The video “$11,000 Cabinet” is by Jonny Builds. In this project, Jonny takes viewers through the intricate process of building a stunning walnut tambour wooden rolling door record cabinet. The cabinet features a 3D carved rolling wood door that creates a mesmerizing effect, making the wood appear to flow like water.
Materials and Initial Setup
Jonny begins the project with a single $1,200, 8-foot slab of walnut, which he sources locally. The cabinet frame will be constructed from dimensional walnut boards, while the standout feature will be the tambour door, which he plans to carve with a unique 3D pattern.
Understanding Tambour Doors
As Jonny explains, tambour doors, often referred to as rolling wooden doors, are a key feature in this cabinet. He humorously shares a story about a classmate named Seth, who was known for his pedantic corrections. This anecdote serves to emphasize that whether one calls it a tambour or a rolling wooden door, the terminology is less important than the craftsmanship involved.
Creating the Cabinet Structure
Before constructing the door, Jonny focuses on assembling the cabinet’s main structure. He glues up panels for the top, bottom, and the dividers inside the cabinet. The client has requested ample storage for records, leading Jonny to include seven dividers for optimal organization.
Attention to Detail with Book Matching
To enhance the aesthetic, Jonny opts for book-matched glue-ups, ensuring that the grain pattern aligns beautifully across the panels. This attention to detail is akin to placing hidden Easter eggs within the build, elevating the craftsmanship to a higher level.
Using Technology and Hand Tools
Even though Jonny embraces modern technology, like CNC machines, he also appreciates the satisfaction of using hand tools. He shares his excitement about using a new set of Veritas hand planes gifted by his wife, Katie. This blend of old and new techniques showcases the versatility in woodworking.
Building the Tambour Door
As the project progresses, Jonny prepares to create the tambour door. He meticulously cuts the walnut slab into over 100 strips, which will be used for the door. To ensure the continuity of the grain, he numbers each piece, a process reminiscent of his high school experiences with Seth.
Crafting the 3D Design
Jonny builds a jig to hold the tambour strips together before applying canvas and glue. This jig keeps the strips tightly packed, minimizing cleanup later. After the glue sets, he places the strips back on the CNC for the intricate carving of the 3D pattern.
Final Assembly and Challenges
As the cabinet nears completion, Jonny faces the challenge of fitting the tambour doors into the cabinet. He shares a tense moment where he inadvertently cuts the back of the cabinet to create an entry slot for the doors. Despite the stress, this improvisation ultimately proves successful.
Finishing Touches
After hours of sanding and finishing, Jonny applies Rubio Monocoat to the cabinet. He emphasizes the importance of pre-finishing parts to ensure a clean look once assembled. The final reveal showcases the cabinet’s stunning design, with the 3D pattern of the tambour door flowing seamlessly around the edges.
Conclusion: A Personal Touch
In a heartfelt twist, Jonny reveals that the client for this beautiful cabinet is actually himself and his family, ensuring that this piece will be cherished in their home for years to come. His journey through challenges, creativity, and personal anecdotes makes this project not just about woodworking, but about the joy of creating something meaningful.
