In the video “A Strong, Quick, and Easy Method to Build Drawers,” Jay Bates shares a practical and efficient approach to constructing durable kitchen cabinet drawers.
He begins by examining a failed drawer, identifying its weaknesses, such as the use of MDF for sides and a butt joint construction, which contributed to its downfall, especially in a moisture-prone kitchen environment.
Jay emphasizes the importance of choosing the right materials, recommending against MDF for drawer sides due to its poor performance when exposed to moisture and its lack of strength for holding screws.
Instead, he suggests using plywood for the drawer sides and a hardwood plywood or pine plywood for the bottom panel to ensure durability and resistance to wear.
The tutorial covers the entire process of building a new drawer, starting with cutting the plywood sides, front, and back to size.
Jay points out the necessity of accounting for the drawer’s hardware and the space it will occupy, ensuring that the final product fits perfectly within the cabinet.
A key aspect of Jay’s method is cutting a dado for the bottom panel in the sides and front of the drawer, which allows for a snug fit and adds structural integrity.
He also introduces a clever technique of cutting the back piece slightly shorter to facilitate easy installation and replacement of the bottom panel if needed.
Jay opts for pocket hole screws for assembly, providing a strong mechanical connection that is easy to execute and hides the fasteners from view.
This method not only speeds up the construction process but also results in a clean, professional-looking drawer.
Throughout the video, Jay offers valuable tips, such as orienting the plywood’s bow inward for better support and ensuring the pocket holes are strategically placed to be concealed by the drawer’s false front or the cabinet’s back.
The tutorial concludes with Jay attaching the false front to the drawer, effectively covering the pocket holes and providing a seamless look.
He reflects on the misconception that dovetail joints are the only mark of quality in drawer construction, advocating for the simplicity and reliability of his method.
Jay Bates’s video is an excellent resource for anyone looking to build or repair kitchen drawers, offering straightforward instructions, practical advice, and a focus on durability and ease of construction.