This project was built and designed by Jay Bates. It’s a clean and affordable solution for anyone looking to maximize storage space inside their cabinets using custom-built slide-out trays.
These trays are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or shop cabinets where accessibility is limited. With only basic tools and common materials, this project can be tackled by beginners and still meet the needs of more advanced woodworkers.
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Why Slide-Out Trays Are Worth the Effort
Fixed cabinet shelves can be difficult to use efficiently, especially when storing smaller items. Slide-out trays solve this problem by giving you full access to items at the back without having to dig through everything.
Jay designed these trays to be easy to install and sized to fit standard cabinets. They help organize your space and bring more functionality to areas you use every day.
Tools and Materials Needed
This project uses common materials including 1×2 boards, plywood, and standard drawer slides. The total material cost is around $10 per tray, making this a cost-effective way to upgrade storage.
You’ll need a drill, brad nailer, circular or miter saw, square, and measuring tape. These are tools most woodworkers already have in their shop, and the build doesn’t require any specialty jigs or hardware.
Planning and Measuring for Your Space
Before making any cuts, Jay recommends taking careful measurements inside your cabinet. You’ll need to account for the thickness of the drawer slides and the size of the opening to ensure the tray fits and slides freely.
Using a square, mark the bottom of your cabinet with guide lines to help align the support rails. These marks will keep the entire tray aligned and centered once installed.
Cutting and Building the Frame
Start by cutting two support rails to match the full depth of the cabinet. These pieces are mounted vertically along the inside bottom of the cabinet and will support the tray and slide mechanism.
After pre-drilling holes, the supports are screwed into place using long wood screws. Jay recommends screws that are at least two inches long for strong anchoring.
The front cross piece of the frame is cut slightly shorter than the cabinet opening. This allows clearance for the drawer slides to move freely without obstruction. The tray depth is adjusted depending on how much usable space you want.
Assembling the Tray Itself
The tray is made from plywood and edge-trimmed with thin boards to give it structure and cover the raw plywood edges. Jay attaches the longer sides first using wood glue and brad nails, then follows up with the shorter ends.
This method creates a strong box while keeping the plywood flat and square. It also hides exposed edges, giving the tray a more polished appearance.
The result is a lightweight but durable tray that’s perfect for holding everyday items like toiletries, spices, or tools.
Installing the Drawer Slides
Once the tray is assembled, it’s time to attach the drawer slides. Jay installs one side of the slide to the support rail inside the cabinet and the other side to the bottom edge of the tray.
Each slide should be flush with the front edge of the cabinet, allowing the tray to extend fully when pulled. A longer drill bit helps reach through both tray and support rail if needed.
This installation method provides smooth motion and consistent alignment across multiple trays if you’re building more than one.
Additional Tips and Cost Breakdown
Jay notes that each tray cost about $10 to build, depending on the cost of plywood and drawer slides in your area. While this setup works great for lighter-duty cabinets, you could upgrade the slides for heavy-duty use.
He also mentions that a smaller cabinet, like one under a bathroom sink, doesn’t need deep trays. Shallow versions work just as well and are easier to install in tight spaces.
Even if you have little experience with cabinetry, this project is approachable. Jay’s method focuses on simplicity, functionality, and repeatability.
Why This Project Is a Smart Upgrade
Slide-out trays are one of the most practical improvements you can make in a home. They offer better organization, reduce clutter, and save time when accessing stored items.
They also make cabinets more accessible for kids, older adults, or anyone with mobility concerns. And because they’re custom-sized, they always fit your space better than store-bought inserts.
A Straightforward Project with Big Payoff
Jay’s approach shows that great results don’t require fancy tools or high-end materials. A little planning, some careful measuring, and basic joinery can produce a long-lasting improvement to your home.
Whether you’re building just one tray or planning a full cabinet overhaul, this is a project worth trying.
Please support Jay by purchasing his plans here: Jay’s Custom Creations.