenance and care are necessary to ensure longevity. Dust your cabinet regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that might scratch or damage the surface. For stubborn stains or spills, a mild soap and warm water solution can be used, but ensure the area is dried thoroughly afterward. Annual inspections are recommended to check for loose screws or hinges that may need tightening. With these simple upkeep steps, your corner cabinet will serve you for years.
By following these eight easy steps, you can quickly build your own functional and aesthetically pleasing corner cabinet. Get creative and customize it to fit your specific needs and preferences.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Planning is Paramount: Before you start building your corner cabinet, make sure you have a detailed plan. This includes measurements, materials, and a step-by-step guide of the entire process.
- Quality Wood: Choose high-quality wood for your corner cabinet. It will significantly enhance the durability and appearance of your cabinet. Consider woods like oak, maple, or cherry for their strength and fine finish.
- Consider Adjustable Shelves: Incorporate adjustable shelves into your design. This flexibility allows you to adjust storage space according to your needs, making the cabinet more functional.
- Use the Right Tools: Having the correct tools at hand will make the building process smoother. Essential tools include a saw, drill, screws, hinges, levels, and sandpaper.
- Finishing Touches Matter: Remember to underestimate the power of finishing touches. Proper sanding, staining, and sealing will enhance the look of your cabinet and protect it from wear and tear.
With these additional tips and tricks, you will be on your way to building a beautiful and functional corner cabinet. Remember to take your time, pay attention to detail, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments as needed.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoiding Safety Precautions: Never ignore safety measures while working with tools. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential injuries.
- Not Checking Measurements: Ensure to double-check your measurements before you start cutting your wood. A small error in measurement can lead to a significant waste of materials and time.
- Using Inferior Materials: Neglecting the quality of materials, especially screws and hinges, can lead to a weaker structure. Always opt for high-quality materials to ensure longevity.
- Ignoring Leveling: Failing to ensure proper leveling can result in a tilted or unstable cabinet. Use a level tool to ensure all your parts are even and aligned.
- Rushing the Process: Rushing through the process can lead to mistakes. Take your time, follow your plan carefully, and ensure each step is completed correctly before moving on to the next.
Avoiding these common mistakes will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.
Which Way Should a Corner Cabinet Open?
The direction in which a corner cabinet should open depends on the layout and design of your kitchen or room. Here are a few things to consider when deciding which way your corner cabinet should open:
- Functionality: The primary purpose of a corner cabinet is to maximize storage space in a tight area. Consider how you will use the cabinet and which side would be most convenient for you to access.
- Traffic Flow: If your kitchen or room has a lot of foot traffic, it’s best to have the cabinet open on the side so that it won’t hinder movement.
- Adjacent Appliances: Consider other appliances or items near the corner cabinet and how they might affect its opening direction. For example, if a refrigerator is next to the cabinet, you may want it to open away from the fridge for easier access.
Ultimately, the direction in which a corner cabinet opens is up to personal preference and what works best for your specific space. Consider all factors before making a decision.
Conclusion
After all the hard work and effort put in, the corner cabinet of your dreams is now built! With just a few simple steps on how to build corner cabinet, you were able to take a pile of wood and create something beautiful. While building can be tricky at times, it’s important to remember that it’s completely worth the time and labor invested.
Now that your corner cabinet is finished, why not show off your handiwork and decorate it with accumulating knick-knacks or small flea-market finds? There’s no better feeling than knowing you made something remarkable with your own two hands.
So don’t wait any longer – start making, exploring, and learning during what could become a wonderfully rewarding hobby! Take pride in the knowledge you’ve gained along the way and look back fondly on this project as an example of success
