This project was built and designed by Chris from A Glimpse Inside. It combines tool organization with mobility, providing a clean and efficient upgrade for any workshop setup.
If you’ve ever dealt with a clunky stand or lacked drawer space for accessories, this cabinet build is a worthwhile solution. It brings together practicality, durability, and a clean finish all in one custom piece.
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Why Build a Cabinet for a Drill Press?
Many workshops rely on outdated or makeshift stands that offer little in terms of storage or stability. Chris had been using an old A-frame base for years, and while functional, it didn’t match the capabilities of his upgraded tools.
The arrival of a new Jet 12-inch drill press sparked the motivation to finally build something better. This new build not only supports the tool but adds smart storage and easier mobility.
Materials and Initial Prep
Chris selected double-sided laminate plywood for this build. The material is both durable and attractive, offering a clean appearance and strong resistance to wear.
Large sheets were cut down using a circular saw and straight edge to ensure precise and manageable parts. A dust collection system was used during cutting, which made cleanup easier and improved visibility throughout the build.
Assembling the Cabinet Carcass
With pieces cut to size, Chris began assembling the main body of the cabinet. A quick-setting adhesive helped bond the laminate surfaces, while screws provided mechanical strength.
To keep everything square during the build, he used 90-degree corner clamps. This made alignment easier and ensured a solid, straight cabinet structure from the start.
Constructing and Installing Drawers
Chris built six drawers using half-inch Baltic birch for the bottoms and pre-cut sides. A stop block setup helped ensure uniformity across all the drawer parts.
There was a small mistake in the measurements early on, which led to the drawers being cut slightly too long. Fortunately, this was caught and fixed quickly, showing the importance of double-checking dimensions.
Installing the Drawer Slides
Full-extension Accuride slides were used to mount the drawers into the cabinet. These slides allow easy access to all parts of each drawer, which is especially helpful for storing tools and accessories.
Chris used spacer blocks to align the slides consistently on both sides of the cabinet. One helpful feature of these particular slides is their micro-adjustment capability, which lets you fine-tune the drawer fronts after installation.
Adding Drawer Faces and Hardware
For the drawer faces, Chris cut down more laminate plywood to match the rest of the cabinet. Using a drywall square, he marked the center of each panel for precise handle placement.
The drawer pulls were installed evenly and cleanly, completing the look of the front of the cabinet. This final step helped tie the whole build together visually.
Making the Cabinet Mobile
To allow the cabinet to be moved around the workshop, Chris attached heavy-duty locking casters to the bottom. These wheels made it easy to reposition the drill press and its storage as needed.
The ability to move the unit freely was a major improvement over the previous setup. It allowed for more flexibility depending on the task or layout of the workspace.
Safety Considerations
While working with laminate, Chris made sure to break all sharp edges. This not only made the cabinet safer to use but also gave it a cleaner, more finished appearance.
It’s a good reminder that safety goes beyond power tools and includes small finishing steps that reduce risks during everyday use.
The Final Result
The finished drill press cabinet looks great and functions even better. It holds the new drill press securely while offering organized drawer space for bits, clamps, and other accessories.
Chris’s upgraded setup shows how thoughtful design can lead to better workflow and cleaner storage. It’s a rewarding project that brings both form and function to the shop.
Want to Watch the Full Build?
Please support Chris by visiting his website here: https://www.aglimpseinside.org