DIY Fitted Wardrobe Build - Lessons Learnt Video #2

[@enigmaticx326]

So refreshing to see someone show how to make cabinets with basic, affordable tools. Not everyone has a workshop full of Festool kit.

[@garvielloken3929]

True! 🤣

[@harrywitney7116]

It sure dose help though

[@tonyconnor5691]

@@harrywitney7116 it does help lol festool makes everything so much easier

[@jymcotton9904]

You are a fantastic speaker, and literally zero verbal garbage. It's quite a gift. Great work on the wardrobe too! All the best!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks so much. Its not natural, I assure you! Heavily scripted and a lot of editing but I'm always striving to keep the videos as waffle free as possible, so I really appreciate the comment 🙏

[@jymcotton9904]

@@CharlieDIYte You are too humble. My 4 daughters and I watched all 5 of these videos during dinner the other day straight thru! We live in China. We are looking forward to video #6. And yes, video work is probably just as much work as doing the wardrobe itself. Keep it up! And, All the best!!

[@rogernyman508]

Zero verbal garbage ++

[@Mr.DarrenGriffin]

Hi Charlie. I just wanted to thank you for making this series. I'm now about to make my own wardrobe that follows your guide. After extensive planning in SketchUp and watching your series over and over, I purchased £624 worth of wood (which included the £100 where they're cutting the wood according to my cut list). I've splurged and bought my first impact driver, and have pretty much used all the materials you had listed (yes, even the Spax screws). The wood is due to come this week hopefully so let's see how long it'll take me to finish it. It's my first DIY wardrobe build so somewhat nervous but think I can get it done! Wish me luck

[@CharlieDIYte]

Hi Darren, great to hear from you. Great work. Yes it's daunting but you've done everything right with the research and once you get started you'll love it. I was toying with the idea of doing an update video on the wardrobe and reading your comment has made me think I will do it! The wardrobe bar the odd scuff looks as good today as the day it was finished. Everything still works beautifully. I just wish I was good on SketchUp like you! Good luck with the build. If you've got any questions or want to share photos during the build come and join me for a month or two on Patreon - and head over to Discord. 👊

[@andyjames8612]

Charlie, I’m a professional carpenter and have to say you’re better than some so called carpenters I come across. I build and fit a lot of wardrobes, I always use dominos to line the carcass panels up but I don’t glue them in, instead I use Confirmat screws for the final fix. You just need to drill a 5mm pilot hole slightly longer than the screw and they tighten up a treat. I get mine from Screwfix, they only do one size in there - M7 x 50mm but they’re ideal. As long as you drill the pilot hole deep enough, they don’t split mdf and I’ve found they make for a more rigid carcass. Worth trying them mate

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Andy, means a lot, mate, hearing that from a pro 👍🏻 How do those screws compare with the Spax? I've been seriously impressed with them. No bulging at all even without a pilot.

[@andyjames8612]

@@CharlieDIYte I used Spax mdf screws for years but all of my wardrobe carcasses are now made from Birch ply so I needed something that would work with that. Another guy I follow on KZbin does the same work I do and he always uses Confirmat screws and recommended them. I still make my alcove cabinets from MR mdf and tried the Confirmat’s on them and they just seemed to make the whole cabinet more rigid, no splitting or bulging of the mdf, I wouldn’t use anything else now

[@CharlieDIYte]

@@andyjames8612 That's a great tip. It's going in my Resource file for great ideas I don't want to forget. Birch ply is fantastic stuff isn't it. I've bought one sheet of 25mm for the shelves. Bloody expensive though, although I'm guessing you've found a note reasonable source than I was able to.

[@andyjames8612]

@@CharlieDIYte yeah it’s not cheap but does look nice. I asked my customers whether they’d prefer the insides of their wardrobes white painted mdf or birch ply. The majority of them said once their clothes are in the wardrobe they don’t really see the carcass so didn’t mind too much what it looked like. With the birch ply you get that nice woody smell when you open the doors and I just think it looks more stylish. I pay around £60 a sheet for 18mm Russian birch ply

[@ozzyefc44]

@@andyjames8612 what is the best painted the birch ply or mdf or do you leave the birch ply unpainted

[@carlb401]

Not sure how you put your rails together? But if you don't already do this but when joining the rails, use a straight edge such as a 4ft or 6ft level on the back edge of the rails to keep them lined up while tightening up the joining bars. As a carpenter i do this with my Festool rails as just butting the rails together and tightening the joining bars up can still cause issues.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks mate. Yes this is what I figured. You'd think they could manufacturer them correctly in the first place though, wouldn't you. Even Festool!? That surprises me.

[@carlb401]

@@CharlieDIYte Yeah even Festool. The only rails that are self aligning are the Mafell rails ( and bosch as they use Mafell under licence). However i have found that the TSO products rail joiners for the Frstool/ Makita rails from Axminster self align the rails due to the way they are made. Being a T shape they are better than the Festool / Makita rail joining bars, but i do appreciate that not everyone can afford to spend that sort of money on the TSO products, when they get the Festool ones with some of the rails sets. :)

[@JI7NKJ]

Carpenter of 35 yrs, Your work ethic and attention to detail would put a lot of so called professionals to shame.

[@CharlieDIYte]

David I'm humbled by that. Thanks so much 👍🏻👊🏻

[@matthewwhitley]

I made the exact same cyclone with the same vac. Works brilliantly. Easier to empty saves the filter and no need for bags. Definitely worth it. I had an issue with the middle of the container collapsing so made some rings out of plywood to go on the inside. No problems since and a great addition. Matthew

[@CharlieDIYte]

That's great to know Matthew, thanks for getting in touch. Yes, the bag link to the vacuum is hopeless so I'll be dispensing with the bags too, and I need to screw it down to a base to stop the barrel falling over. Looking forward to using it. 👍🏻

[@jessicahavens1980]

I’ve made some modifications to your instructions since I’m in the US, but your wardrobe build series has been immensely helpful!!! Finally someone who isn’t advertising a diy build and using cheap ikea pax as part of their build!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Jessica, thanks so much for getting in touch. Humbled you've found my videos so useful. If you have a moment, I'd love to see a few photos of your build. [e-mail] 👍

[@biomed2560]

Great series of videos, thank you. Please note that before you buy either of Screwfix's own brands, Titan and Erbauer, you will not be able to buy any spare parts for them as they are simply not available. When the machine goes wrong, you'll just have to throw it away. If you're "lucky" it will go wrong before the guarantee has expired and you'll be able to get a replacement. I was shocked to find out that some tradesmen "make sure" it fails before the guarantee expires for this very reason. These tools are fine while they last which could be a long time for DIYers who treat their tools with care.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks for this. There are actually one of two places I found out about recently that do Erbauer spares but it's a good point.

[@woodworks2123]

Good update video. Been at it for 20 years and although we all know it I've only now started investin in tools and accessories to improve dust extraction. The difference at the end of the day is very noticeable. Not only health wise but also how clean my workspace is. I've also invested in a trend airshield. Complete game changer for me. They are full head filtered air respirator.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks for that. I think I need to invest in a plunge saw. Then dust extraction is basically sorted. I like the sound of that Trend respirator though!

[@woodworks2123]

@@CharlieDIYte they make several different ones now I recently got the new trend catalogue, they blow filtered air into the head unit so good on those rare hot UK days too.

[@mikepagel8100]

Another great video Charlie. I alway enjoy your content. I see you have a space heater in your shop. You may want to remind your viewers that saw dust is extremely flammable and that an open heat source should never be used while saw dust is in the air. It will explode. I know you had just cleaned your shop and were not working so I am sure you know this however, some people may have not taken notice. Good luck and stay safe my friend!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Mike. I'll make that point in next week's video when I'm cutting again. Yes, I never have it on when I'm cutting and always give it a blast with the leaf blower to remove any residual dust from the elements before I start. Thanks for pointing that out👍🏻

[@howardbecdove9780]

Nice one mate! Brrrrrr! Glad I live in a city that has never seen snow. Though I am originally ( and always will be) a Yorkshireman. Most blades will have the kerf marked on the blade. My festool one is 2.2mm. I use a rule with a vernier scale to account for that, because sometimes it’s not possible to reverse the cut and cut on the waste side. Great viewing. Wonderfully presented. 👍

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Howard, through your terminology and use of Festool you obviously know your stuff! 👍🏻

[@martinshrosbree7739]

I’ve got a similar set up with the cyclonic dust collector and found that it kept on falling over when empty. Remedied with a weight in the bottom, made it much more stable. As long as you don’t wait for the whole barrel to be full it’s easy to remove the weight and tip out the contents. Really enjoying the series and just bought the Titan vac myself.👍

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Martin. I think I'm going to screw a stand to the bottom of it because I've got the same problem.

[@valborchardt3596]

Thanks Charlie. Just shows you can do stuff like this with inexpensive tools.....and very well too i might add.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Val, and good to hear from you 👍🏻

[@davidmcarthur1093]

To make the sides of the carcass exactly the same I clamp two sheets of mdf together making sure they line up exactly the same and cut through both of them giving you to sides the exact same size and do this for the top and bottom cuts down measuring

[@CharlieDIYte]

Yes I should have mentioned that, as that's something else I've been doing whenever possible. Thanks for the tip 👍🏻

[@vision6D]

Great tip thanks.

[@awantamta]

Thanks for those useful hints and tips. The wardrobes are coming on very nicely.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Tahir 👍🏻

[@rogernyman508]

Thanks for all the good info shared, and of course for all insights with the good, bad and the ugly. Absolutely love the direct and honest approach to it all. Keep it up, and once again, thanks!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Roger. Really appreciate that 👍🏻👊🏻

[@jimgeelan5949]

Hi Charlie, I’ve got a similar vac to yours and i plug a multi socket extension lead into in to the outlet and then you can leave all your power tools plugged in and all you do is just move the hose from tool to tool 😷👍

[@CharlieDIYte]

Good thinking Jim 👍🏻

[@mulletthehunter7163]

If this works on my festool vacuum I thank you very much! Never thought to try it

[@garvielloken3929]

Getting 2 Vids this week!!! AWESOME!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Yes, pretty unheard of for me 😏

[@dannymurphy1779]

As for keeping things square I have recently bought a Magnusson 1.2m T Track which hooks over the edge of the board. Only £15 at Screwfix and mine is square, which ludicrously a lot of other brands aren't. I really like mine it's nice to see what square looks like if you get me!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Danny. I've been meaning to get one of these for ages. I think I'll grind off the smaller section of the T though so I can use it for internal right angles

[@Martin4963]

Hi Danny Looked in Screwfix for those T Tracks, no joy. Don't suppose you have product code please?

[@ironmangtr]

Would really appreciate seeing the video of you making the dust collector!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Don't worry. I'll definitely do a vid on that! Probably the next vid when this series is over.

[@CharlieDIYte]

It's going live today, so keep an eye out for it.

[@ironmangtr]

@@CharlieDIYte Well made! Looks like a quality piece of kit. I have an old Dyson that I might just attach to one of these...

[@willstonvelo8100]

I like this cabinet build ,have made similar ones in the past, one thing to consider is the movement of the flooring that you place it on as this can be a fair bit , this can be hidden under the front plinth if the floor is butter up to cabinet but may cause problems with scribed edge covers with caulk up against painted finishs

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks. Yes there's a mm or two of sag where I've caulked in the fascia to the ceiling that I'll need to go back over. The floor isn't going to be caulked for the reasons you give. I'd rather leave a small gap as with the skirting as caulking won't look tidy at floor level.

[@joseph-carlwood1964]

Loving the project and the breakdown of top tips. As a fellow DIYer, I have found this super useful!

[@CharlieDIYte]

You're very welcome. Thanks for the comment. 👍🏻

[@welshkid12]

Great work! For consistent cuts you can use a couple of parallel guides with your track, you can buy them but also make them pretty cheap! Peter Millard makes some in his tracksaw series, something else I’ve done as well is measure your board width, place the track down and then measure from the non cutting side of the track to the edge of the board, cut two pieces of scrap wood the same size as that measurement, then for your next board you put these on the end and then push your track up to it! How that makes sense! 🤣

[@CharlieDIYte]

I wish I'd thought I'd that. Scrap boards for consistent cuts is genius! Thanks. I'll see if I can use it for the top boxes. 👍🏻

[@mikes6844]

Top notch video Charlie, many items covered here and I’m glad you’ve decided to do something with all that MDF dust. Can’t add anything other than for a major kitchen/dining room project I spent £70 on sheet hardboard. Laying and taping to the the floor saved lots of potential damage to my hardwood surface. I’ve adopted some of the 8’x4’ sheets for all sorts of jobs around the house from furniture install to decorating, it’s been worth the investment. The sheets I no longer have use for has been donated to my son. Really looking forward to the next instalment. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 regards Mike

[@simonbriggs6332]

Cyclones are great but you’ll need to reinforce the barrel or else the vacuum will implode it as soon as your hose blocks up. I had to cut an 18mm thick plywood hoop to match the diameter of the barrel but since putting that in it has been fine. 👍

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Simon. Everyone seems to be saying this. The barrel seems pretty sturdy and my vac not powerful enough to implode it, but we'll see👍🏻

[@CharlieDIYte]

🛠Charlie DIYte Amazon Tool Store amzn.to/3fcLnY4 - all my tried, tested and much loved DIY tools. ☕Charlie DIYte Buy Me a Coffee Membership bit.ly/3xuQ3zb - access our incredible Discord DIY forum and help support my Channel. 👚Charlie DIYte Official Merch Store charlie-diyte.myspreadshop.co.uk/ - all new range of professionally designed merch.

[@benh1216]

Looking forward to part 2 of the build Charlie! Love watching your videos! 👍🇬🇧

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Ben, I really appreciate that👍🏻

[@benh1216]

@@CharlieDIYte Just wondering what part of the UK are you from. I am up North in Lancashire you sound like your up south?

[@stevebosun7410]

Hi Charlie, inspiring! Try the "Strawbyte waste side cut jig" to take the guesswork out of waste side cuts with your track saw. Works a treat. Might be a bit late now for this project though. Peter Millard has an interesting video where he compares the amount of Formaldehyde in MDF and "tree wood". I also seem to recall, a comparison with the amount formaldehyde in oranges compared to MDF.

[@richardclarke9966]

Was just going to say this - such a great addition for only a couple of quid 👍

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks guys. Yes I've made a note of that👍🏻

[@-Colonel-Kernel]

Your videos really are great for the DIY'r. So much information. I appreciate your effort in making them.

[@racinghome657]

Watch out with the blue barrel for your cyclone, they can implode when they fill up. Keith Brown and Matt at Badger workshop strengthened the barrel with an internal insert. Looking forward to Sunday and the next video.

[@jimgeelan5949]

Hi mr home, I’ve got exactly the same setup as young Charlie there and have never had a problem with it. I think Keith and Matt both had a inferrer barrels when they did theres in the first place. It works bloody brilliantly though 👍😷stay safe and stay away from the bad people.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Jim, Racing. You're right Jim, my barrel is so sturdy I can't see it imploding, given also the strength of the suction which although 1400w doesn't seem strong enough to implode it. Time will tell 👍🏻

[@freddieleethompson3536]

2:50 I’m currently building wardrobes (and drawers 😬) out of MDF like you and the weakest link (non human) is the Evolution track saw guid. Utter pants! I shall be saving my money up for a Makita plunge saw for future projects. 3:20 Haha. Made that mistake, too! Oh well, live ‘n’ learn...

[@CharlieDIYte]

I agree. Why can't they make the damn things square!!

[@freddieleethompson3536]

@@CharlieDIYte I know right. I’m wondering wether to cut a square end myself on the mitre saw 🤔

[@woodworkingphoto8083]

I laughed when you held up your cyclone as I made exactly the same one from the same parts and I have several mates who have all independently made exactly the same! I think they're worthwhile as it will make your vac last so much longer I'm sure.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Looking forward to putting it to the test next week 👍🏻

[@woodworkingphoto8083]

@@CharlieDIYte mine works amazing, I was really shocked at how little makes its way to the vac. I used it on my thicknesser and got barrels of shavings. Need a fatter pipe for that really. Thinking of making a trolley for it and the vac.

[@garvielloken3929]

Looking nice and toasty with that heater! My God but its been cold!

[@CharlieDIYte]

It's amazing. The only problem is in powering it. I'm running everything in the workshop through a slightly heath robinson extension lead set up. As a precaution I installed an RCD at the plug end in the house and if I forget to turn off the heater before operating my vac or the mitre saw it trips the RCD.

[@garvielloken3929]

@@CharlieDIYte ok, thats interesting. Would you mind doing a video on that - time & commitments permitting

[@diywooddesign1548]

Great tips and pointers bud, always a pleasure to watch your vids! Looking forward to the next one 😀

[@Nathan-H]

Love the lessons learnt section. I figure i'm going to make a ton of mistakes, so by avoid the mistakes you've made I'll only have my own mistakes now thanks. :)

[@14GoOdLiFe]

I followed your example with the tent!!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Excellent. The Clarke one? How are you getting on with it?

[@14GoOdLiFe]

@@CharlieDIYte Still waiting for it but it wasnt the same model as yours. I just found a tent that fit my budget and bought it based on the comments. It looks more like a garden gazebo to be honest, but wind and rain resistant :) Once again thank you since I'd never thought of it if I havent seen your videos :)

[@rickynorris91]

Damn, impeccable timing...I'm on this in a few weeks

[@TimsBitsnPieces]

As a suggestion for you Charlie. I have made a clear perspex face cover to assist in the reduction of the dust output from everywhere other than the dust port, it also stops the chips from coming out the front and hitting me in the face as I am cutting and I can see the line as it is cutting.. It is a simple mod that anyone can make and fix to their circular saw and can be done by cutting a piece of perspex to the shape of the front of the saw (where the bolt fastens the blade to the saw) and either gluing or double-sided tape(which is what I did) to the facepiece of the saw. I haven't made a video of it but I can if wanted..

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Tim. Could you possibly send me a photo to [e-mail] I'd be interested to see what you've done. 👍

[@normanboyes4983]

Good build series. I see many have mentioned the waste side jigs from Strawbyte workshop👍 The issue with rails is although they are accurate longitudinally the ends are not necessarily guaranteed to be trimmed at 90 degrees. It is recommended that you leave a clear gap between the ends and use a long level to keep it sweet as you tighten the joining pieces. You need a proper Tracksaw.👍

[@CharlieDIYte]

You're right Norman. I do need a proper track saw, although I refuse on principle to buy a Festool. Just not worth it for the amount of time I'll be using it and that's just not the way I roll with my DIY. I don't really see the point of a waste side jig although I do like the idea of Peter Millard's track spacers for repeatable cuts. I was clearly wrong about not being able to do repeatable cuts (dow 🤦). Seriously tempted to go out and buy myself something like an Erbauer plunge saw for the next stage of the build. What would you recommend?

[@normanboyes4983]

@@CharlieDIYte I have only tried one track saw (the one I have) so my opinion is worthless. Peter Millard has pretty much reviewed them all I cannot recall his ‘budget’ recommendation. However as a long time Festool user he did recently review on a head to head basis, the Festool and Mafelle. He came out in favour of the Mafelle as the cost difference is down to around £25. I think whatever you go for you will not be disappointed, as long as you have selected the right blade for the job.😉 Edit - curiosity got the better of me - Of the cheap ones the Titan earned a place in his heart.😉

[@CharlieDIYte]

@@normanboyes4983 Thanks so much for that. I'll see if it works on my tracks.

[@krisruchomski9294]

Well done Charlie, all very wise

[@mikebailey783]

Crikey, thanks for the mention, Charlie!

[@CharlieDIYte]

You're very welcome Mike. Thanks for the recommendation 👊🏻

[@malcolmoxley1274]

I have a similar barrel for my cyclone extractor but soon realized that my shop vac when on crushed it in, all I did was to make a frame inside to stop this, works perfect now,hope this helps

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Malcolm. A few people have mentioned this. The barrel seems so sturdy I can't imagine that my Titan will have a powerful enough suction to do that but I'll bare that in mind. Thanks for the tip 👍🏻

[@philscraftcorner]

Nice bunch of advice in there. I've been using the titan track saw with a sock dust collector for about 18 months now. I found that the hoover pipe ridges caught on the material edge and could shift it slightly sometimes. The sock catches 90% of the dust from there. My little mantra for measuring and cutting with the track saw us measure from the left and place track on left of mark. I have just bought a new filter mask too but with built in goggles to help with stopping my glasses steaming up. Thanks for the mention. I hope you figured out which program works well for you to make your cut plan easier 👍

[@CharlieDIYte]

You're absolutely right about the vacuum pipe ridges catching on the edge. Trouble is, mate, the sock collector doesn't work with that Evolution. It blocks the outlet pipe leading off the blade before it even gets into the sock. Dust extraction was very much an afterthought on this saw!

[@philscraftcorner]

@@CharlieDIYte agreed. It seems like the evolution tools are great at multi tasking but not the best at any 1 thing. I have the same mitre saw and although the supplied blades are kinda cool cutting through metal wood and plastic, they are not that great at any after a little while and you then need an adapter to fit a standard blade on there

[@fozlou]

Just come across this whole series. Urgently renovating my house myself and looking to build a wardrobe like this. Luckily for me there are no slope angles or anything so more straight forward than this lol Looking to get a pop up work shed like yours too. Make sense to keep everything out of the house and utilise as much space as possible

[@CharlieDIYte]

Good to hear it Karim. The shed's still going strong 😉👍

[@simoping]

Excellent!!! Got to start a project... nice inspiration thankyou

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks👍🏻

[@azza1793]

Great video Charlie, on the topic of getting MDF cut at the suppliers, i recently visited B&Q (only as i am limited to suppliers who can cut sheet materials) and they are currently restricting all customers to a maximum of 4 cuts however i did manage to find a stockist who could cut at £1.50 per cut which after looking at the hassle of transporting 8’ x 4’ sheets and then the measuring/marking/cutting with my Festool tracksaw it paid for itself to get them cut. Just my opinion.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks mate. A few people have suggested Cutwrights also. They seem pretty good.

[@donkey1007]

Some real good tips there Charlie 👌

[@James-dv1df]

I got a jig from strawbyte workshop for cutting waste side that works really well Have you thought about making some parrelle guides as per peter millards videos?

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks, I'll check the jig out. Someone else mentioned that. The track has guides on it that keep the saw in position. Is that what you mean or are you taking about something else?

[@James-dv1df]

@@CharlieDIYte kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5Wkl6GEfrZofpY

[@James-dv1df]

A track saw square guide is useful as well. You can buy parrelle guides from bench dogs I believe as well

[@Cradley684]

Keep um comin Charlie Stay Safe Mate !!!.

[@offcuts4146]

Dont worry its a learning experience i made some a couple of years ago and you learn each cabinet you make. I think strawbyte workshop does as adaptor if u want to cut waste side not sure if evo saw but worth a look. Good job so far

[@harpalyke4659]

Straightening up the rails when joining them has always been my least favorite bit of using my tracksaw. I normally use a 6ft level against the back of the rail before setting the joining bars but I need to recheck it every time I move the rail. I ended up getting a betterley straight line connector from the states and it makes life a lot easier. Can be used to align the rails when joining and also clamp them and keep them aligned when moving the joined 8ft rail. Its a bit pricy but it makes using the rails a lot nicer.

[@CharlieDIYte]

It's bonkers that they can't design them straight in the first place, isn't it! That's a good tip. I'll look into that. 👍🏻

[@harpalyke4659]

@@CharlieDIYte yeah, just a flaw in the original festool rail design that didn't account for correct alignment. The bosch/mafell system actually has a really neat way of self aligning the tracks using a cam lock system. It's just a shame the other brands can't do it out of the box too.

[@ridgmont61]

I too have a Titan vacuum but the model lower and I detest it! The cyclones work well if you are creating loads or sawdust. I think you could do with a plunge saw, this task must justify it!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Agreed on both fronts. The hose is too flimsy and the vacuum bag not fitting properly on the inlet nozzle is a design disaster. As a shop vac attached to a cyclone extractor it's just about passable though.

[@conorhulgraine]

I respect you Sir great work!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks 👍🏻

[@vision6D]

Being in front of a similar work, I find your videos really valuable. I prefer to do cabinets with plywood than MDF. Any thought on that, I use 18mm plywood? Greetings from Geneva.

[@kenjames2214]

Good hints and tips - thanks Charlie 👍

[@mqblowe]

Love your videos. Very inspiring. Keep up the good work.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Phil. I really appreciate that 👍🏻

[@paulharrison6373]

Great video all the nuts and bolts,inspired me to have ago Charlie cheers

[@richardchapman5174]

Great tips Charlie. Looking at doing something similar myself. Very interested.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Richard 👍🏻

[@rogeliorodriguzlara2117]

Excellent video saludos from Mexico

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks, and great to hear from you in Mexico 👊

[@dashschaeffer6267]

I suggest you use the kreg rip cut or accu cut jig

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks mate. Yes I've had my eye on one of those for a while 👍🏻

[@johnbell7552]

Charlie, this was an extremely interesting blog - fabulous 👍 👍 I might be jumping ahead here but, do you intend to finish the wardrobes in paint or something else 🤔 Love your heater, just wish I had a heater like it but, worried it would cause too much condensation and cause my timber stock to warp and twist 😡 So, for the time being, the cold weather will be keeping me out of the workshop.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks so much John. Yes, I intend to paint the wardrobes with a Johnstone's acrylic durable eggshell tinted to a Farrow and Ball colour after priming it in Zinsser BIN. I don't think you should work about that heater warping your wood. It's a dry, very directional heat which primarily heats the objects it's aimed at although it does raise the overall temperature nicely - and you can control the heat via a thermostat and remote, if you're worried. They refer to infrared heat as akin to the heat from the sun, which is a good analogy.

[@johnbell7552]

Thanks Charlie, guess I don’t have an excuse then - better get one and get to work 😂😂😂

[@CharlieDIYte]

Try and get the directional one bit.ly/3tGGhIV if you can. It was out of stock when I got mine but they're both the same spec but I think the tilt ability is very useful in terms of heating you and not the rest of the room, given your concerns 👍🏻

[@johnbell7552]

Thanks Charlie, just checke them out, I wonder if I might get a few early contributions to a Sept birthday present 😂😂

[@colinwilson7524]

Charlie. Great as always. Do you also have acyclone dust build? That would be interesting.

[@CharlieDIYte]

I'll definitely do a video on that Colin 👍🏻

[@jamesjames_07]

Hey Charlie. Have you tried squaring your guide rails up using the mitre saw? If it’s set to 90 degrees you’ll be able to straighten the track up!

[@CharlieDIYte]

James, that my friend is a damn good idea. I'll do that 👍🏻

[@brynwork8096]

A cyclone is a great addition to a shop vac, it will keep the filter clean and keep the suction pressure up. But you do need a suction relief valve on the blue vessel as it will collapse if the suction hose gets blocked (It happened to me with a bang). I also had to to put a plywood ring inside the barrel to stop it collapsing again, but not had any issues since fitting the relif valve.

[@davemaynard3826]

Hi Bryn I’m looking at making my own cyclone and collection bin too. Could you explain the relief valve and how you make one to a dunce like me. Would love to get my set up bang on first time around

[@brynwork8096]

@@davemaynard3826 Hi Dave, you need to fit one of these to your barrel or the barrel will implode when the hose gets blocked www.dust-commander.com/gb/16-accessories

[@dannydoyle3022]

Hi there, brilliant series this, so much helpful information. You mention upgrading the filter for the mdf, do you have details of which one? Just about to do the same, thank you!

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Danny 👍🏻 You mean the Titan filter? Yes, it was this one www.diynot.com/shop/product/Titan-Reusable-HEPA-Cartridge-Filter.html but it looks like Screwfix no longer sell it. I'm guessing there wasn't enough demand for it, most trades deciding the standard one was half the price and did just as good a job 🤔

[@dannydoyle3022]

@@CharlieDIYte Awesome, thanks Charlie!

[@markharrison1884]

Great video. Thanks a lot.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Mark 👍🏻

[@tapper1971]

Good one mate 👍

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks 👍🏻

[@flyingacedude]

I had the exact same issue with the Evolution saw track, I can't imagine DeWalt/Bosch/Festool etc tracks are like that.

[@tallmaris]

When I built a small cabinet, I used a hand-made parallel jig for my tracksaw, using some spare ply and a couple of bolts. It does help a lot and it clamps on the track very nicely.

[@CharlieDIYte]

I think that's a really good idea 👍🏻

[@remcovanderheide9318]

For your dust collection bucket, add a piece of wood in between the lid and the cyclone. This will prevent it from buckling in. just the plastic will make it cave in on itself.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks. Might have to add a base too, to stop it falling over. There's no sign of it buckling though. I was aware of it after reading other reviews but the barrel is pretty sturdy. I don't think there's enough suction to make it buckle

[@martindorrance8133]

Charlie, can you give more details on your cyclone dust extractor, please? I’ve experimented with a dust bin and a traffic cone but the air pressure just crushes them!

[@CharlieDIYte]

There are links to all the components in the Description below the vid but I haven't used it yet properly. I'll let you know how I get on with it after week 3 of the build.

[@normanboyes4983]

@@CharlieDIYte it’s not the power of the vacuum / it is atmospheric pressure x the surface area of the barrel.😉

[@sonycumiskey222]

Good video Charlie. In your previous video you mentioned bastic birch plywood. Is there a particular grade you recommend..

[@CharlieDIYte]

To be honest Sony I don't know what grade it is. Only that it's 25mm thick. I'll see if I can find out 👍🏻

[@cjhification]

For M class and H class there needs to be monitoring of suction, was pretty sure the old titan shop vacs didn't have that so surprised it's saying bits classes for M and H

[@CharlieDIYte]

I agree, and given how badly the vacuum bag fits to the inlet nozzle, it's a bold claim that it's H class compliant!

[@cjhification]

@@CharlieDIYte I think even the M class is supposed to have a door on the vacuum hose inlet so you don't spill it when you remove the hose, which I don't recall on the titan my mate had.

[@jtthe3rd634]

Hi Charlie do you rate the evolution saw and track im thinking of purchasing a track saw myself. Love your channel ❤

[@CharlieDIYte]

I've just bought an Erbauer plunge saw which I rate very highly indeed. bit.ly/37z6Rdq Much more efficient at dust collection than the Evolution.

[@richowen2054]

That hoover is the same as mine...have you brought additional adapters for it ? Mines horrendous on evolution saw and other dewalt and makita tools

[@CharlieDIYte]

The Evolution adaptor situation is criminal. I've had to gaffer tape the adaptor to the saw. I got an adaptor with the mitre saw and one with the vac. I'm basically using those. Evolution didn't give a monkeys about dust extraction when they designed this saw. My Ryobi picks up pretty much all the dust in a sock bag I've improvised. You can't use a sock bag with the Evolution. It just clogs up.

[@Martin4963]

Charlie, I hate you because your videos have re-ignited my passion for diy and those projects/jobs around the house that I've been putting off for years and that itself has incurred me great cost and expense in upgrading and renewing my existing kit (most of which are 25+ years old and seen better days. On a more serious note, your videos are excellent and have bought several power tools that you have recommended. My next purchase intends to be replacing my 1992 B&D circular saw with a Bosch Gks190 or the Evolution track saw, unsure which to go for at the moment, your input would be the deciding factor. Kind regards Martin

[@CharlieDIYte]

Hi Martin, I love that, 🤣 and I'm humbled that in some way I've got you back into DIY. That was very much my intention when I set up the channel but I couldn't have dreamt it could work like this or that I'd have such wonderful, motivating feedback from your good selves!! You've just asked me a very difficult question there. Why? Because there's no easy answer without knowing what you're going to use it for. Bottom line, a circular saw is primarily intended as a more mobile, versatile equivalent to the plunge saw. For this reason you really want to go with a battery version, because the beauty of the circular saw is in its portability and versatility. You don't want to be constrained by a power lead - to see what I mean check out this video around 50 seconds in. bit.ly/3afhzro However the problem with circular saws is they're not really designed if I'm honest, for ripping down long sheets of MDF. I did my best in the video I've just linked, to make a fool proof track for my circular saw (I love that little Ryobi by the way) but as you may have seen from video 1 in this current series, I think I made it slightly wrong as there's a 2mm deviation in the middle of the track. And any full length wooden track is a big old thing to lug around. That's why the Evolution you see in my current video series is so interesting because it's a circular saw that runs on tracks, which normally only plunge saws do. But it's mains powered and heavy, and has rubbish dust extraction. So really, it's the worst of both worlds!! So I guess what I'm saying is that if you want to do long cuts in sheet materials you probably need a mains powered plunge saw with decent tracks. If however you're planning shorter cuts on and around your work bench then a battery powered circular saw is the answer - maybe influenced by the existing battery system you're loyal to? If you're planning to do both, then you need a plunge saw AND a battery powered circular saw. You're going to hate me even more now 🤦

[@superiorbeing95]

If you spike your hair up with gel, talk posh and say your name is Charlie, I believe you get a discount at Machine Mart & Screwfix lol Nice work again Charlie!

[@CharlieDIYte]

🤣

[@JerGoes]

It isn't just circular saws that are terrible at dust extraction, to my experience Evolution make tools that are inherently terrible at dust extraction almost as if engineered to be as bad as at all possible. I love my Rage 5S table saw but the gaps in the dust trap under the blade mean most of the dust simply falls under the saw or blows all over it and the less said about the Rage 3S throwing dust everywhere the better :D I use an identical setup for cyclone, word of advice make a wooden ring or something for the inside to re-enforce the barrel it WILL collapse.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks buddy. Yes Evolution don't seem to care about dust extraction. It's as bad on the mitre saw I've got. I'll see how I get on with that barrel but it seems pretty sturdy. 👍🏻

[@johnlamb2754]

The supplier I buy MDF from cuts me as many sheets as I want free of charge for the cuts,I get a complete wardrobe cut to width,take them home in the van and then cut them to length,saves time and effort carrying full sheets.

[@CharlieDIYte]

That's a great deal. 👍🏻

[@andrewgreen9785]

Very nice

[@chilliking123]

Can you still get the Hepa filters from screwifx? I cant seem to find them?

[@CharlieDIYte]

No. It looks like they've discontinued them. I'm guessing there wasn't the demand. That said, after installing this kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4PJeaOjZ9uZapI I no longer get any dust at all in the vacuum. Massively recommend of your using the vac in a static scenario.

[@davemaynard3826]

Does the cyclone kits come with a gasket. I’ve seen some do. I saw you use some mastic in there. Was that to just get a airtight seal?

[@CharlieDIYte]

Mine didn't come with a gasket so I used an old tube of Sikaflex EBT which was going a bit stiff but it's perfect for the job. Yes, I did it for the site tight seal.

[@tomkent3195]

These tips that your sharing are only discovered while in the build phase or a pro cheers Charlie great work 👏 this video is a gold mine of information. I Would find a video on dust extraction via a cyclone (how they work/how to build) very interesting aswell.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Tom, I really appreciate that. Yes I'll definitely do a video on the cyclone build. Links to the components are in the Description if you're interested. Total cost about £80, which is more than the vac but possibly worth it in the long run. We shall see!

[@headleshydra]

Why do you raise the base up off the floor? Because floor was uneven? Would you raise it up on a perfectly flat floor, if so why?

[@CharlieDIYte]

Because the floor was uneven. Trying to get the table as flat as possible - this being critical for making the doors in vid 7

[@the-elliott-day]

Some brilliant advice there - once again just at the right time for me! Especially about the circular saw cut and cutting on the waste side. I admit I've done that far too many times :-/ Thanks to everyone who suggested the cut list programs, they'll save me much material :-) Re fixings in MDF - there's things called threaded nuts or threaded inserts, and are used with machine screws or bolts - admittedly a bit ugly, but removable. One can glue, resin or screw them into wood, and there's rivet nuts for sheet metal. Of course there's the IKEA style cam fittings available from Screwfix. You could go crazy and recess the threaded nut fitting and bolt so it's flush with the wardrobe/cabinet - just remember to leave enough of a gap to get a socket in! Track guide - metalstore aluminium bar plus clamps - not the most elegant solution - could drill the straight edge for clamps to fix more securely (and accurately). I'm sure if you did a collab with Colin Furze you'd get a bulletproof track, probably literally!

[@BOBBY-et9xb]

Charlie. If you cutting your board on the right side and the piece under your track is the waste are you not cutting your board blade width short.

[@CharlieDIYte]

No, the piece under my track is the piece I'm keeping. I wonder whether the example I gave was a bit confusing because I started as you suggest by showing the other scenario when you've got the waste under the track instead.

[@BOBBY-et9xb]

@@CharlieDIYteAfter watching the video again, I gree you are right. I misunderstood. Apologies. 😊

[@CharlieDIYte]

No worries mate. Thanks for watching the vid 👍🏻

[@jpennifold10]

What do you do with hairline cracks on walls and ceilings? Got a video?

[@CharlieDIYte]

Yes you want to get some Easi-fill (the 4x1kg sachet box would be your best option) I show you how to mix it here bit.ly/37aov70 and scrape it into the cracks with a continental filler knife. You want to apply it so that you have no residue on the surface when you've passed over the crack ie you only deposit the filler in the crack. Then let it set, perhaps give it a very gentle sand with 180grit sandpaper and then repaint.

[@jpennifold10]

@@CharlieDIYte @The Canadian Home Painter have you ever used paint that claims to fill cracks?

[@fireblaster9961]

Thought you had a garage?, work in bigger filler strips to the ends to walls to make install easier

[@azza1793]

If i remember correctly the garage is quite a trek from the house

[@CharlieDIYte]

Yes and it's currently full of stuff. But the trek is the main issue.

[@rodgerq]

Don't know how many time I made that mistake of cutting the wrong side of the splinter guard on the track saw 🤣 If you haven't already done so, a wooden ring inside the cyclone collector to stop it caving in on itself is a good idea.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Rodger. A few people have suggested that. I'll let you know how I get on with it after next week's suctioning.

[@billysaunders544]

Just measure your blade thickness and add it on to your overall measurement

[@CharlieDIYte]

👍

[@JongeGeeven]

Nice vedeo

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks 👍🏻

[@anthonymiddlesex6859]

charlie dust cyclones work and ive been working this week in the snow i purchased a nilfisk vac 10 years ago still going its got power take off cant beat it and its stays on 5 seconds after.....are you using moisture resistant mdf........first time ive used it this week paints really well

[@CharlieDIYte]

Yes. First time I've used MR mdf Anthony. I hate painting so I'm looking forward to seeing how it works. 👍🏻

[@bradjones5266]

Talking about millimetre accuracy. I recently discovered that there are differences between tape measures...who knew. It turns out they are classified according to a set standard. This ranges from unclassified to class 2 and class1. Class 1 being the most accuarate. I wanted to pass this along as its not immediately obvious...at least it wasn't to me!

[@TheSmartStar]

Yeah it feels nice using a tape measure you can actually trust. I use a Tajima hi lock, lovely tool and for £20 it’s a steal. Stays in the workshop and the Stanley’s go to site!

[@bradjones5266]

​@@TheSmartStar Great, thanks for sharing. I have also heard good things about the Fisco brand..class 1

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the heads up on this. I'll definitely get one of those Tajima 👍🏻

[@grahamarnold2591]

Great your tackling the MDF dust so dangerous ..LOOK FORWARD TO THE VIDEO SOON/10/10.

[@latchfordbob]

Whenever I've looked into getting pre cut MDF it's been massively more expensive than getting it from B & Q and using their cutting service. Has anyone get any recommendations on somewhere I can get it online at a competitive price?

[@alexanderbell3102]

I have always found that the b and q cut service is hit and miss with absolute accuracy.

[@CharlieDIYte]

A couple of people have suggested Cutwrights. Looks like they've got some impressive kit to guarantee cut accuracy.

[@kristoffscuba5466]

Track saw as opposed to that circular saw really would cut down the dust massively. Not sure why anyone would by a guided circular saw instead of a track saw tbh. You’ll want to make a pressure relief valve for your cyclone too. If there’s ever a blockage it’ll suck that blue barrel inside out like a crisp packet. I know as it happened to me with that exact same setup. I caught my hose on a plastic bag for a split second and the blue bin was toast..

[@mojothepirateleworthy1054]

Why’s mdf banned in usa but not in uk

[@leha1908]

A link for those Cut list Apps would be nice. And a warning about MDF use. Because MDF is made of POWDERED wood it is a very serious dust problem. My father a Royal Marine trained Chippy was an early adopter of MDF in the early 80's he loved the stuff. He used the stuff every week, without gloves, dust masks or any more eye protection than his sight glasses for over a decade before health and safety kicked in. He is now suffering from Emphysema, Glaucoma and Contact dermatitis, all connected to MDF use without Hand, Eye and Lung protection. Please take note. There isn't enough health data about MDF use so er on the side of caution, you don't want to be a Grand Father who frightens your grandchildren because your covered in skin rashes, Breath like Darth Vader and can hardly see.

[@CharlieDIYte]

Blimey. Thanks for that. Yes I've been a bit complacent about this in the past but I'm taking it very seriously now. So sorry to hear about your Dad. Must be terrible to see the health deterioration particularly given his past!

[@leha1908]

@@CharlieDIYte Yes it is terrible, My grand father was in the building trade as well during the time that that the government said Asbestos was safe to work with And he died of Asbestosis, A death I wouldn't wish on anyone. Almost all the men in my family have or are working in the building trades, The only trade not represented in my family is plumbers. The one thing I've learned about the building trades is most of the materials you have to use are very bad for your health. Lung, eye and skin problems are common in my family. As a result I left the trades and if I'm doing any DIY I use a full face Respirator Dust Mask and disposable painters suit and gloves. My family think I'm nutts but my breathing and skin have improved, while their is getting worst by degrees.

[@ianrobinson6164]

"lessons learned " who new it would be so valuable and entertaining ,,maybe quick mid-weekly vid is called for

[@CharlieDIYte]

Thanks Ian. Yes I do need to up my productivity. 👍🏻