Create custom cabinet drawers to make your kitchen stand out
If you are short on storage space and want to make the most of your cabinets, learning how to build cabinet drawers is a great way to do it. Drawers can provide lots of well-organized and out-of-sight storage potential. Plus, if you’re searching for a manageable DIY task, building your own drawers can be an affordable and rewarding project.
When sanding your cabinets, use medium- to coarse-grit sandpaper (#40 to #80 grit) to remove paint, finishes, and flaws in the wood. Use fire-grit sandpaper (#100 to #200 grit) to prepare cabinets for painting or staining.
To prep for building cabinet drawers, you’ll need to choose whether you want inset or overlay drawer fronts, as this choice affects the drawer's length. The difference between inset versus overlay cabinets is that insets are set within the frame, while overlays extend beyond the frame. You’ll also want to choose the type of drawer slides you want, whether side-mounted or under-mount, as these will determine the drawer’s width and have different instructions to follow per the manufacturer.
First, measure the width and depth of the cabinet where you plan to install the drawers. Begin by measuring the width of the drawer opening in your project. Next, subtract the space required for your drawer slides, typically ½ inch each, adding up to 1 inch total. Ensure your measurements are accurate, as these dimensions will determine the size of your drawer components.
Next, calculate the dimensions for your drawer box inserts based on your cabinet dimensions. Below is a quick breakdown of how to figure out the appropriate dimensions for each piece of the drawer box.
The side pieces should match the length of the drawer slides and should be at least 1 inch shorter than the depth of your cabinet.
The front and back measurements are determined by the width of your cabinet's opening, the thickness of the drawer slides, and the side pieces. To find these dimensions, use the following formula: Cabinet opening width – the thickness of the drawer slides = the total width of the drawer box. Then, subtract the thickness of both side pieces to determine the front and back width.
The size of the bottom of the drawer depends on your chosen assembly method. It’s a good idea to start with a slightly larger size and trim the bottom to fit once the drawer box is assembled. For most projects, ¼-inch plywood is recommended, but if you plan to store heavy items in your drawer, consider using ½-inch thickness for added strength.
Using your calculated dimensions, cut the following components using a circular saw:
Two side pieces
One back piece
One front piece
One bottom piece
Don’t forget to don protective gear like goggles or glasses and gloves when completing this step of the project.
If desired, create dadoes (grooves) along the inside edges of the side, front, and back pieces to align the bottom panel and strengthen the drawer. The dado should be the same width and depth as your ¼-inch or ½-inch plywood.
Assemble the drawer by attaching the side pieces to the front and back pieces. Use wood glue and wood screw to secure them. Ensure the corners are square, and use clamps to hold the pieces together while the glue dries for at least an hour.
If you created a dado, slide the bottom piece of plywood into it. Otherwise, attach the bottom of the drawer using nails or wood screws.
Next, attach your drawer slides to the cabinet frame per the manufacturer’s instructions. When working with overlay drawer fronts, ensure your slides are flush with the front of the cabinet. For inset drawer fronts, install the slides at a distance equal to the thickness of your front inset from the front of the cabinet.
Attach the other part of the drawer slides to the sides of the drawer. Carefully slide the drawer into the cabinet frame, making sure it’s a smooth fit.
Finally, pull the drawer back out and use very fine (150- to 220-grit) sandpaper to smooth any rough edges. Finish the drawers as desired with paint, stain, or varnish to enhance and protect the wood.
Learning how to build cabinet drawers can be a money-saving endeavor, as you’ll only need to invest money into a few basic supplies and materials. Still, whether you’re learning how to replace a cabinet drawer or build a completely new set, the process can be a time-consuming DIY project. It also requires precise cuts and measurements, which can be challenging for a beginner with limited woodworking experience. A local cabinet maker can simplify the process and ensure you get beautiful, durable drawers that last.
Hardwoods such as cherry, walnut, and maple are excellent options for building cabinet drawers. These are exceptionally durable woods that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. Additionally, plywood is a common choice for drawer bottoms and sides as it is stable, cost-effective, and available in various thicknesses. Ultimately, the choice of wood depends on your preferences, budget, and the overall aesthetic you want for your cabinet drawers.
The cost to install soft-close drawers professionally typically ranges between $40 to $100 per drawer. If you’re handy and comfortable with the DIY, you can also purchase the soft-close inserts yourself, which usually cost between $15 to $25 per drawer. Either way, soft-close mechanisms can eliminate the possibility of slamming and help extend the lifespan of your drawer, so they can be well worth the investment.
If you’re dealing with a drawer that’s sticky or askew, learning how to fix drawer slides is relatively simple. Start by removing the drawer from the cabinet and examining the slides for any damage or broken parts. If they appear intact, clean the sides and corresponding tracks with a hot, damp cloth. Lubricate the slides (bar soap works in a pinch) and tighten the screws. Finally, reinsert the drawer, making sure it glides effortlessly along the slides. Test the drawer to ensure it opens and closes smoothly, making any necessary adjustments for proper alignment.
