How to Make Storage Cabinets

In any home, storage space seems to be at a premium. If you are in need of some storage space but are looking to save money, try building your own cabinets. Building cabinets on your own allows you to find the cheapest lumber, customize the cabinet fit and choose any stain or paint colors. Follow a few simple steps, and you'll have your extra cabinet space at the right price.

Things You'll Need

• Two pieces of 3/4-inch plywood that are 8 feet tall by 3 feet wide
• Eight pieces of 3/4-inch plywood that are 2 feet by 3 feet
• One piece of 3/4-inch plywood that is 8 feet tall by 2 feet, 1.5 inches wide
• One piece of 3/4-inch plywood that is 7 feet, 10.75 inches tall by 2 feet, 1.5 inches wide
• Three interior hinges
• Handle
• Drill
• Wood Screws
• Carpenter's Square
• Level

Instructions

1. Create a rectangular frame with two of the 2-foot by 3-foot pieces and the two 8-foot by 3-foot pieces. One of the 2-foot by 3-foot pieces should be even with the top edges of the longer pieces and the other 2-foot by 3-foot piece should be offset 1 inch from the bottom edge. This is the frame for the cabinet. Make sure all edges are square and screw together.

2. Measure up 1 foot from the top of the bottom shelf (the piece that is offset 1-inch) in the interior of the cabinet. This is the location of the bottom of the second shelf. Place another piece of 2-foot by 3-foot plywood inside the frame at this location, make sure it is square, and screw it in. Repeat this for all the shelves, measuring up 1 foot from the top of the shelf below it and placing the next shelf at this height so all of your shelves have 1 foot of space (except for the top shelf, which will have 1.5 feet of space).

3. Place the piece of plywood, which is 8 feet tall by 2 feet, 1.5 inches wide, over one side of the cabinet frame. It should cover the cabinet completely. This is the back of the cabinet. Screw this piece into place along the perimeter of the back.

4. Add hinges to the interior of the cabinet. There should be a hinge 1 inch from the top and bottom of the cabinet and one in the center.

5. Attach the remaining piece of plywood to the hinges via the screws for the cabinet door. Place the handle on the opposite side from the hinges

Tips & Warnings

• Even though plywood is inexpensive and durable, you should price out other types of wood at your lumber store. Often a cabinet made out of cedar or pine matches the decor of the room nicely.

• Make sure all pieces are level and square or the cabinet may become unstable.

References

• How To Build Garage Cabinets
• Cabinets Woodworking Plans