Step 1: Remove
all hardware from two sets of bifold louver doors, leaving four panels
to make your cabinet. Purchase the primed and painted white doors to save
work time.
Step 2:
Select one panel for the back of the unit. Predrill
six holes approximately 12" apart down the left side of a panel.
Place this panel at a 90-degree angle to the back panel, and secure with
2-1/2" coarse drywall screws.
Step 3:
Repeat Step 2 on other side of back panel. (Tip: For a clean look,
make sure all louvers are facing down.)
Step 4:
Create a top and bottom for the shelving unit out of pine board measuring
approximately 10" deep x 12" wide. Predrill holes along the
sides of panel at top and bottom, and secure the boards with 2-1/2"
coarse drywall screws.
Step 5:
Select the number of shelves needed for the unit, and cut boards 9-1/2"
deep x 12" wide for each shelf, again predrilling holes on the panels
where the shelves will be installed. Secure boards with 2-1/2" coarse
drywall screws.
Step 6:
Create a base for the structure using a 2 x 4, cutting two pieces down
to approximately 14" and two pieces down to 11". Secure to the
shelving unit by nailing through the bottom board at an angle and attaching
the 2 x 4 underneath.
Step 7:
Miter
three pieces of any 3-1/2" moulding to create a base for the structure
and attach to the 2 x 4 base using finishing nails. (Tip: Leave
off back so the unit will sit closer to the wall.)
Step 8:
Attach the last panel to the front of the unit using three flat hinges
at the top, middle and bottom. You may need to shave off some of the panel
to ensure that it closes smoothly and clears the base moulding.
Step 9:
Create a cap to add height using pine board and quarter round moulding.
The cap, secured with wood glue and finishing nails, fits on top
of the unit almost like a hat. Leave open for future option of installing
a light fixture.
Step 10: Once assembled, patch and paint over any screws with primer.
Shelving, moulding, and cap need to be primed and painted white.
Step 11: Colorwash the cabinet for a finishing touch. Mix one part
flat interior latex paint in desired color with three parts clear
glaze. Paint glaze
over the shutters, wait a minute or so, and then wipe away some
of the color with clean rags. Let paint to dry completely.
Step 12: Repeat steps to make a second cabinet.
Originally published in Lowe's Creative Ideas for Home and Garden November/December 2000 ©SPC Custom Publishing
