How to Build Different Types of Food Cupboards

Standard Shelf Construction

• 1

  Lay out two 1/2-by-18-by-36-inch boards with the help of an assistant. Adjust the boards, which are to be the side boards of the cupboard, so they are on their long, narrow sides and are parallel to each other about 2 feet apart. Maneuver a 1/2-by-18-by-24-inch board into place against one set of side board ends. Line up the ends of the new board, which will be the top board of the cupboard, with the outside surfaces of the side boards.

• 2

  Drill down through the top board and into each side board, making four evenly spaced holes in each side board. Position 1 1/2-inch wood screws in each hole and fasten them securely. Repeat on the other end of the side boards to install a 1/2-by-18-by-24-inch bottom board.

• 3

  Set a 1/2-by-24-by-37-inch board against the rectangular cupboard frame to serve as the rear board. Make evenly spaced holes every 8 inches around the board and into the adjoining frame boards using a drill. Insert a 1 1/2-inch wood screw in each hole and tighten them securely.

• 4

  Turn the cupboard over so its open side is facing up. Put another 1/2-by-24-by-37-inch board on top of the cupboard frame. Position two side-mount cabinet hinges between the door board and the frame, lifting the door board if necessary for clear hinge access. Mark the placement of the screw holes and drill into those holes to make paths for the screws. Attach the hinges to the cupboard door and cupboard frame using 1/2-inch wood screws.

• 5

  Position a 1/2-by-18-by-23-inch shelf board within the cupboard in a preferred shelving position. Mark each side board with the shelf board's location. Drill two holes at the level of the marking into each side board. Insert the pegs into the drilled holes and set the shelf board on top of the pegs.

Alternative Shelf Customizations

• 6

  Decrease the dimensions of the cupboard to 3-by-12-by-24 inches to make a spice cupboard. Cut the door in two to make two long, tall doors for the spice cupboard. Store all spice jars and whole spices within the cupboard. Hang the cupboard on the wall via screws through the back board and into wall studs or drywall anchors.

• 7

  Build sections of the cabinet out of pegboard or other wood, which allows airflow for storage of potatoes and other root vegetables. Add this wood for a lower section of a larger cabine.

• 8

  Strengthen the storage capability of the cabinet by using boards with a thickness of 1 inch or 3/4 inch for secure storage of home-canned goods. Shorten the horizontal boards to provide additional strength.