How to Make a DVD Storage Cabinet

These days, it's not uncommon to have a massive DVD collection. Though the idea of movies stored on physical media is constantly being assaulted by newer, sleeker and sexier ways of playing media, the DVD isn't going away anytime soon. But what to do with the hundreds of DVDs that you've accumulated over the past few years? If you're a bit handy, you can build a storage cabinet that not only is extremely functional, but also amounts to an easy, fun project to be tackled on a Sunday afternoon.

Things You'll Need

• Wood
• Nails
• Saw
• Hammer
• Drill
• Tape measure
• Level
• Hinges
• Handles
• Paint
• Paintbrushes
• Patching material
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper

Instructions

1. 

   Plan where you want to build the unit. If you don't have a logical space close to your entertainment area, look for a location that isn't intrusive, hard to configure or difficult to access. When choosing material, look for a high-quality pine.

2. 

   Measure carefully. DVD cases are generally a standard size (7.5 inches tall by 5.5 inches deep), so keep that in mind when building the case. You'll want to add at least 1 more inch of depth to the cabinet to accommodate odd-sized cases, and at least 2 inches of height for the same reason, as well as being able to get your fingers inside to easily remove a DVD.

3. 

   Start by building the foundations, the top, bottom and sides. Make sure they're strong enough to support the entire DVD library.

4. 

   Install the back once the frame is built. This should be a nice fit, but don't get too hung up on neatness, as the back will be obscured by the DVDs as well as the door (if you elect to include one). Don't make the cabinet too deep, as this will make things harder to organize.

5. 

   Place the shelves in, and use a support every 12 inches. Use standard brackets; or, for a "built-in" look, build the shelves using a "tongue and groove" pattern, which adds support as well as eliminating the need for brackets.

6. 

   Install the doors. This is the hardest part of the entire process. If you're squeamish, you can buy cabinet doors from any number of furniture companies, and build the cabinets to the dimensions of the doors. Use high-grade hinges and handles.

7. 

   Finish by filling in any holes, sanding and painting.

Tips & Warnings

• The shelves and doors should be of high-quality wood. The sides and back can be of a lower grade. Plan for the future, and build for the collection you want, not the one you have.

• Make sure there's enough support to hold everything. Always wear eye protection when working with power tools.