Entertainment Center Building Instructions

Measure the available space. The average entertainment center is between 6 and 7 feet tall, and it features a wide selection of additions and arrangements. These additions will often expand the width and height of the final product, so knowing the amount of available space is essential to a successful build.

Plan the layout. Start with base cabinets, either premanufactured or built by hand, that measure between 30 and 34 inches tall, and add from there. If you're building lower cabinets from scratch, measure and cut the lumber with a circular saw. Two side pieces, a back, a top, a bottom and shelves are necessary for most layouts. Use wood glue on joints, secure them with nails and reinforce with screws.

Paint or stain the wood. New wood will require little preparation save for a light sanding before you apply paint or stain. Use a sprayer or roller to apply paint and a brush or lint-free rag for stain. Once the top coat has dried thoroughly, apply two or three coats of polyurethane for protection against wear and tear.

Place a ¾-inch sheet of plywood over lower cabinets once the paint has dried. Paint this piece the same color and in the same way as the lower cabinets to create a clean, uniform look. This layer will provide a flat, even surface for the television, while the lower shelves provide space for storage of electronics.

Drill holes in the cabinet backs. Make them at least an inch or 2 in diameter, wide enough to make accessing wiring as convenient as possible.

Add crown molding. A piece of crown molding along the top of the cabinet will provide a cleaner, more polished look to the front of the cabinets. Use nails or wood glue for the molding to stick properly. Finish by adding hardware to the cabinet doors.