Kitchen Drawers Vs Cabinets

Homeowners may have trouble deciding whether to install drawers or cabinets in their kitchen. Let’s take a look at the advantages of both drawers and cabinets!

Kitchen Drawers Pros

Many homeowners prefer drawers for their kitchen area due to space needs. Mid-tier to high-end cabinets often have storage with drawers versus a built-in rack that does not extend to all the items.

Drawers that feature easily accessible handles are oftentimes more convenient than cabinets. A peg system will also decrease clutter in the drawers. Here’s a look at some of the advantages of opting for drawers over cabinets.

Better Use Of Space

Drawers are a better use of kitchen space, plus they can keep all items in place more efficiently than cabinets. Drawers can be pulled out all the way so you can see every item inside.

Easier To Use

Drawers are easier to use and access compared to cabinets. With drawers, you won’t have to awkwardly reach for something or stretch all the way to the back of the container.

More Convenient

Deep, lower cabinets can be a big inconvenience for homeowners since they can easily lose something in the back end. Drawers provide greater convenience because you will not have to reach all the way to the back. You will simply slide the drawer all the way out to inspect the contents.

Better For Organizing

You will be able to put dividers inside the drawers to separate plates, bowls and utensils. Drawers are better than cabinets because they are easier to organize.

More Modern

Typically, drawers are more aesthetically-pleasing than cabinets. Different designs of drawers offer new trends and updated looks compared to cabinets.

Kitchen Cabinet Replacement Vs. Refacing

Pros Of Cabinets

Base cabinets featuring doors and rollout shelves are better suited for storing large pots and pans. Shallow shelves are great for storing small appliances, as well.

Rolling shelves are your safest bet when you simply cannot fit certain items inside drawers. Cabinets have deeper containers than most kitchen drawers.

Better For Large Items

Shallow drawers are unable to store large items, as previously mentioned. Even if you choose to stack large pots and pans deep into drawers, it will not be easy to access them.

Durability

Drawers can become stuck or even fall off the rails. Cabinets are extremely durable and can hold up to any condition inside the kitchen.

Better Display

Since cabinets use doors, they can display contents more easily. They offer customizable options, such as installation of rollout shelves.

How Much Do Kitchen Drawers Cost?

According to Angi, soft-closed drawers cost between $40-$100 each for installation. The total cost will depend on the style of drawer installed and the professional hired for the service.

How Much Do Kitchen Cabinets Cost?

Kitchen cabinets costs about $650 with average prices of installation ranging from $100 to $1200 in the US for 2022, according to HomeAdvisor.com.

A kitchen cabinet helps define the appearance and usefulness of your kitchen. If you have an outdated or hard to use kitchen design, your kitchen might be falling short of its possibilities as the leisure and meal prep focus of your house. Installing new kitchen cabinets will enhance its looks and convenience – and boost the charm of your house.

Buy Dovetail Drawers Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

How Much Does A Kitchen Remodel Cost In Arizona?

On average, a full kitchen remodel in Arizona costs $25,438. Generally, costs will range from $13,291-$37,607, according to HomeAdvisor. Let’s take a look at some of the important factors that could impact the total cost of this project.

Kitchen Size

These are the nationwide average costs of a kitchen remodel by size:

  • Small kitchen (less than 70 square feet): $5,000-$20,000.
  • Medium kitchen (100-150 square feet): $15,000-$40,000.
  • Large kitchen (200 square feet): $30,000-$60,000.

Kitchen size is perhaps the biggest factoring influencing the total cost of a remodel. For homeowners with a small kitchen, a remodel can cost as little as $5,000. Larger kitchens could end up costing upward of $60,000 for a full remodel.

Remodeling experts recommend starting with a lower budget that features some wiggle room. Think about what you can afford to purchase and what tasks are better left as DIY projects. Smaller appliance choices are both great for the environment, as well as saving money and space inside the kitchen.

Kitchen Remodel Budget

What should you budget for when it comes to a kitchen remodel? Consider budgeting for these expected costs:

  • Installation.
  • Designer fees.
  • Lighting.
  • Flooring.
  • Countertops.
  • Cabinetry.
  • Appliances.
  • Walls/ceilings.
  • Plumbing.
  • Doors.
  • Windows.
  • Faucets.

In the majority of remodels, installation, appliances and cabinetry ends up accounting for about half of the total cost. It’s suggested to leave nearly one percent of your budget available for any unexpected costs.

Most designers tend to charge between $100-$200 per hour. Homeowners can always alter styles and designs of lighting, cabinetry and flooring to save money. Make sure to shop around for the best deal before committing to a remodeling service.

Kitchen Remodel Estimates

Measuring your kitchen for the remodel is the first step toward calculating a budget. Remodels typically cost between $75-$250 per square foot.

Make sure all desired appliances fit in the area properly. Experts say you should spend between 5-15% of your home’s total value on a remodel. For example, if your home is worth $400,000, then it’s not a bad idea to spend around $40,000 for this project.

Buy Dovetail Drawers Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

How To Make Dovetail Joints

What are the various dovetail joint types and how can they be created by hand?

Through Dovetails

The through dovetail is regarded as the most basic of all dovetail joints. Although basic, this is an incredibly strong joint that’s very aesthetically pleasing. Cleanly-cut through dovetails have even and consistent angles featuring no gaps between pins and tails.

It will take some skill and patience to craft through the joints by hand. With a router, though, dovetailing bit and jig can make nearly perfect dovetails almost instantly.

Half-Blind Dovetail Joints

With some classic joints, you may only want a portion of the dovetail to be visible. For example, a solid dresser drawer front should not show the dovetail joint. On the box sides, though, that is perfectly fine.

Half-blind dovetail joints are ideal in these cases. Again, use a router for this task for the best results possible.

Sliding Dovetail Joints

A sliding dovetail joint is not commonly used but it can come in handy with certain projects. This joint consists of a long groove with angled sides serving as the tail for the joint.

There will be a corresponding long pin which is cut into the end of the adjoining board. Some classic furniture pieces used sliding dovetail joinery for wooden drawer slides.

Dovetail Jigs

If you do not wish to cut dovetail by hand, you’ll want to utilize a dovetail jig. Each of the jigs will connect to the board while being cut. This allows you to easily guide the router with a dovetailing bit through the wood to cut matching tails and pins of a variety of dovetail joints.

Buy Dovetail Drawers Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

Kitchen Cabinet Construction Methods

Kitchen cabinet construction methods can often determine both quality and lifespan of your installation or remodel. Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to build a cabinet below!

Best Kitchen Cabinet Construction Methods

Here you will find a few different methods for a 24-inch kitchen cabinet using a couple effective techniques. Sometimes, the experience level and available tools will determine which construction method to implement. Follow the steps detailed below to properly finish this DIY project.

Butt Joints And Wood Screws

Constructing your cabinets with a butt joint and wood screws has the potential to be the fastest way to complete the process without special tools. All you need to do is simply drill the screws in place. You may also use good fasteners and wood glue.

The only issue with this method is that the fasteners will be visible. However, there are a few ways to hide the fasteners:

  • You can try covering the sides of the cabinet with a quarter-inch beadboard.
  • Make sure the screws are counter-sinked so you can fill them with wood filler or putty.

Of course, it doesn’t matter if the screws are visible if the cabinet sides won’t be seen.

Butt Joints And Pocket Hole Screws

Pocket hole screws can be used to quickly construct a cabinet. This will require that you have a jig, though, to drill the holes. This method is often a go-to for a sturdy cabinet to join the face frame.

Dados

Cutting a dado that will allow the cabinet bottom, back panel and fixed shelves to recess into the sides may be a bit tricky, but it is well worth it. This method will require some special tools, including a table saw and/or table mounted router.

Getting the dados just the right width can be tough, especially when the material thickness differs. When building the cabinet to eventually paint, you will not need to worry about precision like natural or stained wood cabinets.

Dowel And Dovetail Joints

Most quality drawers and doors will be constructed using either a dowel or dovetail joint. Some cheaper cabinetry uses staples that won’t hold for very long. Dovetail joints are actually considered the premium standard for kitchen cabinet construction today.

Dovetail joints feature interlocking sections of wood that hold each piece tightly. These do not require any screws, staples or nails. The best cabinetry uses dovetail joints and wood glue to make the longest lasting cabinetry on the market. Dowel joints are a great alternative for anyone with a tighter budget.

Buy Dovetail Drawers Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

What Are Dovetail Drawers?

Let’s take a look at dovetail drawers and the many benefits associated with this style.

What Is A Dovetail Drawer?

The term “Dovetail Drawer” pertains to a particular design structure of the drawer, where the drawer compartment is made of solid wood and a dovetail joint secures the sides of the drawer with its front. This distinctive joint that resembles pieces from a jigsaw puzzle perpendicularly joined together at the drawers outside corners makes dovetail drawers easily recognizable.

There are several benefits to designing a drawer to have this structure, some of which we’ll outline further in the article.

Considered a premium drawer option among homeowners, dovetail drawers differ from regular drawers in how they’re constructed and the kind of joint they use is exclusive to dovetail drawers. Some drawer manufacturers even use Dovetail Joints on pull out shelves. This particular joint is called a locking joint, and comprises of wedge-shaped cuts at the end of the wooden frame that fit into each other from each side, forming a box. These cuts, or pins and tails as they’re called, form an incredibly strong and resistant box when they fit into each other. The joint is so strong, in fact, that even when the drawer breaks, it rarely breaks from the area of the joint.

Large Surface Area


It’s not just the mechanics of the locking joint that make it so durable, but also the large surface area it provides to apply glue on, and this increased amount of glue between the joints enhances the drawer’s durability and strength.

Dovetail Drawers Design


The design of the joint also allows for increased storage space, and even more so in English dovetails, which are the ones that attract most popularity and easily become a part of all kinds of furniture. French dovetail drawers lean towards the specialty and luxury furniture market with pieces that have curved fronts, and joints on the drawer sides shaped such that they slide upwards and fit in a trench shaped opening running through the front piece.

English Dovetail

The English Dovetail is one where you can see the ends of the adjoining pieces at the corners of the drawers.  This is the premium type of dovetail joint design as it is the tightest and longest lasting joint.  The English Dovetail makes the joint at the very edge of the wood, which means you get the most space inside the drawer.  In the finest drawers and furniture you will find the English Dovetail as it’s simply stronger and better looking.

French Dovetail

The French Dovetail differs greatly from the English Dovetail. Instead of having numerous “fingers” that joint to create an incredibly strong corner the French dovetail is 1 channel cut in board A and board B is shaped to fit in that channel.  This design is simply inferior as it hinges the durability of the drawer on thin edges of wood inside the channel.  French dovetail joints also must be made a distance in from the corner of the wood, which means the drawers are more narrow or not as deep.

Sliding Dovetail

Believe it or not all dovetail joints are sliding dovetail joints.  Dovetail joints are by nature and definition those where two pieces of wood are machined to have corresponding sections that slide together.  So all dovetail drawers are sliding dovetail joints.  With that said a lot of consumers call the French Dovetail a “sliding joint” as it does slide together further.

Dovetail Drawer Joints


As mentioned earlier, the way the joints are constructed is what makes dovetail drawers unique, and this is also what brings its advantages. These locking joints enable the drawer to be stronger and sturdier, at the same time offering a larger storage space. Although often seen as a standard for good quality drawers, this isn’t always the case. With a variety of different drawer constructions, you should assess the drawers’ sturdiness and storage capacity when on the lookout for the right drawers for your cabinets.

Dovetail Drawers Vs Standard Drawers

Dovetail drawers feature locking joints, which are constructed from triangular wedge-shaped channels cut into the edges found on each side of the drawer box. The obvious difference is that the sides of each crenel angle appear like dove tails.

These dovetails are offset on adjoining sides of the drawer box so they can interlock with one another, creating the box. This provides a very strong joint, further enhanced by the addition of glue applied to the edges of all tails and pins. Dovetail drawers are always made of wood as opposed to any lesser material.

Standard drawers are joined differently than dovetail drawers. Commonly, standard drawers use biscuits, dowels or nails to join the boxes. The joints are not as strong with these drawers, plus the dowels and biscuits are not interlocking. The biggest benefit of buying standard drawers is the lower cost.

Advantages Of Dovetail Drawers

There are 3 key advantages to quality dovetail joints when constructing drawers or furniture.  These advantages are primarily about the English Dovetail Joint, as it is the standard for the highest quality and most durable woodwork.


Sturdiness

As the sides of the drawer seamlessly fit into the front, this creates a strong bond that glued or stapled drawers can’t match. The use of solid wood rather than thin and less sturdy particle boards in making drawer boxes also enhances the durability and strength of the drawer. The perfect integration of solid wood and a locking joint in the drawer makes for a premium drawer that ordinary drawers can’t compare to.

Durability

As mentioned above, the solid wood and the locking joint enhance the drawer’s durability and make for a drawer that could easily last a lifetime. Whereas regular drawers have drawer glides on each side, open to wear and tear, dovetail drawers feature glides underneath the drawer box. Since they are the only part of the drawer that takes the brunt of the work and consequential wear, the best place for them is underneath the drawer, which is exactly where the dovetail drawer puts them.

Craftsmanship

Due to the amount of detail, precision, and craftsmanship that goes into the production of a dovetail, they have a premium feel to them that is still considered a standard in luxury cabinet making. Those with a refined taste will appreciate the drawers’ seamless construction and how smoothly it slides in and out of the cabinet. To ensure a premium drawer that looks stunning and works without a flaw, dovetail drawers need to be crafted with utmost precision, focus and above all, patience; all of which makes way for a product superior than most its counterparts.

Buy Dovetail Drawers Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

How To Make Wood Drawers Slide Easier

All homeowners have experienced trouble sliding wood drawers when they are stuck. The good news is there are many ways to fix this issue right at home. Below are five tips to make the drawers slide easier.

Tip 1. Soap

It may seem a bit odd, but the experts suggest trying to use a bar of soap before heading to the store for alternative supplies. Use an unscented bar of soap so it won’t end up attracting any unwanted pests.

Apply the soap all over the edges and surfaces of the drawer that touches the chest. Make sure to apply the soap as evenly as possible. Refrain from making it too thick because you want to make sure drawers can still slide back in afterward.

Tip 2. Sanding

It is possible for wood to become too bloated to fit inside the chest. If this is the case, a simple waxing will not work. You must now sand the surface of the drawer in an effort to reduce its size. After sanding, you can apply wax or any other wood coating to prevent it from either expanding or shrinking.

Tip 3. Candle

Candlesticks and tea candles can help release some stuck drawers. If you are using a tea candle for this project, ensure the scent will not attract any insects. It’s recommended to use a white candle as it won’t leave behind any visible stains.

Tip 4. Wax Paper

Wax paper is coated with paraffin wax, which will transfer to the wood’s surface when applied. Using wax paper can be pretty labor intensive, unfortunately. You will need to rub this paper many times to get the ideal amount of paraffin wax onto the wood.

Tip 5. Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is typically readily available in your local grocery store. Simply pull the drawer completely out then rub the wax all over the edges, sides and surfaces where the drawer is touching the chest.

If your drawer is almost impossible to pull out, you should rub the wax on the inside surfaces of the drawer that are visible. Slowly slide them back and pull outward. The sliding motions will push the wax to the unexposed surfaces, which makes them slide easier.

Buy Drawer Boxes Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

Constructing A Drawer Box

Are you looking for information on “Constructing A Drawer Box” or how to “Build Your Own Drawers“? Well, we put together a pretty solid guide that should show you step by step how to build your own drawer box at home.

With many DIYer’s, the terms “drawer dados” or “drawer dovetails” is enough to end them running off. However, there are simpler ways to create a drawer without the use of a router or table saw, while still ending with a beautiful and sturdy product. Are you stressed over fasteners being visible? Our design hides them in a clever way so they are not visible, giving a sturdy appearance. Keep reading to learn how you can build a drawer of any size quickly, and simply.

Required Time: 1 hour 30 Minutes

Difficulty Level: Pocket hole joinery and square cuts make this project easy and comfortable for beginners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these step by step instructions for how to build a drawer box.  Tools will be required for some steps such as saws, drills, and other hand tools.

  1. Cutting parts

By using the cut list and a miter saw, cut the 1×3, 1×6 and square dowels to the correct size. Mark the cut lines on the plywood’s face with a framing square. Position painter’s tape on the cut lines, if necessary mark again. By using painter’s tape, it helps prevent splintering plywood when cutting. Using a circular saw, cut along the lines. Then, sand the cut edges lightly to remove any burrs from around all parts.

  1. Drilling Pocket Holes

Place from and back pieces of the 1×3 on your work surface. Then, with the use of a Kreg Jig drill out two pocket holes, one on either end of the boards.

  1. Drilling Drawer Face Holes

Position the 1×6 drawer ace on your work surface, pocket holes should face downwards. Then, use your tape measure with a pencil for making two marks located 4-inches from each end of your board, and center its width. You will create two pilot holes with a Drill/Driver, which are used later on for attaching your drawer face.

  1. Adding Cleats to Front and Back Pieces

On the 1×3 piece, you will position an 18-inch cleat on both the front and back to be flush with the ends and bottom edges. Then, you will apply wood glue to the cleat with a bead pattern. Once you reposition it, you will need to nail it using a pneumatic nail gun with ¾-inch finishing nails to keep it in place.

  1. Attaching Cleats on the 1×3 Side Pieces

Remaining cleats should be placed on the 16-inch sides to be centered on the length, while flush with bottom edges. Doing this should create a 1 1/8-inch inset on either end of the cleats. Mark each end of the cleats using a pencil. Cleats should be removed, bead of wood glue applied, and position them in place again. Cleats then get secured with a pneumatic nail gun using ¾-inch finishing nails.

  1. Dry fit Sides

You should set the 1×3 boards upright so cleats are running along the bottom edge. Then, the front and back pieces should have glue applied, positioning them between the sides to be flush with each end.

  1. Assembling Sides

As we are not using fancy tools in this guide, we will use a basic method to hold the square joints for the assembling process. Position a block in the corner, ensuring it is an exact square. Then, clamping it to each side, make sure it is tight. This assists in holding piece in the correct position when inserting and driving the 1 ¼-inch pocket screws into the pocket holes and adjoining each side. When each of the four corners have been assembled, check that the assembly is square, then recheck with a framing or speed square. Measure corner to corner.

  1. Inserting Plywood Base

Place a bead of wood glue on the upper edge of every cleat. Place the plywood on the inside of the frame, ensuring they are on the cleats.

Tip: After painting or staining drawers, running a small clear caulking bead along the edge of your plywood base can help with keeping dust from getting between the 1×3 boards and plywood. In addition, if you plan to place heavy objects in the drawer, you should consider using 1/2-inch plywood.

  1. Attaching Drawer Face

On the 1×6 face, center the front of your drawer. Based on the application used, you should let the drawer face hang under the drawer box. Then, mark the position the drawer is hanging on to the 1×6. Remove the drawer, applying wood glue in the marked space, reposition your drawer. With a Drill/Driver drive in the 1-inch wood screws using your pilot hole in the front drawer and backside of your 1×6 drawer face.

Tip: To achieve a perfect fit, it is best if you completely install the drawer box prior to positioning and attaching the drawer face.

Buy Drawer Boxes Online

If you don’t have the time, tools, or woodworking skills to build your own drawer boxes but need drawer box replacements for your kitchen or bathroom DC Drawers is happy to build the replacement for you.  Simply take measurements for how wide, high, and deep you need the new drawer box to be and we will fabricate your replacement drawer box and ship it to you.  If you have any questions about how to measure for your replacement or would like to place your order by phone please call 877-917-4887.

Plywood Drawers

Dimensional stability is one of the advantages of using plywood for any purpose; unlike solid wood, plywood does not expand or contract with variations in humidity. It is also available in huge sheets of varying thicknesses, removing the need to laminate parts together to form a piece of wood of the desired size and to resaw timber to obtain thinner pieces.

This makes plywood a good alternative for furniture construction, including the construction of drawers for cabinets, dressers, tables, etc. Due to the dimensional stability of plywood, the sides of the drawer will not expand in humid conditions. This expansion might cause the sides to bind in the drawer opening, making the drawer difficult to open. Using plywood for the bottom minimizes side-to-side movement, hence reducing binding of the drawer and its runners.

In addition to these significant benefits, plywood construction minimizes the total amount of labor required. When constructing six drawers for a dresser, this might be crucial and save considerable time.

Properly constructed, the only hardwood component required for the drawer is the face, as plywood will likely not match the wood used for the remainder of the piece of furniture, even if it is the same sort of wood. Finally, construction using plywood is substantially less expensive than with hardwood. Even when utilizing hardwood plywood, just the face veneer is made of hardwood, reducing the expense of using solid hardwood throughout.

Construction of Plywood Drawers

Regardless of style, drawers consist of five parts: the front, rear, bottom, and two sides. Typically, the front is made of solid wood and mirrors the overall aesthetic of the piece being constructed. Even with commercially produced furniture, the back, bottom, and two sides are frequently comprised of plywood.

In the instance of drawers when the drawer front overflows the furniture’s framework, there are technically six elements, however only two are connected as if they were one. These are the structural and decorative drawer fronts, respectively. If a decorative drawer front is utilized, the structural drawer front is likewise made of plywood. In cases when the drawer front is flush with the cabinet frame, the structural drawer front also acts as the ornamental drawer face.

In lieu of this structural drawer front, low-cost furniture may use angle brackets between the drawer sides and the decorative drawer front. A piece of wood placed in the corner can have the same result.

Case Sides

The size of a drawer is mostly dictated by the size of the drawer opening in the cabinet into which it will be installed. This is a pre-project decision. Determining the precise construction method and dimensions of your drawer is part of the design process.

The overall outside dimensions of drawers must always be smaller than the drawer opening, even if it is only 1/16″ smaller. You need a small amount of clearance all the way around to prevent the drawer from sticking. At the same time, you do not want too much room, since this could make it too easy for the drawer to get crooked in the opening and cause jamming.

Drawer runners or slides have a significant impact on drawer size. Single runners, which are mounted under the center of the drawer, will have the least impact because they are mounted under the frame and only protrude slightly into the recess at the bottom of the drawer. Pairs of side-mounted drawer slides can have a larger influence, as the most typical dimension is 1/2 inch. With 12″ thick drawer slides, the drawer must be 1 1/16″ to 1 1/8″ narrower than the aperture. This discrepancy must be factored into the overall size of the drawer as well as the sizes of its constituent components.

As noted previously, the other important design choice is whether the drawer front is flat with the cabinet frame or sits on top of the cabinet frame, overhanging the drawer opening. If it overlaps, it often overlaps between half an inch and three quarters of an inch on either side, albeit not always by the same amount.

Drawer backs and sides are typically not the entire height of the drawer opening, although the structural drawer front will be, minus around 1/16″. Rather, these components are reduced by half an inch to three quarters of an inch to prevent them from interfering with the drawer opening. This is a matter of personal preference, with some preferring shorter sides and backs to avoid binding and others wanting to make them as tall as possible without binding in order to put more in the drawer.

When there are both structural and ornamental drawer fronts, it is usual for the drawer sides to run full depth, overlapping the ends of the structural drawer front and the drawer back. When the ornamental drawer front is also the structural drawer front, the drawer front will overlap the drawer sides to conceal the end grain. On higher-quality furniture, the drawer is assembled using half dovetails.

Some low-cost furniture employs MDF or particle board instead of plywood for drawer construction. MDF is not as robust as plywood and is more difficult to connect together, but it is suitable for most uses. MDF joints will not be as strong as laminated softwood or hardwood plywood joints, and it is extremely difficult to perform effective repairs if they break.

MDF and particleboard are additionally more absorbent. When they absorb water, the pieces swell, particularly at the edges, and their structural integrity is compromised. This can result in many issues, such as drawers sticking and falling apart.

Bottoms of Drawers

There are two fundamental methods for installing the drawer bottom. As it affects the size of the parts and how they are cut, determining how to mount the bottom is a crucial aspect of the drawer design process.

The easiest way to install a drawer bottom is to cut a rabbet in the bottom edge of all the drawer pieces to accommodate the plywood bottom. The drawer bottom is then hammered into place within this rabbet. This approach is less secure and leaves no room for the wood to expand.

Knowing the size of the drawer opening and accessible depth is the first step in determining the part’s dimensions. In other instances, shorter drawer slides are utilized, and the drawers do not extend to the entire depth of the cabinet. A great deal depends on the drawer slides chosen.

Putting Together the Drawer

There are numerous methods for attaching the drawer sides to the front and rear panels. Using a basic butt joint is the simplest way to connect the sides to the rear and front. However, this simplicity comes at a price; the joint is prone to separation and cannot withstand heavy use.

This can be enhanced by employing a rabbet joint instead of a butt joint. This junction includes cutting a rabbet in the sides of the front and back parts (equivalent to the thickness of the side pieces) and inserting the side pieces into this rabbet. The advantages of this joint include the opportunity to use mechanical fasteners to enhance the bond between the side pieces and the front/back parts. However, the glue will attempt to adhere to the end grain, which does not produce the strongest joints.

Driving a nail or small diameter dowel from the side pieces into the front/back pieces gives great strength to the junction without being evident from the exterior of the component.

 

 

Which Is Superior: Knobs or Pulls?

You’ve selected the cabinets and finishes for your kitchen or bathroom remodel. However, it is now time to choose between knobs and pulls. These seemingly insignificant bits of gear may transform the functioning and appearance of your room. Nonetheless, if you are stuck in the knobs vs. pulls discussion, consider the following points.

Consider Cabinet Appointment

When choosing between knobs and pulls, style is not the only factor to consider. Consider cabinet location next. In many cases, knobs make it easier to open top cabinet doors. Lower cabinet access is made simpler by pulls.

Observe this Victorian kitchen. All upper cabinets have knobs, whereas the majority of lower cabinets have pulls. This historic kitchen is yet another excellent example. The majority of the lower cabinets and drawers have pulls, while the upper cabinets have knobs.

Cabinet Versus Drawer Distinction

Both cabinets and drawers require knobs and pulls. As you peruse images of inspiration, you may notice a pattern. Cabinet doors frequently feature knobs. In contrast, drawers typically feature pulls.

For example, the knobs on the under-sink cupboards in this coastal casual bathroom were chosen by the designer. However, pulls were added to the drawers. The same holds true for this quirky kitchen, where mismatched pulls and knobs decorated the lower and top cabinets, respectively.

Click here to shop for dowel drawer boxes online

2022 Kitchen Remodeling Tips

The new year is a great time to start thinking of about Kitchen Remodeling. Read on to learn more!

Kitchen Remodeling Tips

When remodeling a kitchen, you should consider that things can go wrong and not as planned. Here are a couple of tips to avoid getting burned remodeling your kitchen. A kitchen remodel is kind of a big deal—not something to be addressed hastily. Before you visit a showroom or meet with a contractor, read some kitchen remodeling tips and advice for creating the cooking space you’ve always wanted.

Stay Within Your Budget

Before you start to plan, think about the market, and consider if a low-, medium-, or high-end kitchen remodel makes sense. Costs can run the range from $1,500 for a typical paint and hardware upgrades to $50,000 if you’re going to install expensive countertops and high-end appliances. Understanding your neighborhood will help keep from overspending – you might not get your investment back installing granite in your tiny starter home – or even worse, underspending. You’ll never see Formica in high-end homes, and in fact, it may hinder to your sale.

Stay Away From An Identity Crisis

Don’t attempt to remodel a 50’s ranch-style kitchen into a modern cooking space.  All homes, however unassuming, are built in certain architectural styles. Work with your remodel it, not against it. You’ll end up spending too much money and time on a complete overhaul, and you’ll end up with a kitchen that looks like it belongs in a different home.

Don’t Lose Track Of Trends

There’s constantly something new coming out in the world of kitchen improvements. By staying on top of the newest technological trends and developments, you may be able to find less expensive, more environmental-friendly versions of today’s hottest looks.

Keep Your Plumbing Where It Is

Moving your gas and water lines to accommodate the new configuration of sinks, stoves, ovens, or dishwashers is very costly, especially in older homes. Keep extra cash in your pocket by leaving any pipe-connected elements where they are.

Keep An Eye Out For The Wrong Floor Plan

If your budget allows you to rearrange appliances, be sure to keep your floor plan into consideration. Does it follow the triangular pattern between the refrigerator, stove, and oven? Is your dishwasher next to the sink? If not, you are going to create a mess every time you walk across the kitchen with a dripping dish in your hands

Don’t Trash Your Old Cabinets

If they’re quality wood and still in good shape, you’re in luck. This is one of the first things to check when considering a pre-remodel kitchen because cabinet frames are the most expensive part of the entire kitchen.  It’s quite simple to give restorable cabinets a makeover. There are 3 common ways to repurpose and save money; adding new doors and hardware, re-laminating sides and the front of the cabinets, or repainting. Make sure all the cabinets are cleaned and lightly sanded, then have a professional painter come in to spray them.

Don’t Skimp On New Hardware

Home remodeling stores carry a large selection of door hardware.  Pick knobs and pulls that complement the architectural style. These are an added touch that makes the whole room pop! Remove and replace any old painted hinges with brand new ones. It may be time-consuming but is also very inexpensive.

Benefit From Free Advice

Look at the home improvement centers for free, computer-based design services for help designing your kitchen. These professionals are at the leading edge of today’s remodeling trends, and their services include one-on-one assistance as well as at-home consultations, complete project supervision, and installation services.

Don’t Mismatch Your Appliances

Home remodeling stores carry a large selection of door hardware.  Pick knobs and pulls that complement the architectural style. These are an added touch that makes the whole room pop! Remove and replace any old painted hinges with brand new ones. It may be time consuming but is also very inexpensive.

Get the best attainable faucet, one with a pull-out spray or a gooseneck with removable head. It’s a necessity– and the difference between good and awesome is only $50 -$75. Stick to one consistent fixture finish because mixed finishes can look like mish-mosh.

Don’t Forget Include Sinks And Fixtures In Your Budget

When buying new appliances, stick with the same brand. Fortunately, appliance designers have begun to create good-looking, budget friendly lines that match. With a little homework and some smart shopping, you can find inexpensive appliances that look very high-end – and when they match, you get a designer look for a lot less.

Buy Replacement Kitchen Drawers @ Drawer Connection

Buy cheap replacement kitchen drawers at Drawer Connection.  You can also shop for replacement dovetail drawer boxes and dowel drawer boxes on Drawer Connection’s site.