This project is by April Wilkerson. April has created a fantastic woodworking project that not only provides ample storage but also adds a unique aesthetic to your space.
In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of building large cabinets with slatted doors, perfect for storing your vinyl collection or any other items you wish to keep organized.
Step 1: Planning Your Cabinets
Before you start building, it’s essential to plan your cabinet design. Think about the size and configuration that will best suit your space. In this case, April opted for mirrored cabinets to create a balanced look. Remember that a large cabinet is essentially a giant box, so keep the design simple.
If you have access to a CNC machine, like April does, you can have your parts cut precisely. However, if you don’t, you can still achieve great results with a simple butt joint. For joining the pieces, wood glue and an 18-gauge nailer are recommended.
Step 2: Building the Cabinet Bodies
Once you have your design finalized, it’s time to start constructing the cabinet bodies. April used white oak plywood for the main structure, which provides durability and a nice finish. To create two mirrored cabinets, she repeated the same process for both bodies.
After cutting all the necessary pieces, assemble the cabinet bodies using wood glue and nails. Ensure everything is square and flush for a professional look. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for the rest of your project.
Step 3: Creating the Face Frame
The next step is to make a face frame for your cabinets. This frame adds strength and a finished appearance. April provides a useful tip: if you need a third hand while clamping, lightly clamp a scrap piece of wood in place to hold everything steady while you tighten your frame components.
Using solid white oak for the frame, attach it with wood glue and an 18-gauge nailer. This ensures that your frame is flush and looks seamless with the cabinet body.
Step 4: Planning for Lighting
April emphasizes the importance of planning for lighting before cutting your parts. Each cabinet will eventually have LED lights installed. To hide the wiring, she recommends creating a dado where the light bar will go, allowing for a diffuser that softens the light’s appearance.
Once the frame is complete, you can glue in the light bar and prepare the cabinets for finishing. This is also the time to putty any holes and sand the surfaces smooth.
Step 5: Finishing the Cabinets
With the cabinets fully assembled, it’s time to finish them. April chose to spray three coats of finish on the exterior, ensuring a durable and attractive surface. Meanwhile, she brushed on finish for the face frame to avoid overspray.
Make sure to use a pre-finished interior for the insides to save time and effort. This step is vital for protecting the wood and enhancing its natural beauty.
Step 6: Installing the Cabinets
For installation, April used a French cleat system. This system is effective for hanging heavy cabinets securely. The cleat is cut at a 45-degree angle, allowing the cabinet to rest securely on the wall.
Before hanging, ensure you locate the wall studs to provide a strong anchor for your cleats. Install one cleat at the top and another at the bottom of your cabinet for stability.
Step 7: Attaching the Doors
Now that the cabinets are installed, it’s time to attach the doors. April designed her doors to open towards the center, a unique feature due to the sloped ceiling in her loft. This step adds a finishing touch to your cabinets.
Using standoff blocks to mount the hinges ensures the doors are inset and level. This detail adds to the overall polished look of the cabinets.
Step 8: Adding Shelves and Organizing Storage
Finally, it’s time to place the shelves inside the cabinets. April designed her cabinets with vinyl storage in mind, so she used albums to determine the spacing of the shelves. This customization allows for easy access to her vinyl collection.
For the upper shelves, April created custom holders to display albums while keeping the lower shelves functional. This design maximizes storage while allowing for an aesthetically pleasing display.
Conclusion
Building these large DIY cabinets with slatted doors is a rewarding project that enhances your home’s storage and style. April Wilkerson has provided a clear and detailed guide to help you through the process. With some materials, tools, and patience, you too can create beautiful cabinets that meet your storage needs.
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