Building Cabinets

Building Cabinets

Recently I moved my workshop into a new space, a daunting challenge if there ever was one. Trying to figure out
how everything should be organized with the same cabinets, setups, and work tables is turning out to be more difficult
than I expected. I recently came to the conclusion that if you move to a new space, you need an entirely new
solution. Trying to make old cabinets, workbenches and tables fit into new spaces is very hard. My custom built miter
saw stand just does not fit in its new spot. My router table is just a tad too large for its new spot as well. I love my
paint cabinet, but it does not fit right next to my storage cabinet that I have for my tools. My super cool workbench
stand is 2” taller than everything else calling for a modification of everything else. So I said forget it, I am tired of the
mental journey this takes to make everything work for the sake of saving a few bucks.

Here is my solution.

I decided to build a new cabinet system that is not time sensitive. I really needed to find a solution that allowed me to
build great cabinets, be reasonably priced, looked good and did not have me trying to become an expert cabinet
builder. So I went to a new system that uses a cabinet corner post system. These corner post’s are shaped on a
shaper, made of ash and take all the guesswork out of building cabinets. They are actually rounded corners with
angles built in to allow you to add square pieces of plywood to come up with the perfect corner. The outside is
attractive with a small reveal, its rounded and best of all, there is no math. Adding a top or bottom is easy since the
posts have a ¾” dado on each end that make this a snap. If I want to add shelves, all I have to do is cut a simple
dado on the sides of my project before I put it together.

Why it’s good

Well first of all it’s easy. The only cut you need to make are cross cuts and rip cut on your table saw, that’s
it. If you don’t have a table saw you could have this done at Home Depot or Lowe’s. If you want shelves,
adding a dado on your table saw is easy as well. If you don’t have a dado blade, you can use a cleat
installation just as easily.
Second it’s inexpensive. I can buy cabinet grade plywood at my local DIY self center for $35 to $40 a sheet.
You only need three sides to make a basic cabinet, especially if your building a router table cabinet. Add that
to the cost of the corner posts and your total cost is still lower than a store bought solution.
Third, its wood and its made by you. Wood can be modified for your exclusive touch and people will surely
comment on your craftsmanship. Anything custom made or made by hand beats the preformed plastic
solutions you can buy in the store.
Lastly you can custom make the widths that you need for every tool or every workbench you need in the shop
and they all match. Try finding an odd size solution in the big box stores and you will get frustrated in a big
hurry.