DIY Cupboards and Wardrobes

Fitting your own built-in cupboards is a reasonably simple project if you have all your timber and boards cut to size.

If in any doubt about your skills, however, for tackling a project of this size, we have listed some suppliers you can get in touch with at the bottom of this page.

Here’s a guide for a basic built-in cupboard design that can be modified to any size, and additional components added as required. 

Assembling the base 

When building a base, all the sections should be joined together using wood glue and 3.5 x 40mm screws. Base supports aren't 100% percent necessary, but they do add strength to the design.

Keep the frame square 

Once you’ve built the base, add the sides and top section of the cupboard. Where existing walls or floors aren't straight, you may need to add fillers or shims to keep the frame square.

If this is going to be a completely freestanding unit, add horizontal beams along the back to keep the unit square and provide added support.

Adjust your uprights 

At this stage, you can modify the design to include more shelving and less hanging space, or vice versa.

Use corner brackets or angle braces to attach the uprights to the base and top of the frame.

Adding a top shelf 

The top shelf is optional and you can leave this out if you want to install two levels of hanging space.  

You can buy a clothes lift which can be fitted to the top level of the wardrobe. By simply pulling on the railing, you can easily access your clothing without having to stretch yourself. 

The top shelf can be mounted via corner brackets or braces, or you can use a drill to fit adjustable shelf pins. You can do the same when mounting extra shelving for shoe and other accessories. 

Installing doors 

If you’re using 16mm PG Bison SupaWood for the entire cabinet design, you don't need to make allowance for trim or fitted edging. However, if you’re working with PG Bison MelaWood, you’ll need to allow space for an edging strip between the doors. You have the choice between a 1mm and 3mm edging strip that can be fitted onto the doors. 

When it comes to built-in cupboards, Euro or concealed hinges are the most popular choice of hardware to use. To drill out holes, you’ll need a 35mm Forstner or MAD-bit. 

Door finish 

If you’re using SupaWood for assembling the built-in cupboards, you have the option to add decorative elements before painting. This can include 6mm PG Bison SupaWood frames that can be glued onto the front of the doors or moulding and trim.

Article courtesy of www.home-dzine.co.za.