Are you looking for a way to maximize the storage space in your home? If so, building a corner cabinet is a great solution. Not only does it provide additional storage, but it also adds a unique design element to any room. In this guide, we will discuss how to build a corner cabinet plans with step-by-step instructions and detailed plans.
Building a corner cabinet can transform an unused corner into a functional and stylish space in any room. A corner cabinet can be a perfect solution if you’re looking to add extra storage in your kitchen, bathroom, or living area.
From choosing the right materials to the final touches, we’ll cover everything you need to ensure your project is a success. Get ready to turn that empty corner into a useful and eye-catching feature of your home.
What are the Benefits of Building a Corner Cabinet?
A corner cabinet offers several benefits, making it an excellent addition to any home. Some of these advantages include:
- Maximizing Space: The most obvious benefit of building a corner cabinet is that it efficiently utilizes a room’s often overlooked and underutilized corners.
- Adding Storage: A corner cabinet can add additional storage without taking up valuable floor space, making it ideal for smaller rooms.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer a traditional, modern, or rustic style, building your own corner cabinet allows you to customize the design and finishes to match your home’s decor.
- Easy to Build: With the right plans and materials, building a corner cabinet can be a relatively easy and satisfying DIY project.
- Cost-effective: Building a corner cabinet can be a cost-effective option compared to purchasing a pre-made one, especially if you already have some DIY skills and tools.
What Will You Need?
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions on how to build a corner cabinet, let’s first go over the materials you will need:
- Plywood or MDF sheets for the cabinet frame and shelves
- Wood screws or nails
- Wood glue
- Saw (circular, table, or miter)
- Drill
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain of your choice
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials, you can start following the instructions below.
9 Easy Steps on How to Build a Corner Cabinet Plans
Step 1: Plan and Measure
The first and most crucial step in building a corner cabinet is planning and measuring the space where the cabinet will be placed. Start by determining the overall dimensions of your cabinet, keeping in mind the size of the corner and how deep you want the cabinet to be. It’s essential to consider the cabinet’s height, width, and depth to ensure it fits perfectly in your designated space without obstructing any doors or walkways.
Take precise measurements of the corner area using measuring tape. Decide on the shape of your corner cabinet. The most common designs are triangular to fit snugly into a corner or an L-shaped configuration that provides more storage space. When deciding on the dimensions and shape, consider the cabinet’s purpose and what items you plan to store in it.
Step 2: Cut Your Materials
Using your measurements, it’s time to cut your materials to the correct dimensions. If you’re using plywood or MDF, mark your measured dimensions on the sheets using a straightedge or square to ensure precision. You’ll need to cut the plywood or MDF to size for the cabinet’s back, sides, top, bottom, and shelves.
When cutting, use a saw that you’re comfortable with, and that is appropriate for the material’s thickness. A circular saw, table saw, or miter saw can be used for this purpose. Always wear safety equipment, such as safety goggles and gloves, and take your time to make accurate cuts. Remember, measure twice, cut once—to avoid any costly mistakes.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabinet Frame
With all the pieces cut to size, the next step is to begin assembling the cabinet frame. Start by laying out the pieces for the cabinet’s sides, bottom, and top. Apply wood glue to the edges where the pieces will join, and then secure them together with wood screws or nails.
For added strength, use a carpentry square to ensure that the corners are square. Attach the back panel last to help square up the frame and provide additional support. Allow adequate time for the glue to dry before moving on to the next step. Using clamps to hold the pieces together while the glue dries is advisable to ensure a tight and secure fit.
Step 4: Install the Shelves
Now that the frame of your corner cabinet is assembled, it’s time to add the shelves. Decide how many shelves you want and at what height they should be placed. This might depend on the items you plan to store. Measure and mark the positions for the shelves on the inside of the cabinet sides.
Cut support strips from your plywood or MDF that will hold the shelves in place, or alternatively, you can use shelf pins for adjustable shelving. If using support strips, glue and screw them in place at your marked positions. Then, place the shelves on top of these supports, ensuring they are level before securing them with wood glue and screws. This step is crucial for adding functionality and maximizing the storage capacity of your corner cabinet.
Step 5: Sand and Finish
Before applying any paint or stain, it is crucial to prepare the surface of your corner cabinet by sanding. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots and imperfections, and then progressively move to finer grits until the surface is smooth. Pay special attention to the edges and corners, ensuring they are not sharp and are nicely rounded. Once the cabinet is sanded to your satisfaction, wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dust.
Now, it’s ready for finishing. Apply your chosen paint or stain with a brush, roller, or sprayer, depending on the desired finish and your comfort level with each tool. If painting, consider using a primer first for better adhesion. Apply the finish evenly, following the manufacturer’s directions for the best results. Allow the cabinet to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
Step 6: Attach the Doors (Optional)
If you decide to add doors to your corner cabinet, this is the step in which you will install them. First, decide whether you want traditional hinged doors, sliding doors, or no doors at all. For hinged doors, you’ll need to choose and purchase the appropriate hinges and handles or knobs.
Measure and cut your door panels from the plywood or MDF, ensuring they fit the front opening of your cabinet perfectly. Drill holes for the hinges on the doors and cabinet frame, then attach the hinges to the doors. Carefully align the doors with the frame, adjusting as needed to ensure they open and close smoothly. Once aligned, screw the hinges into the frame. For a clean finish, install the handles or knobs at a consistent height on the doors.
Step 7: Add the Crown Molding (Optional)
Adding crown molding to your corner cabinet can enhance its overall appearance and add a touch of elegance. To do this, measure the perimeter of the top of your cabinet to determine the length of crown molding you’ll need. Cut the molding at a 45-degree angle at each end to ensure the pieces fit together snugly at the corners.
Apply wood glue along the back side of the molding, then carefully position it on the top edge of the cabinet, securing it with finishing nails. Use a nail set to countersink the nails and fill any gaps with wood filler for a seamless finish. Sand lightly once the filler is dry, and apply a touch-up of paint or stain as needed. This optional step can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your corner cabinet, making it a standout piece in any room.
Step 8: Mounting the Cabinet
Now that your corner cabinet is fully assembled and finished, the final step is to mount it in its designated corner. Determine whether the cabinet will be freestanding or if it will need to be secured to the wall. For wall mounting, locate the studs in the wall using a stud finder and mark their positions.
Align the cabinet in the desired location and use a level to ensure it is perfectly horizontal. Secure the cabinet to the wall studs using brackets and screws that are suitable for the weight of the cabinet and its contents. For freestanding cabinets, consider attaching rubber or felt pads to the bottom to prevent sliding and protect the floor. Finally, place your items inside and enjoy the added storage and beauty your new corner cabinet brings to the space.
Step 9. Maintenance
Once your corner cabinet is installed and in use, maintaining its appearance and functionality over time is essential. Regularly check and tighten any loose screws or hinges to ensure the doors operate smoothly.
Clean the cabinet surfaces with a mild detergent and damp cloth to remove dust and spills. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pads that can damage the finish. For wood cabinets, consider applying furniture polish or wax annually to keep the wood nourished and prevent drying or cracking. Taking these simple maintenance steps can help extend the life of your corner cabinet and keep it looking its best.
By following these steps, you can successfully build and install a custom corner cabinet that fits perfectly in any room and adds valuable storage space. It may seem daunting at first, but with careful planning and attention to detail, it’s a rewarding DIY project that will bring function and style to your home.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Maximize Space with Clever Shelving: Consider incorporating pull-out shelves or lazy Susans in designing corner cabinets. These innovative solutions significantly enhance accessibility and ensure you utilize every inch of available space efficiently.
- Opt for Adjustable Shelving: The inclusion of adjustable shelving within your corner cabinet plans allows for versatile storage options. This adaptability is particularly beneficial for accommodating items of varying sizes, ensuring your storage needs are met as they evolve.
- Consider the Door Swing: When planning your corner cabinet, take into account the direction in which the doors will open. This is crucial to ensure that the cabinet fits seamlessly into the space and does not obstruct the flow of movement within the room.
- Incorporate Lighting: Adding lighting inside your corner cabinet can significantly improve visibility, making it easier to find and retrieve items. Consider installing energy-efficient LED lights to illuminate the interior effectively.
- Select the Right Materials: The choice of materials for your corner cabinet plays a pivotal role in its durability and aesthetic appeal. Opt for high-quality materials that complement the existing décor of your space and are capable of withstanding the rigors of everyday use.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can take your corner cabinet design to the next level.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Ignoring the Importance of Accurate Measurements: One of the most common mistakes in corner cabinet construction is not taking precise measurements of the space. Miscalculations can lead to cabinets that don’t fit, wasting both time and resources. Ensure you measure the area multiple times before cutting any materials.
- Overlooking Ventilation Needs: Electronics and other items stored in corner cabinets may require proper ventilation to prevent overheating. You need to include ventilation openings in your plans to protect your items and the cabinet itself.
- Choosing Inappropriate Door Designs: Avoid selecting door designs that may hinder the functionality or accessibility of the cabinet. Bulky doors or those that open in an obstructive manner can limit access and create inconvenience.
- Neglecting Corner Access: Ensure your design doesn’t waste the available corner space. It’s crucial to devise a plan that allows easy access to the items stored in the back of the corner cabinet. Ignoring this can render a significant portion of your cabinet space unusable.
- Forgetting Customization for Future Needs: While current needs might dictate your design, it is also essential to consider future requirements. Only build a corner cabinet that is specialized for current needs with room for adjustments, as this can lead to costly renovations or replacements later.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your corner cabinet is functional, efficient, and durable for years to come.
5 Different Corner Cabinet Designs to Inspire You
- L-Shaped Open Shelving: This design maximizes space and provides easy access to items with its open shelving concept. It’s perfect for displaying decorative items or frequently used kitchenware.
- Rotating Triangle Shelves: These shelves are designed to rotate, providing easy access to all items stored in the corner cabinet. This design is ideal for small spaces and adds a unique touch to any room.
- Double-Hinged Doors: A popular option for corner cabinets, this design features doors that open in two directions, allowing for easy access to both sides of the cabinet.
- Corner Drawers: Perfect for storing smaller items such as utensils or office supplies, this design utilizes the corner space and provides ample storage without taking up too much room.
- Corner Pantry Cabinet: This tall, narrow design is perfect for utilizing an awkward corner in a kitchen or pantry. It offers plenty of storage space while also saving valuable floor space in the room.
These unique designs showcase the endless possibilities for corner cabinets and can serve as inspiration for your own custom creation.
What Type of Wood Should You Choose for Your Corner Cabinet?
When selecting the type of wood to use for your corner cabinet, consider the overall look and feel you want to achieve. Popular options include:
- Pine: A budget-friendly option with a distinct wood grain and light color that can easily be stained or painted.
- Oak: Known for its durability and beautiful grain patterns, oak is a timeless choice for corner cabinets.
- Maple: This hardwood offers a clean and smooth finish, making it ideal for modern or contemporary designs.
- Cherry: A luxurious option with a rich, deep color and smooth grain, cherry is perfect for adding warmth and elegance to any space.
- Mahogany: Another high-end choice, mahogany has a deep red-brown color and unique grain patterns that make it stand out in any room.
Ultimately, the type of wood you choose should complement your overall design aesthetic while also considering the level of durability and maintenance required.
Conclusion
In conclusion, building a corner cabinet requires thoughtful planning, precision, and an understanding of both design and functionality. By taking into consideration the tips on maximizing space, selecting the right materials, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a corner cabinet that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Whether you opt for a rotating shelf design, a classic double-hinged door, or a custom wood choice, remember that the ultimate goal is to enhance your space’s efficiency and style. Always measure twice, plan for the future, and tailor your corner cabinet to suit your unique needs and preferences. With careful planning and attention to detail, your corner cabinet will serve as a valuable addition to your home or office, combining elegance with utility.
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration on how to build a corner cabinet plans. Happy building!