#1 TRIM SECRET--This Is The KEY To Better-Looking Cabinetry/Woodworking Projects! (For New DIYers!)

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#1 TRIM SECRET--This Is The KEY To Better-Looking Cabinetry/Woodworking Projects! (For New DIYers!) (FACE FRAMES)
Most new DIYers struggle to get their cabinetry projects and built-ins to look professional grade. In many instances, they're overlooking an important component altogether--FACE FRAMES. This short video from The Honest Carpenter will explain what face frames are, and how they work!
FACE FRAMES are a series of conjoined trim pieces that conceal the front edges of cabinet or set of shelves.
When new shelves or cabinets are built, they tend to have narrow edges at the front. In many cases, these are exposed plywood or mdf edges, which are unsightly to look at.
This unadorned body of the cabinet is known as a CARCASS.
Woodworkers and cabinet makers will construct a series of narrow trim pieces that sit 90 degrees to the unfinished face of the cabinet. This face frame will give the cabinet a more substantial, more finished look.
Also, face frames can STRENGTHEN a cabinet or shelf by adding some span support, like a mini-beam, when they're well attached with glue.
Modern furniture and cabinetry has sometimes steered away from classic face frames. But, many cabinets still use them to create a classic, finished look.
Thanks for watching!
The Honest Carpenter

[@inspiringbuilds]

Face frames! They’re a game changer and a must do as they give a professional look and add strength. 👍🏼

[@Mariolibanable]

Great book for a beginner . kzbin.infoUgkxD-QRFQz730FJEh4f9BYSf-nkIMIC9hL_ this book really starts from the beginning, as in it explains what basic tools are and how to use them. But when it gets to the art of creating joints and how and when to use them this book really starts to teach you something. At least that was my experience.

[@nw24153ns]

You routinely offer explanations to elevate our DIY carpentry and do so in a simple enough way to encourage us to take our craft to the next level. I've heard an expression - A good pilot is always learning - and I think I could amend that to say - a good DIYer is always learning. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, nw! I’m still learning as well 😄

[@CP-mb7ly]

Honestly, as a teacher for 18 years, I really enjoy your videos because you're a natural at creating lessons with your content. Instead of DIYer, I'd say that we're your apprentices!

[@SinnisjInsulator]

He explains it so well on top of that and simple. It's easy to follow.

[@bdm1000]

I like the modern European look of faceless cabinetry, so I am more inclined to use edge banding.

[@christen1075]

I primarily do automotive and I’ve never been particularly good or drawn to woodworking. What gets me going, his knowledge, and you just increased my body of knowledge. We all have our skill sets, and you just increased mine, perhaps to the point where I will be doing some minor carpentry projects around the house. Keep up the good work and always enjoy watching your videos

[@stuckinmygarage6220]

Bingo

[@czechmix221]

You can never have too much experience and know how

[@JohnD-JohnD]

One of my first large woodworking projects about 20 years ago was to build a book shelf on the front wall of a loft that went between knee walls and over a window. I was going for a rustic look.. I took 2x6's, ripped them to have a nice square edge (This is before I got my jointer), glued them up and built a VERY heavy book case about 15' wide by 7' tall and matched the roof angle with the different levels of the book case. No face frame need since the face was already 1.5" side. Thing is still there, still looks great.. Holds a LOT of heavy books and doesn't sag. My later projects absolutely incorporated face frames or nice routed edges.

[@dennisaslan9684]

I m old fashionned ,always go with face frame ..Gives them special look and touch ..

[@stayntune]

This is exactly why I'm subscribed to this channel! I just built two small 7" base cabinets and a large 30" wide wall cabinet for the first time. When I assembled the carcass w plywood, I was afraid they would turn out flimsy since the plywood was a little bowed. After I built the face frame it became much more sturdy and it actually looked good for my first cabinets!

[@DrDankster]

I just want to thank you for making these videos. I've been going to a vocational school since September of last year. Covid really impacted my ability to learn new skills in carpentry since 3/5 days of the week were online. I've learned a lot from you. I will continue to come back here even after vocational school to learn from you. You're an amazing teacher! the best part is you do all of this for no cost which is very helpful!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Centrax! I’m really glad the vids are helpful-and glad to hear your in voc school! We need more folks taking your path 🙂

[@valdius85]

I prefer the modern look, but everything you've said makes sense and I'll keep that in mind. It's a great concept.

[@jeanchance9334]

Just discovered your you tube videos. Been watching for a few weeks. You cover topics that most of us don't think about, but they are topics that really help hoan our skills. Thanks a bunch!!

[@ironwood1621]

I am glad you simplified the process. Thanks

[@aaronwilliamson4045]

Thanks for video. Several years ago I built some office desk and entertainment center cabinets out of pine from lowes. I face trimmed the assemblies with some ripped up red cedar I purchased on a luck find. Sanding it all down with the belt sander and then fine sanding produces a beautiful product and the different colored wood added a nice touch. Still enjoying these today.

[@basr7373]

didnt know it, love it, will use it on next project! Thanks for cutting trough the bs an giving us the honest rundown. Keep em coming!

[@jefff6167]

You do a vey nice job explaining the nuances of carpentry. Most DIY, woodworking etc. sties never get this granular. Thanks for all of the GREAT content you produce. 👍🇺🇸

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

You’re welcome, thanks for watching Doug!

[@Diliverium]

Thank you for a good explanation of the face frame. I see them used more often in work from America than from Europe. Personally I prefer the "modern" look with exposed edges, if you have good plywood it can be quite a good looking detail. But it can be a pain to get it pretty. It can be smart to offset some components, like for instance shelves, so they sit a little further in. So much easier than to make everything flush.

[@Recoils14]

I'm going to be building my first set of shelving/cabinets for my laundry room soon, and this was an amazingly helpful video to me. Thanks!

[@DrIngo1980]

I love how much information you, as a pro, put out there for the, generally speaking, less knowledgeable DIYers. You put a lot of great information out there for free. It is absolutely amazing. I learned so much just watching your videos. Thank you, so much, for all the valuable content you provide. It is truly appreciated. Especially by the "weekend DIYers that have no time during the week to do any wood working due to their normal 9-(5/6/7) office job (that sucks ass, but that's a different topic)."

[@shadisamaan]

Another awesome awesome video that makes me understand why my little carpentry work I do - turned out to look sooo amateur like. love your channel!!

[@walterdibartolomeo3157]

The structural support offered by face frames (as you point out with the mini I-beam comment) also allows the use of thinner plywood, as you highlighted in another of your excellent videos. Thanks for sharing.

[@michaeldelaney2883]

Great video. To expand on face frame, stiles are the outside vertical pieces. Stiles always run top to bottom. Rails are the horizontal pieces, they run between the stiles concealing end grain. And where possible, flush sucks.

[@DCgamer723]

I love that I already knew this, and still learned something to make it better, but I haven't figured out how wide to make them to make it look right.

[@eternalfizzer]

Thanks for giving me the missing piece of the puzzle. I've been trying to upcycle old furnishings (often pressboard) into useful attractive units for my house, on a budget. Adding trim like you've shown doesn't cost much and uses the basic skills and tools I already have (and a pile of upcycled face frames from the old cabinetry. Keep these videos coming!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

This is definitely a good technique for upfits, fizzer!

[@ilive4livemusic]

Great video. I just finished building a set of shelves/cubbies above the existing shelf in our master closet. Because I used plywood for the shelves, I used the screen trim technique you referenced. What a difference that makes in the finished appearance of the project. So much more professional looking. Now, I just hope my caulking and painting skills will be adequate as well.

[@jimadams6159]

Great discription and advice, I will certainly be using space frames on my next project.

[@danishnande9629]

Amazing how this video comes out the exact day, where I plan to prototype cabinets for our remodeling project in the first room you enter through the front door (I don't think there is an American equivalent. We keep washing machine and dryer, there is a sink and we have all our footwear and jackets in that room) It is hard to voice how much I (and probably my wife) appreciate your content. It undoubtedly increases the quality of my work

[@olderendirt]

In the US, an entrance room to the house itself as you've described is called a mudroom.

[@danishnande9629]

@@olderendirt Thanks. I've never heard the word used before but it fits quite well. Do you know if most houses have one? My knowledge of functional American architecture is pretty much non-existing

[@dooshnukem32]

@@danishnande9629 aside from allotments built all at once, architecture here can be pretty inconsistent. Mudrooms are fairly common, though. Many houses have one on the way in from the garage, in which case they tend to be called a "utility room", but essentially the same concept.

[@olderendirt]

@@danishnande9629 I've noticed newer builds tend to have them more than older homes. My house is over 100 years old with a basement so that's where my washer and dryer are. I have an unheated , enclosed back porch which is what we'd technically use as a mudroom unless we're really messy. We'd just use the basement entrance where the appliances and sink and one shower are.

[@joeolejar]

I made a set of side tables decades ago that have raw edges. While I was proud of them back then, they look "unfinished" to me now.

[@sestey]

Get a lobotomy

[@fernandovelasquez7883]

Excellent video! You are right, the use of face frame is a must and professional! It brings out the true beauty of you cabinets! Good job!😊

[@AB-nu5we]

Guilty of using almost exclusively the Euro look (no face frames). A lot of good points made in the video. As for exposed edges - I've used green bucket drywall and 'hot' mud in the past. Also, Bondo works quite well. All when painting. Love to have the pocketbook for ApplePly for exposed edge, unpainted pieces. I guess Baltic birch will have to do for now.

[@leetomlee7265]

Thanks for sharing. I like the Frameless with a flush frame.

[@philquinn6375]

Great video Ethan, you explained things clearly and don't rush , always my go to channel for when I need to know anything about wood work. Keep up the good work mate. 🇬🇧

[@profcah]

Great video. Never considered this until now. Thanks so much!

[@chelin7023]

You are extremely good at your craft as well as explaining the details related to same. That capacity to transfer knowledge is another gift. How talented! 🪚🔨📐

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, chelin! 😄

[@electricalron]

Ethan, I’ve always enjoyed your videos. Thank you for making and posting them. I always make face frames on my projects and I have a corner cabinet I’ve made for my shop that has puzzled me for months now on how to make a frame for this cabinet.

[@jbb5470]

Thank you for including these tips! I am going to give them a try on my next build!

[@JackKirbyFan]

I've done both. I agree, I tend to use narrow face frames. On fancy stuff, I'll use maple plywood and a black walnut face frame and it's of course gorgeous to look at :)

[@jobacuda4472]

That's gotta be a good look.

[@jimcooney9019]

I've done both. I agree, I tend to use narrow face frames

[@pattie.morgan]

I always learn something helpful when watching your videos. Thank you!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thanks Pattie!

[@dianedains7752]

Another great instructional video. Thank you for sharing. I am new to woodworking, and I want to experiment with and without face frames. Without, I would likely use for painted projects where I can fill and sand the exposed edges. THANK YOU!

[@David.M.]

I learned how to face frame bookshelves from Steve Ramsey. It is a great technique, your explanation is quick and easy to understand. Thanks for posting.

[@chooseanameforme888]

Thanks for explaining all this. Extremely useful!!!

[@Lady-Seawulf]

I've often wondered how carpenters finished off the raw edge. I'm not a wood worker just a wife who likes the look of good carpentry. Thankyou for showing me how it's done.

[@SinnisjInsulator]

Thank you again mister honest carpenter. Very easy and useful tip especially for those wanting to renovate their kitchen cabinets. I really want to reach out to you and learn from you, being a starting KZbinr in the DIY tips niche. Thanks again for your channel.

[@johnslaughter5475]

Personally, I'm using glue-on edge banding. But, another way is to use 1/2"-3/4" trim that is then attached to those ugly edges. There are several router bits available that allow you to create complimentary faces in the carcass faces and the trim. These look just as good, or better. Don't forget about pin nailers. 23 gauge headless pins are nearly invisible.

[@davidclark9086]

I just finished a bathroom cabinet and found this video very informative and well made.

[@DonTruman]

Appreciate it. Have seen it before, of course, but this provided much more insights to the idea. One other down-side to large face frames I've noticed over the years: it reduces the size of the opening of shelves, which therefore reduces the size of large items (e.g., boxes) you can put on the shelf.

[@mikedisimile2478]

Good job explaining everything thank you

[@pattysherwood7091]

Nice memories from watching this, of doing kitchen cabinets and shelf units with my son. We did all those things, including ironing on those rolls of strips. Lots of fun!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

You got a full cabinetry crash course, Patty! 😁

[@pattysherwood7091]

@@TheHonestCarpenter yes I did! With the best boss.

[@internallyinteral]

Super helpful video. I'm going to build some shelves (eventually) and I'm going to build face frames to go with them.

[@donaldjones4693]

You nailed it face frames are the best way to go covers up any plywood and looks awesome and add support that’s the way I’ve always done mine I don’t know about anybody else but you were absolutely right it’s a great video the first time I’ve seen your videos but I will watch more thanks a lot

[@codeyfranklin8429]

I certainly do love your videos.. very well spoken and easy to figure out.. keep it up man!!!

[@richieruss5742]

very helpful just what I needed.

[@lorylopez9864]

Hi, My name is Lory. I am a diyer and just wanted to say that I watch lots of videos about carpentry but never finish the entire video. Bcs they don't seem to explain very thoroughly. I really love watching yours bcs you do. And you are very experienced and knowledgeable. Thank you for for helping me understand the correct process. 😊

[@elliemajor6857]

Thanks lesson on face frame love it

[@carlosluna4092]

This is by far my favourite of your videos. I still highly value the other ones, mind you, but this one hits the nail on the head regarding finishing. We all get into DIY with a vision in mind, of beautifully made furniture, but could never seem to reach that quality in our imagination. This helps, alot. Thanks Ethan.

[@Sportyg1960]

I’ve watched and appreciate the SIMPLE WAY you EXPLAINE it LIKE I’M A 5yr OLD THANKS

[@fishingblackwatersound]

Thank you no I had no idea about face frames until now, learning a lot thanks to your channel

[@tomhostetter8516]

Love using face frames especially with a 23g pin nailer and glue...

[@ericpoppleton352]

For some shop furniture I've done sold wood edge banding (3/16" to 1/4" thick), but will be doing face frames for a nicer sports locker style shelving unit in my garage. Great video!

[@KBQuick81]

This video was very helpful! I will definitely add this to my closet built-in.

[@katmcguck]

Love this info, I want to build my own book shelf next to my fireplace with doors. Somewhat modern!

[@kristinthomas6001]

I think the You Tube algorithm read my mind. I was just thinking, why do my projects look like 9th grade woodshop projects (and not a good one!). I struggle to make edge banding look any better. I will definitely give this a try. I noticed that the Bourbon Moth Woodworking guy always has a face frame and I wondered about that. Thanks!!!

[@laurenglass4514]

Great descriptions and explanations

[@user-em6ie2be7x]

Nice I never considered using face frames pieces to make my wood DIY projects look more professional & reinforce them. Since I'm more of a Functionality over Style type of DIYer.🤔

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

I’ve made plenty of projects without them too, W! 😄

[@amsohn1]

Thanks Ethan... I'm building a hidden canning pantry... only hidden as it's going to look like a shelving unit on a 10' wall spanning the whole wall. So I really needed to see this, I was attempting to figure out how to dress it up and make it look more professional and have a better edge. I'll be making barn doors as well... which I've done several sets of those, however Tha nice crisp look will make it pop!! Thanks and blessings

[@ChelseaPensioner-DJW]

Hi, I just got some small mdf sheets very cheap, some of which are going to be turned into cabinets with the thickness only being 7mm I'll most definitely be using a face frame as well as shims inside. On my other project I'm using plywood but I'll be ironing on trim prior to painting, some use filler but I can't be asked. Great vid for explaining to newbies and older diyers.

[@chefspenser1480]

Holy Crap!?!??! Who Knew!?!?! Thank you!!!!! Another well produced piece. Thanks for no camera jiggling or music!!!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thanks, Chef! I always leave the music out, and jiggle as little as possible 😆

[@chrisnash2154]

Very good and different perspective on face frames. Loved your explanation. On another subject, I kept looking at the dust collection box you had for your miter saw. I’m hoping one day in the near future you will discuss it.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thanks Chris! I didn’t get to document that one because I was moving so fast…but I’ll try to at least show it a little bit in a later vid 😁

[@jimwhite5964]

Thanks... great video...very helpful!

[@monsierlemaire8282]

That was really helpful. Thanks

[@juferreira571]

Great informational video. Thank you!!!❤

[@treelimb2878]

I like it. Appreciate the heads up.

[@SamuelCersosimo]

Very relevant! Thanks!!!

[@genghisbunny]

Thanks, this was great.

[@ascensionprotocols2879]

Love this video. Appreciate the artistry and techniques of a pro! 👊😎

[@smtheodore]

Love your channel sir, thank you !!

[@lawoflift1]

Great video! Thanks!

[@jamtronllc]

Came for the tips and am just staring at the background. Your shop is gorgeous!

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Jamtron!

[@jeremiahtrejojr.5600]

You never miss!!!💯 love your content!

[@spencerbass7142]

Thank you.

[@rodneynaidoo9427]

Great video. I am learning a lot,

[@patrickbink4617]

I like the more finished look of the face frame. Great video.

[@timenavigator9643]

Excellent video idea & knowledge

[@clemmcguinness1087]

Good information, thanks

[@owenjones-wells9395]

Nice video, very informative, especially for beginners like myself. I would say though, frameless cabinets are (certainly in my experience here in the UK) very common, even in expensive fitted kitchen cabinets, with full overlay cabinet doors, and edge banding on the carcass edges.

[@carllamb6711]

Great and very useful video, I will definitely give it a go next time I’m building a cabinet 👍👍👍👍

[@jodiepalmer2404]

Face frames are also great at hiding slides when using drawers because they would sit behind the face frames in cabinets.

[@skullbonefortnitefilms4156]

I like the idea of putting an edging piece on each exposed plywood edge. I'm at a loss as to what type of timber I should use when edging birch 18mm ply, which is not being painted. Thank you for your informative videos. They are great. From the UK.

[@seanpetersen9326]

Thanks!

[@tommydeitch6382]

Thank you 🙏

[@waynescott4829]

Great video and makes it less daunting for me. I've been reluctant to use Face frames as it's extra wood, time, etc, but my alternative of edge banding, sanding etc, is taking a good amount of time as well and there's more imperfections, so I'm going to try my next set of cabinets with face frames and see how it differs in time. Also, If your cabinet is slightly out of square (I'm getting better at this, but not perfect every time), using a face frame and a small reveal when mounting your door would probably help rectify that.

[@PEACHPIG]

Thanks.

[@mrmanu20121]

You always give great ideas

[@jimmowers7675]

Grea video. Thanks for sharing.

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

😎 THANKS ETHAN…ALOT OF FUTURE PROJECTS…WILL BE BENEFITING 🤗😍😍😍

[@stuckinmygarage6220]

Thank you 👍☺

[@theocdogg]

This channel is concentrated dad food. I love it.

[@TXTundra-ex8bw]

I’ve always enjoyed your videos and learned a lot. I’m a diy guy my stuffs are not good enough to be used inside the house only in my garage or outdoor

[@MBMCincy63]

Good information and images. Thanks 👍. I made my own two kitchen cabinets from particle board (furniture board is what someone called it🤣). As a very green builder I have purchased the poplar 1x2 wood for my face frame. Have not yet cut it. Waiting for my landlord, to get real about doing this remodel.

[@PeteLewisWoodwork]

In the past, when installing fitted shelves made from fair faced plywood (usually redwood), I have often used narrow architrave (usually whitewood) on the front to conceal the exposed ply edges. It can be flush with the level of the shelf or maybe just a little higher to create a bit of a lip at the front of the shelf - both work well. The contrasting colours make no excuse of what is going on and they marry up well. The Architrave helps to keep the shelves straight and support any load that will be placed upon them. The effect works very well when you are fitting shelves in alcoves on both sides of a central fire breast. Remember to start with a large shelf opening at floor level (20" to 24") and gradually reduce them as they go up towards the ceiling (12" to 10"); I would recommend 20" at the bottom and 12" at the top - anything below 10" at the top would not look good.