This project was designed and built by Steve Ramsey from Woodworking for Mere Mortals, and it’s perfect for maximizing space while keeping your essentials organized. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps to build a tall, skinny cabinet that fits perfectly in any narrow space.
Materials Needed:
- 3/4″ plywood
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Wood finish (optional)
Tools Required:
- Drill
- Saw (circular or table saw)
- Measuring tape
- Square
- Clamps
Step 1: Plan Your Cabinet Design
Start by assessing the space in your laundry room. The goal is to create a cabinet that reaches from the floor to the ceiling, providing maximum storage. Measure the area to ensure the cabinet will fit around existing plumbing and electrical outlets. Remember to account for baseboard clearance.
Step 2: Cut Your Plywood
Since the cabinet will be eight feet high, consider cutting the plywood into two sections for easier handling. This also helps to avoid purchasing a full sheet of plywood if you have some available in your shop.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabinet
Assemble the cabinet sections on your workbench to avoid crawling around on the floor. Begin by gluing and tacking the pieces together. Make sure to face the rabbit joint upward, as this is where the back will be attached.
Step 4: Drill Shelf Pin Holes
Before installing the back of the cabinet, drill the holes for the shelf pins. This step is crucial, as it can be challenging to do once the back is attached. Trust me, I’ve learned this lesson the hard way!
Step 5: Install the Back
Once the shelf pin holes are drilled, attach the back of the cabinet. This adds stability and allows you to secure the cabinet to the wall later on.
Step 6: Final Assembly and Finishing Touches
After putting all the pieces together, take a step back and check for any adjustments needed. If everything fits well, you can finish the cabinet with paint or stain to match your laundry room decor.
Step 7: Install the Cabinet
Finally, secure the cabinet to the wall for safety and stability. Make sure that it is level and fits snugly in its designated space.