How to Build Simple Bottom Kitchen Cupboards

Measure the space. Proportion is essential to successful kitchen remodeling. The three basic measurements are height, width and depth. Standard cabinets run 24 inches deep and 40 inches tall; their widths vary greatly. Custom designs allow you to adapt these measurements as needed.

Create a scale drawing to outline the style and location of cabinets. A bit of research online or with design books will help you find the correct layout for the space.

Purchase lumber. Less expensive wood will most likely come unfinished so you'll need to paint or stain the cabinets after you build them.

Measure the wood, then cut it to the desired lengths, using a circular saw. Cut two side pieces, a back, a top and a bottom for each cabinet.

Start the construction of the cabinet box with the base. Glue both edges and affix the sides. Use a nail gun to add nails to secure the joints. Add glue to both side pieces and attach the top. Finish by adding nails to both sides for additional support.

Coat all joints with wood glue and, once dry, add additional support by nailing each joint with a nail gun.

Finish the wood before installing the cabinets. Sand all surfaces lightly to create a slightly rough surface for new paint or stain.

Use a roller or sprayer to apply paint or a brush and rag to apply stain. Most products require more than one layer for best results.

Apply polyurethane, a clear coat that will protect cabinet wood and paint from damage, including water, stains and scratches.

Attach drawer tracks or shelving. Drawer tracks require marking level lines along both sides of the cabinets and screwing in the rails. You must position the rail to meet the bottom of the drawer. Finish by installing the metal sliders into their slot, aligning them with the back edge of the drawer face. Install shelves with screws through the back and sides of the cabinet.

Install finished cabinet faces. This includes all hardware: hinges, knobs and door pulls. You screw all of them into place with a drill. Hinge application will vary a bit depending on the type, so follow manufacturer’s directions closely for best results. Measuring is key to placing door and drawer knobs to sit uniformly. Drawer pulls are usually located on the center of the drawer face, while door knobs sit in a lower corner or along one side.