How to Build an Open Kitchen Cabinet

Building your own open kitchen cabinet is a simple home improvement project. This job is simple and easy to complete. You should be able to complete your cabinet over a weekend.

Measuring Your Kitchen

Use a measuring tape to determine the actual size of your kitchen. You will want to build a cabinet that will not only fit well in the room, but that will look appropriate in the space. Determine the size of cabinet you want based on the space in your kitchen. Note the size on a piece of paper.

Choosing Your Wood

Visit your local lumber or home improvement store and speak with a professional about your plans to build an open kitchen cabinet. Take your cabinet measurement notes with you. Determine which type of wood is best for your project. Be sure to choose a type of wood that will work well with the décor of your kitchen.

Cutting Your Wood

Cut your lumber based on the cabinet size you have chosen. You will need two side pieces, one back piece, a top piece, and a bottom piece. You will also need to cut the number of shelves you want for your cabinet.

Sanding Your Wood

Use your power sander to smooth the edges of all of the pieces you have cut for your open kitchen cabinet. Be careful sanding the wood so as to prevent any accidental indentations on the surface of the wood.

Assembling the Cabinet Frame

Use your drill and screws to secure the sides pieces of your cabinet to the back. Secure the top and the bottom pieces to the back and the sides. You may want to have a friend or family member help you with the assembly of your cabinet frame.

Securing the Shelves

Use your measuring tape to determine the location of your shelves. Mark the spots with a pencil. Secure L-brackets at the marked spots. You will need four L-brackets for each shelf, two on either side of the cabinet. Be sure the brackets are installed so that the shelves will be level. Position your shelf pieces into your cabinet. Place each of the shelves over the L-brackets. Be sure the shelves are sitting in a level position.

Finishing the Open Cabinet

Cover your open kitchen cabinet with a stain or a paint finish. Read the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the stain or paint before you begin. Use your paintbrush to apply the finish to the cabinet, working in long, even strokes. Be sure to apply the finish in the same direction as the wood grain. Allow the finish to dry completely. If necessary, apply a second layer of finish and allow it to dry. Apply a coat of clear urethane over the stain or paint. Allow the urethane to dry completely. Apply a second coat and allow it to dry.