How to Build a Corner Kitchen Cabinet Sink Base

Measure your space. Creating a cabinet that's proportional to the space is key to a successful remodel. Building it too large will make the space feel closed in; if it's too small the area may feel empty. The three most important measurements for a corner cabinet are height, which is generally 40 inches; depth, which is normally 24 inches; and width, which will vary greatly.

Make a scale drawing of the space to lay out where each cabinet will sit and the size of each. There are several online sources that aid in finding the ideal layout of the kitchen (see the Resource section).

Buy lumber. There are more than a dozen types of wood commonly used for cabinets and the final decision will hinge largely on the desired look, texture and your available budget. Pine is among the most inexpensive options and is notable for its rustic, knotted appearance. Cherry and teak are deep toned and smooth textured, ideal for modern kitchen styles, but carry a high price tag. Most inexpensive types of lumber will come unfinished, which means they must be stained or painted once the cabinets are put together.

Measure then cut the lumber into the desired lengths. Use a circular saw to create two side pieces, a back, a base and a top for the corner cabinet. Generally, cabinets are 40 inches tall, 24 inches deep and have widths that range between 9 and 36 inches. A sink cabinet must be a minimum of 36 inches wide to accommodate the typical sink size, which is approximately 33 inches wide, 22 inches from front to back and between 8 and 10 inches deep. The hole for the sink must be cut after the countertops are installed to ensure a proper fit.

Begin constructing the box of the cabinet. Start with the base and add wood glue to both sides. Attach the sides and use a nail gun to add three or four nails to the joints on each side. Space the nails every few inches to provide security to the joints. Top both side pieces with a generous layer of wood glue and affix the top. Add three or four nails to the joints on either side.

Add paint or stain to the wood if necessary. Wood that's not prefinished requires a light sanding with a 300 or 320 grit paper to make way for paint or stain.

Use a roller or spray system to apply paint, as these methods will provide the most streak-free finish. Most stains require the use of a brush or rag and both options will most likely require more than one coat.

Coat all painted areas with polyurethane. Once the final layer has dried, polyurethane is either rolled or brushed on to protect the wood and paint from damage.

Install drawers or shelves. Drawer tracks are screwed into place along the sides of the cabinet, positioned so they meet the bottom of the drawer. Shelves are screwed into place with multiple screws through the back and sides of the cabinet.

Attach hardware, including hinges, knobs and drawer pulls, all of which are screwed into place. Hinge installation varies depending on the type of hinge, so following manufacturer’s instructions is essential. Most often, drawer handles are placed in the center of the drawer, while door knobs are placed in a lower corner or along one side of the cabinet face.