How to Build Cabinets for Dummies

Determine the use and location of your cabinets. Depending on this, you can determine the dimensions of the cabinets.

Cut the plywood into two 12-by-20-inch boards, two 16-by-20-inch boards, and three 12-by-17-inch boards.

Glue two of the three 12-by-17-inch boards together to form the base of the cabinet. Clamp all four corners to ensure the wood sticks. This will form a one-inch thick base.

Position one 12-by-20-inch sideboard over the base and screw the two pieces together, using one one-inch screw in each corner and three in the middle. Repeat this on the other side.

Place the 16-by-20-inch backboard between the sideboards at the rear of the base and secure with five screws in the same manner. Increase the strength of the cabinet by using two corner brackets on each side, securing each with 1/2-inch screws.

Secure the top of the cabinet by screwing in the remaining 12-by-17-inch board over the side and backboards using one-inch screws.

Attach a latch to the second 16-by-20-inch board. If the latch should go at the top, position the latch at the corner of the 16-inch side, running parallel to the 20-inch side, with a hook lined up on the cabinet top at the same distance from the edge.

Put two small door hinges on the side of the 16-by-20-inch door board, on the opposite end of the latch, and screw them into place on the side of the cabinet. With the door closed, the hinges should be flat on the side of the cabinet and the latch should easily slide into position. Screw a handle to the outside of the door.

Stain or paint the cabinet to your liking. For additional cabinets, repeat the process.