Building Cheap Kitchen Cabinets

By learning to build your own cheap kitchen cabinets you can achieve a custom cabinet look without spending a lot of money. There are several steps involved in the process of building cheap kitchen cabinets. First, invest some time in planning and preparation to properly execute this project.

Tools and Materials Needed:

* Table Saw
* Jigsaw Router
* Drill
* Sander
* Sandpaper
* Clamps
* Wood Glue
* ½-inch Plywood
* 1x6 Lumber
* Dowels
* Hinges
* Knobs
* Flathead Screws
* Finishing Nails
* Wood Putty
* Drawer Slides
* Measuring Tape


Step 1: Measure the Wood

Use a measuring tape to determine the dimensions of the area in which the cabinets will be installed. Transfer the measurements to the ½-inch plywood for assembly pieces. Use the table saw to cut the back, side, top and bottom pieces for the cabinets. Download a design template from any woodworking website or that may be available on a home improvement center website.

Step 2: Assemble the Cabinet

Frame the pieces of the cabinet in accordance with the design template. Nail the pieces together using finishing nails and glue for extra strength. Use the clamps to hold the frame together while the glue dries.

Step 3: Attach a Face Frame to the Cabinet

Drill holes to the attached sides of the frame. A face frame needs to be constructed, using the 1x6 lumber. The face frame is needed to attach the doors to the cabinets. Cut 4 pieces of 1 X 6 lumber per each cabinet that is being constructed.

Attach the 1x6 pieces to form a frame using the wood screws. Drill holes into the face frame and attach it to the cabinet frame with nails (pre-drilling holes will allow for the finishing nails to go in without splitting the plywood). Use the wood putty to cover the nail holes after nailing.

Step 4: Cut the Wood Doors

Cut the plywood to create doors for the cabinet frames. The cabinet doors should have a 1/4- to 3/8-inch overhang so that they can be opened easily. Use the table saw to cut the plywood. Sand the doors to make them smooth.

Step 5: Stain the Wood

Apply wood stain and a polyurethane finish to the doors and cabinet frame prior to attaching the doors to the cabinet. Allow the first coat of stain to dry before applying the second coat. As soon as the second coat dries, apply a coat of polyurethane finish to the cabinet. Let it sit overnight before moving the cabinets for installation.

Step 6: Install the Cabinets

After the cabinets have been allowed to dry completely, attach them to the studs where they are set to be placed. Use shims to and level to properly set the cabinets into place before screwing them into the studs. Attach the doors to the cabinets to complete the job.