CHEAP and EASY Shaker Cabinet Doors and Drawers | DIY | HOW TO

[@WoodNerds]

Wow! This video is getting a lot of attention! Just wanted to thank everyone for the supporting comments and for sharing tips that others can benefit from! I appreciate you guys! 🍻Cheers! -Tyler

[@mr.a.]

You deserve it! Great video!! I had to save it for a future project.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! Glad it was helpful! Cheers!

[@eaglei_trade]

Ah man i was really hopping to see the painting process and type used (like primer, paint and all). With mdf i feel like that can be a make it or break it step for finish and durability :(

[@WoodNerds]

I honestly didn’t do anything special is why I didn’t show it haha. Sanded the edges to remove tool marks, used a furniture/cabinet paint/primer. Foam cabinet roller brush on the flat surfaces and ends, bristle brush on inside corners. The first coat gets drank in by the edges a little bit but after that it was paint as normal. I think it did 4 coats.

[@christinebrennan4484]

This was fantastic! Thank you!

[@carlosarredondo2589]

This is what I call an actual TUTORIAL! Thank you for being specific enough for us amateurs. Just subscribed. A big THANK YOU.

[@WoodNerds]

I appreciate that! Videos without all the details are much easier to make haha. Step by step instructions is a lot of work so thank you for commenting and subscribing! Cheers!

[@lega78]

A huge THANK YOU!

[@hustletradinginvesting8453]

Excellent vid! I'm an Architect/Retired PM, Generalist. Just finished doing my kitchen tile, now I'm gonna use this video as my main ref video for refacing. Awesome basics tutorial. U rock. Well explained and u kept it simple and easy to understand. Thanks

[@WoodNerds]

I appreciate the compliments! I’m glad the video was helpful and wish you good luck with your project! Thanks for watching and taking the time to write up a comment! Let me know how they turn out!

[@mylescarroll9445]

Same. And couldn't agree more

[@expeditionadventure318]

Brutha, now I can rebuild my cabinet doors in my 1980s condo. I might even become a cabinet door maker thanks to you! Appreciate the quality video 💪

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! Glad it was helpful! I’d be stoked to hear how they come out! Hopefully it’ll save and make you some money! Cheers man!

[@ryanrents126]

I do flips and rentals full time. I often do a variant of this that I like even more. Cut 1/2" MDF sheet to exact size of finished door or drawer. Rip 1/4" sheets of MDF down to rail/stile size. Glue liberally with brush or roller and stick them on the 1/2". Let them overhang all around by about 1/16". I'll usually use a few 5/8" 23gauge pins and/or large binder clips to hold them til glue dries. Then flush trim the overhang with a router bit. Prime, and paint with Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane or similar. If you pay attention to detail you get an excellent looking result. Also works great for built ins for book cases, closets, etc.

[@WoodNerds]

I’m going to try this for sure. A couple people have suggested it and I don’t see a downside. Fast, easy, cheap! Thanks for watching and sharing your experience, Ryan! I appreciate it!

[@ryanrents126]

My dumb ass commented before reading other similar comments. I'm all for easier / cheaper / better techniques. Worth noting that the key to getting a flawless edge is using plenty of glue and clamping. Also skimming the mdf edge with glue or a filler like drywall compound before light sanding and priming really hides any imperfections in the material. Something like hard maple makes the best frame of course but it costs a fortune and is a lot of work.

[@WoodNerds]

@ryanrents126 haha! No worries, man. Everyone has been sprinkling their own flavor on different processes so it’s all helpful. Thanks for the tips. I saved them to reference when I get to trying it out.

[@peterfitzpatrick7032]

Peter Millard did that on one of his first ever videos on YT... the most important thing was doing a good job in sanding / sealing / painting... but they turned out great... 👏😏

[@dawnc5797]

@@ryanrents126 thanks for your suggestions. As much as I love mortis and tenon I don't have the tools nor the patience to do it that way. I was thinking along the lines of your input and was hoping someone made a comment about it. So thanks again!

[@erpinterfaces9631]

IWATCH THIS. I did this for a laundry room but used ash for stiles and rails. Also used table saw. However if I had this video first I would have saved countless hours on redoing my stiles and rails. The many, many tips will save you time and frustration over and over again. The careful explanations and tool reviews are golden. The pure quality of the video is practically flawless, and it’s engaging and fun. What the heck more could you ask? Thank you man! Cheers!

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! Thank you! I really appreciate that! Cheers!

[@ChrisDac08]

I love how I watch DIY youtube vids at lunch and I feel like I'm a seasoned cabinet maker when its time to go back to work ;)

[@WoodNerds]

Haha glad it was helpful Chris! Thanks for watching and taking time to respond! Cheers!

[@overit16]

😂😂😂.

[@CelestialPopCollectiveOfficial]

I actually prefer the look of the thinner mdf you’ve used. It’s very classy compared to the chunky look of the thicker. I’m inspired to replace all my drawer fronts and cupboard doors in my workshop. Great job! I love your wife’s taste in the green/gold combo. Beautiful little bathroom. 🫶🏻🇨🇦

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you so much! I am pleased with the results. It doesn’t take much to make me happy so when she says she loves it, I know it turned out pretty good haha. Thanks again for watching and interacting! Cheers from your southern neighbor!

[@PatrickEArchuleta-fs8bv]

Young man your work is second to none outstanding work God continue to bless you.😊

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you so much, Patrick! I really appreciate the compliment and kind words!

[@T_Jonesy]

Cutting the extra stile to double check where to put the cabinet hinges without having to deal with the weight of the door is a brilliant idea. Great video.

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! Thank you! It was really helpful! I appreciate you watching and the feedback!

[@nowherewoodcraft]

Hello, Tyler: Wow! In my preparation for my first crafting of cabinet doors, I watched this presentation--and took notes. I appreciate your taking time to give us an extremely detailed, step-by-step tutorial. Hard to imagine anyone improving on your thoroughness. I especially love the tip to make the EXTRA STYLE for the door fitting stage! Furthermore, your review and recommendations of the tools you used came off as sincere advice and not a sales pitch. We don't want to waste money on junk. Lastly, I am a retired teacher (35 years), and this presentation at least commends you as an excellent teacher. You anticipated our questions and took the time to make a detailed lesson complete with well-thought camera angles ( as in the table saw setup for cutting the tendons). Thank you for your craftsmanship for both product and presentation!

[@WoodNerds]

Wow! Thank you for the compliments! I truly appreciate the feedback! I’m glad my video was helpful! Good luck with your projects! More videos in the works!

[@bartholomewgreatpants3425]

This is the first video ive watched that actually got me to get out there and try to make a cabinet door. Thanks for that it turned out really good.

[@WoodNerds]

Hey! That’s awesome! Glad it turned out well! Thanks for watching and sharing!

[@michaelemmetti752]

Is there anyone more chill than you. This is definitely something I can handle. Thanks for sharing the knowledge.

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks for the compliments, Michael! Let me know if you have any questions along the way! Good luck with your project!

[@motomike48]

I’ve been watching cabinet making videos for weeks and found this by far the most helpful. This video alone should be another to tackle my kitchen. Great video🎉

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! I appreciate the feedback! I’m glad the video was helpful! Good luck with your project!

[@surewhatever8843]

I’m about to embark on a down-to-the-studs renovation on a small cottage (~425 sf) to which I’ll move in while renovating the main house (~1200 sf). Both built in the 1950s and my overall design hinges on custom cabinetry. I’m good with the functional part of the build, but the aesthetic part concerned me. I appreciate your budget savvy ideas and also that you shared your decision making process. I lost most my shop tools so seeing you create such beautiful doors and door fronts without an insane $150K workshop is inspiring. Thank you!

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks for watching! Wow, that’s going to be a serious project! So sorry to hear about your tools! I’m glad my video was helpful to you! Good luck with your renovation! I hope it turns out great! Cheers!

[@idaelrey26]

Thanks!

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you so much for the support! It really means a lot!

[@Henry_Swanson]

I made 52 doors and drawer faces like this all over my house. My advice, take your savings and spend some of it on good paint. I used Latex in the bathrooms and good Alkyd enamel in the kitchen. Two years later I have had to remove and repair several cabinet doors in the kids bathroom since the MDF blows up once the water gets past the coating. The kitchen still looks nice.

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks for the advice, man! I forget how messy kids can be with water! I was thinking about the physical damage this whole time haha.

[@epec20]

Did you varnish over the paint?

[@drewfoster1493]

Im a painter. Dont varnish over paint. Thats not a thing. Get quality paint from Sherwin Williams, not Home Depot... Sherwin Williams water based Alkyd is a good option.

[@drewfoster1493]

But... a good primer first is a must otherwise you might as well buy cheap paint if you're not going to prime it. The paint and primer in one is a marketing ploy and is not the same as a primer.

[@AmandaGPPhilipson]

Agree with above comment. This is a brilliant and much-needed video. And I’m also a painter and I always use an alkyd primer. Every time I use a primer and for cabinets and trim I only use the alkyd paint.

[@michelemize]

Wow, what a difference! I really appreciate your step-by-step and explaining the terminology. I'd love to see a video about how you'd replace cabinet hardware with pulls that are a different size. I'm wondering if it's possible to fill old holes without repainting all the drawer fronts. The painting part seems daunting when trying to match the factory finish on the cabinet boxes.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! That’s a great tutorial idea! I’ll write it down! Thanks for sharing!

[@hannahzingapan9425]

Can you please make video on how you paint those beautiful doors..

[@omarsanchezjr9047]

Bro you are a freaking monster!!! Looks a million times better and you can see the hard work put in.

[@WoodNerds]

I really appreciate that man! Thanks for the kind words!

[@stevevogt866]

I finally found a wood working video that keeps the basics BASIC. You had me with the Metallica T-shirt. I am looking at renovating my kitchen and bathrooms and this video gave me a touch of confidence and encouragement. THANK YOU. 🍺🍻

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! Thank you. I appreciate it! Glad the video was helpful! Good luck with your project! Cheers man!

[@ConsueloFoster]

Kudos! this tutorial made it seem so simple and achievable. The best part was how affordable and accessible the materials were.

[@eddiekenn]

Of all the videos I've watched about making shaker doors, you have done the best job. Yours is clear and concise, and easy to understand. My plans are to help my nephew build new doors for his kitchen to replace the ones they lost in the 2016 flood in South Louisiana. I am looking forwarding to tackling this project. Thanks again!

[@WoodNerds]

I really appreciate that! Thank you for the compliments! That’s awful! Sorry to hear they got hit by that flood. I hope your project goes smoothly!

[@danieraye30]

I'm literally STILL rebuilding/recovering from the flood which is why I'm watching this.... so tragic 😥 God bless and Merry Christmas best wishes to you and your family

[@rockybrenner]

I have been enjoying my woodworking for DECADES...... Your presentation was very well done. You have common sense shop skills..... and you are easy to listen to.. NICE JOB....

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! That is a big compliment! I really appreciate it! Thanks for watching Rocky!

[@RooneyAnneJames]

You are a saint for including terminology!

[@WoodNerds]

Haha thank you! I was hoping it would be helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@rachelmruizmsw3346]

​@WoodNerds It is so neat to see how you work! I couldn't do it, I pay my bother in law but we are still learning. You are a true pro!!!

[@WoodNerds]

That’s so nice! Thank you, but I have a lot to learn as well! Always a student. You guys will get there!

[@bryanhill6274]

Thanks!

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! First super thanks I’ve gotten! Thank you so much! I appreciate it!

[@namenotavailable11]

For an even easier build, cut out the drawer/door front from the sheet and "apply" your rails and stiles using 1/8" MDF or hardboard strips. When you sand and paint the edge, any seam disappears. You get the exact same look for a fraction of the work.

[@WoodNerds]

Someone else just shared this tip! I’m definitely a fan of less work! Thanks for watching and taking time to share some info. I’ll be trying this method out as well.

[@marlaplunk2833]

Agreed. I used that same method to replace a lower cabinet lazy susan door using a 1/2 inch slap with 1/8 inch overlays to create the "styles" look on the outside.

[@TheBestAsianGamer]

How would you apply the rails ?

[@marlaplunk2833]

@@TheBestAsianGamer I just used wood glue. Best to cut all of the pieces (slab, rails, styles) slightly over your final dimensions. Glue on the rails/stiles and them trim the whole door on the table saw.

[@naasking]

A good idea, but the door would be somewhat heavier no? Probably not enough to make much difference.

[@TimG...]

Thank you for the helpful info 👍

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! Thank you, Tim! I appreciate it!

[@EkhoProductions]

I work in one of the largest US cabinet manufactures and we make TONS of doors out of MDF. Seal them properly and they will last forever!

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you for the info and your experience level! Same with my experience. If water can’t get to it, it’s a non issue.

[@lega78]

This is exactly what I was going to say before I started reading the comments "Seal them properly and they will last forever."Thanks

[@jjpoissant]

Can you share the finishing process you use: Glue the panels? Caulk the joints? Any sanding, priming? What finish material?

[@PaulPaid]

The way this guy talks is so calming...lol.

[@WoodNerds]

Haha thanks man!

[@fredrickmolicov8673]

This was one of the most helpful videos on cabinet doors I've seen. It didn't miss the small stuff that when I first started wouldn't have thought about. Keep up the good work!

[@WoodNerds]

I really appreciate that! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!

[@BR-lp6rf]

Very cool. As a professional cabinet finisher, my only critique would be to caulk after primer. Well done

[@WoodNerds]

Professional critique appreciated! I’ll write that down for future projects! Thanks for sharing your experience and for watching!

[@AmandaGPPhilipson]

A professional painter here too and I am 100% agree you have to caulk after priming. Also, spend some money on your caulking because whether it’s MDF or wood everything does expand and contract to some degree. So using a caulking that doesn’t dry out and have some flexibility to it makes the world of difference

[@WoodNerds]

@user-vq6dn6qq9b thank you Amanda! I appreciate the tips!

[@e.collins2768]

​@@AmandaGPPhilipsonwhat would you recommend? I was under the assumption all paintible caulking had flexibility

[@bstrutton]

@@AmandaGPPhilipson Any particular caulking you like for the purpose ? Thx!

[@AppleTony3]

Hey Tyler! Great, reassuring video. I’m currently in a place with extra blah “landlord special” kitchen cabinetry made only of 3/4” MDF (cut plain, with no rails or styles present at all - just raw sheet painted poorly all around, and with too-tight tolerances). Even that crap has mostly held up for probably a decade, although the tight gaps have created a few rub spots in the paint, which then allowed some moisture in, which then bubbled the edges on doors directly under the sink 🤬. I thought I would need to go with poplar for my next kitchen, but your video really drove home how being careful about it will yield great results.

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! I’m glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for the support and for taking the time to share your thoughts! I hope the new ones come out well! Good luck with your new doors!

[@MrPCLY]

I love that you describe what you used at the end of the project.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you for the feedback! I’ll keep doing this! Thanks for watching!

[@elkwood_studio]

I just wanted to thank you for a great video. I did struggle, A LOT, with cabinetry. You really made it simple and easy to understand. THANKS

[@WoodNerds]

Making things is a huge struggle haha. Thank you! Glad the video was helpful! Thanks for watching and interacting with my videos, I really appreciate it!

[@tonynguyen632]

I’ve been following you for a few years now and you can see the progression of your videos. We’ll done, love to see you blossom! Keep it up!

[@WoodNerds]

Hey Tony! That’s really motivating, thank you! And thanks for following along. More to come! Cheers!

[@deborahkaplan2379]

Dude, where do you live? Would love for you to come help me do some construction work in my house

[@roostercogburn6469]

Excellent video! Super great! I really appreciate how meticulous you are from start to finish. I am a beginner with an ol lady handicap. I'm fairly knowledgeable with certain steps, it's the gathering of everything I'm going to need, like types of hinges,this and that etc.. I'm not confident I'll choose the right brand, product etc.so many choices. And the worst part for me is give a set of instructions and I will find 20 ways to mess it up first. Show me once maybe twice no matter the difficulty, I'm good. I work the the way you do, like how you check 1 way, then turn it over check again, and taking extra measures. Insurance for added assurance. The drawer front clamps plus the additional blocks for the sides, then the doohicky for the space and the bottom board to insure the 1st front was even with door bottom ,I'm OCD and :within tolerance"is not good enough and will drive me nuts. I mean you are super efficient you offer ways to help others avoid mishaps and your well prepared! 100% Thank you!

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you so much! I appreciate the compliment and feedback. Being very specific and cautious is a pro and a con haha. Thank you for watching and taking time to write out your thoughts! Good luck with your projects!

[@charlesschuster7963]

Get your hinges first, then a drill jig that will match the hinges you get.

[@csimet]

I'm doing something similar for my kitchen remodel... but I'm going with 3/4" poplar R&S with either 1/2" inset plywood or MDF panels to give them some "beef." Most of the cuts are with the table saw, but I'm using a Freud R&S shaker set to mill the inside edges to achieve a beveled look (Freud 99-762). A bit more classy looking in my case. Biggest tip I gleaned... cut your stiles about 1/4" long. After assembly, run the doors through through the table saw to trim the ends flush (top and bottom) and make them dead square by removing about 1/8" from both ends. The little you take off the rails will not be noticeable and make for perfect edges with no need to hand sand them very much.

[@WoodNerds]

Those are great tips! I’ll be giving that a try. I like processes like that. They allow you to be human and clean up the tiny mistakes afterwards. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience!

[@jessesimmons5436]

How'd using poplar go? I thought about the same thing while watching the video, but wasn't sure if it would be too soft to hold up to kitchen use.

[@csimet]

@@jessesimmons5436 Very well. Since I pained mine, the finish came out great. Poplar is easy to sand and paint.

[@katieaune4806]

Great video! Seriously, really well done. I am a novice and sometimes they go over my head early in. Also, the background music you have is a great choice. I don't need to stress out to heavy metal while trying to learn. Your instructions are great. I might need to buy a table saw now.

[@WoodNerds]

I really appreciate it, Katie! A table saw changed everything for me and my ability to build. There are a lot of options for any budget. In the mid range, DeWalt has an excellent job site table saw that a buddy of mine has that I recommend. I believe it’s their DWE7491 model (10”). I also wanted to thank you for the drink! I’ll be having that today haha. Cheers and good luck with your projects! Hope to hear from you again!

[@mindovrmatter33]

The extra style trick for marking the cabinet side hinge points was one of the best tricks I have seen! Def sending a beer your way!

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! Thank you! I’m glad that stuff is helpful. I’m trying to add as much value as possible to my videos. People being so supportive like this is super motivating! I really appreciate it! Cheers and good luck with your projects!

[@rickhoupt6933]

Wow , finally some helpful tips without needing a million dollars in tools to do the job. Thanks new sub.

[@WoodNerds]

Hey Rick! I appreciate you watching, man! Cheers!

[@rickhoupt6933]

@@WoodNerds you briefly showed your miter saw stop block, do you have link for that. I didn’t see it in the list. I have a large 52” x 48” recessed niche in my wall that I’m going to use your method to create some barn doors for it and put on barn door bifold hardware and that stop block would come in handy thank you

[@WoodNerds]

@rickhoupt6933 dude! It’s the “toughbuilt s600 miter saw stand” I can’t find it anywhere now. It’s the best one I’ve seen. I even contacted the company to ask about it going missing and they said it would be back soon but haven’t seen it since.

[@rickhoupt6933]

@@WoodNerds I have the Ridgid 12” dual bevel with rolling stand. Haven’t taken out of box yet, not sure if it has one. I’ve been doing construction stuff for 42 years just mostly rough and trim stuff. Getting ready to do a big wainscot job( stain grade) in my house so gathering tools and knowledge. After that a library. I greatly appreciated feedback.

[@WoodNerds]

I’m sure it does! Been doing a lot of trim style work myself. Working on a grid wall for my wife right now (basically board and batten but the entire wall). That miter saw and stand has been great for stuff like that. A library sounds really cool! Hope it goes well man!

[@azammohammed5795]

I actually like the way you explain yourself, and you do a very good job at the demo.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you for the feedback and for watching! I appreciate it!

[@aaronbibb7028]

Did this 7 years ago in my kitchen. Built all the cabinet doors and drawer faces out of MDF. Painted with SW alkyd enamel. Worked awesome. MDF dulls blades quickly though.

[@WoodNerds]

Still enjoying ours! You’re not wrong! It’s really dense! Thanks for commenting man!

[@weekendhomeprojects]

When the great philosopher, Dwayne Carter Jr. said "Real G's move in silence, like Lasagna"...he was indeed referring to this gentleman. Nicely crafted video my G.

[@WoodNerds]

Haha I’m flattered! Might have to get that quote tattooed now. Thanks for watching and for the compliments, man! Cheers!

[@ZovaBe]

😂😂😂

[@dkbfarms7827]

Found your videos randomly, friggen love your calm nature and simple instructions. Thanks man!

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks man! I really appreciate that! More content to come!

[@wsfwsf1497]

If you're making door stiles/rails with MDF, use Blum Inserta hinges, or at least the ones that use a nylon dowel. The screw type eventually loosen over time. When that happens the screws lose their grip.

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks for the tip! I’ll check those out!

[@ftenacious]

The Inserta is only available on frameless hinges, but they do have face frame adapter plates. (The Compact series face frame hinges do have the dowel option.) I’d recommend checking out Blum’s hinge book - they have a matrix under each hinge/application to get the right drill distance/plate height to achieve your desired overlay. And be aware that your max overlay with most frameless hinges is going to be around 3/4” - 7/8”. If you have a face frame application with larger overlays you’ve got to stick with the Compact series face frame hinges. Side note, if your doors are closing too slowly you can switch off the soft close on one of your hinges. I had to do that on my (very light) kitchen cabinet doors.

[@craigbridge6538]

Didn’t take long to realize home depo paint is garbage. So I started watching what the pros are using. I like your video no showboating just straight up goods. Thank you.

[@WoodNerds]

That’s a great point! Mostly why I left it out haha I can get a nice looking outcome but the products do matter and I’m not one to give recommendations without knowing the “why” behind it. Thanks for the feedback!

[@jimhatch5873]

MDF (water resistant type) is pretty standard in Europe & the UK. Has been for years. A good hard paint/lacquer finish is key to keeping them from environmental effects but they'll outlive the normal cabinet lifespan within a home before they're replaced for aesthetic or style reasons not because they're damaged or performing poorly.

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks for watching and the info, Jim! It’s not as popular here in the states but I can’t find a downside for mdf as a paint grade cabinet door - especially if you’re making them yourself. We’ve had no issues with ours.

[@gergemall]

Wonderful ❤

[@joseph7105]

Came here to say this. You MUST use moisture resistant MDF for cabinet doors. Regular MDF will not hold up for more than a couple seasons in this scenario. You're going to have a lot or angry customers calling you in a year or 2

[@earlhurick4629]

What about MDO? Can you use that?

[@peterfitzpatrick7032]

​@@joseph7105 if its PROPERLY sealed before painting, how can it get moisture-damaged ?... 🙄

[@colinchapman9534]

Thank you for the time it took to make the great video. I enjoyed the way you took the effort to explain and film your methods, without leaving much in the way for others to try to figure out. Great job!

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks Colin! Trying to make content to help those learning to make. Without all the details, it can be difficult! I appreciate you taking time to share. Thanks for watching! Cheers!

[@jenna6256]

Not sure how I got here, but nice work. You earned a thumbs up

[@WoodNerds]

Hey, Jenna! Thank you! I appreciate you taking the time!

[@caseyjones466]

What a well put together video. Normally someone shows you how they did something, but doesn't explain crap. I'm not a professional contractor that knows about and has high end unobtainable tools not commonly available for diyer's. They have tools that are only available online instead of at a big box store for the general public. Also, you explained what you used an why. Awesome. You have a new subscriber.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you, Casey! I try to make my videos around techniques anyone can use. I really appreciate you taking time to provide feedback and for subscribing! Good luck with your projects! Cheers!

[@billymacmakes]

Love that tip about the extra rail with the hardware! I can see how that makes lining everything up so much easier! Thanks.

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! So much easier! Thanks for watching and taking time to say something! I appreciate it. Cheers man.

[@kleincarpentry1438]

Absolutely! Definitely a hot tip!

[@zachtutor7998]

Finally, a good video on making shaker cabinet doors!!!! So impossibly hard to find - Thank you!!!

[@WoodNerds]

Hey Zach! Of course man! Glad it was helpful! Let me know how yours turn out! Thanks for watching and responding! Cheers!

[@rachelbee7921]

You are incredibly thorough and I appreciate the camera angles and graphics provided. YOU ROCK!! 👌🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you for mentioning that Rachel! I spent extra time on those pieces of the video to help make it clear haha. Thanks for noticing!

[@dawnc5797]

This is an EXCELLENT video. Thank you for taking the time to actually show us how you did the different steps instead of glossing over the visuals and just talking about it. I was super excited to try this for out cabinet doors and drawers only to discover our drawer fronts do not come off like yours does. They're somehow dovetailed into the drawer sides which defies logic as we live in an older mobile home. Evidently a top-of-the-line model from the manufacturer buys you the "fancy" drawer face mounts. 🤯 Now I need to refigure my plan. We only have four drawers in our kitchen but if we change the doors we have to change the drawers. Thanks for the humor as well. And the lack of annoying music. We're so overstimulated in today's society that it's nice to just listen to a dude talk about what he's doing without unnecessary music cut in every time you're not talking. Major thanks for that! Also, if you ever decide to build cabinet carcasses I am 200% interested in watching that happen. We inherited my husband's grandmother's house that had to be completely gutted to have many things brought up to code. We want to build our cabinets and have watched other videos but haven't found one we really like. If you don't plan to build any but know of a solid video to watch, please let me know.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you Dawn! I do plan on making a cabinet carcass video in the future but there are a bunch of great ones out there already so don’t wait on me to learn and remodel your place! I really appreciate the support and feedback! I hope your projects turn out great! Cheers!

[@papiwe1]

I made some doors using a slot cutter on router table. They turned out good.

[@WoodNerds]

That would be a great option as well. I might have to get myself a couple bits to give it a try! Thanks for watching and for the suggestion!

[@deepakdgreat]

Dude, this was awesome! have been watching videos for past 5 years. Yours is just gold !

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! I really appreciate the compliment! I have some cool builds planned for the near future! Hope to get them out this year!

[@thaught9475]

Excellent video! Content, comedy, production, etc. were all really well done. I agree with you on using MDF. People say it's garbage or not for jobs like this, but I've used MDF for tons of projects, and I've been surprised at how versatile can be. Side note, I don't think you mentioned it in the video, but they sell a formaldehyde free MDF/HDF so you don't have to worry about offgassing toxic chemicals. I learned of the material recently from a knowledgeable guy and thought I'd share it here. Cheers!

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks man! I really appreciate the feedback! Great points! I like to over engineer things but sometimes the deciding factor is how much money you have in your pocket vs the practical use of the component you are planning to build. If going cheaper isn’t going to cause a failure then why not? Cheers brother!

[@benjaminfisher750]

So glad I saw this video - been racking my brain trying to figure out how to make my drawer faces straight. Great tips!

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you Ben! I appreciate you watching and taking time to say something! Hope your projects go smoothly! Cheers man!

[@KyleTaylorLucas]

Wow! Thanks so much for this awesome video! You answered my concerns about MDF HDF and you actually used both the color I want on my new cabinets and the hardware. So pretty!

[@WoodNerds]

Hey! I’m glad my video was helpful! Thank you so much for taking time to respond! It means a lot! Good luck with your project!

[@Young937phoenix]

I bought this kreg jig for my old door to install soft close hinges and it was awesome and made it a breeze. But I would love to switch all my doors a drawers to this style but my cabinets are oak but now painted ultra gloss white and I mixed 1 to 1 on ultra white wall paint and a gloss clear coat and it made a great finish and it self levels when using a brush and it cleans so easy to keep it all clean.

[@WoodNerds]

That’s awesome! Nothing like an easy to use finish technique! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment man! Cheers!

[@burgbuilds]

Dude, can I just say, this video is so good. I was skeptical at first with the MDF. But man! How thorough you were in your explanations, SO many tips and tricks I learned that I will absolutely use, even went as far as buying different clamping systems so you can offer us the best possible products. What clinched it for me was the donut. I burst out laughing. Top notch content my friend. Thanks for the video.

[@WoodNerds]

Man! That’s a serious compliment! I’ve been testing MDF in different ways for a while now and I’ve been surprised with every test. It’s not black walnut like that sick speaker box you made but it’ll put up with a good level of abuse. I really appreciate it man! More videos in the works!

[@burgbuilds]

@@WoodNerds thanks brother! Yeah that’s an older video lol, life gets crazy and it’s like man, how do you find any time at all to edit this stuff? Hours and hours of editing. But I’ve recently gotten inspired to spend some more time on my YT channel so maybe I’ll be posting some more videos soon as well. time will tell. Cheers brother!

[@WoodNerds]

I’d encourage you to! I watched a couple videos and subbed. I think you make great content. It’d be awesome if it took off but regardless, it’s really cool to look back at projects you worked on and how neat it is to have the whole thing documented. I feel like I learn from my mistakes twice; once in real time, then a second time (which is even more impactful) where I put a video out for potentially thousands of people to see where I documented my own screw up in HD haha. Excited to see more man! Cheers!

[@burgbuilds]

@@WoodNerds I hear you lol. I watch those old videos occasionally and I’m like “man I really made this as hard as possible on myself.” Which is kind of cool, must mean I’ve been learning some stuff 🤷‍♂️

[@WoodNerds]

@burgbuilds haha same for me man. It’s a good sign!

[@mrhobbs5713]

I’ve been in the business for 50 plus years and the second style idea is brilliant.

[@WoodNerds]

That’s a huge compliment! Thank you for saying that. I appreciate you watching and taking time to respond.

[@a1ar127]

Very nice explanations and visuals, making this look like a really professional job. One question/suggestion: on the drawer fronts for the small drawers, since it doesn’t look that you’ll be installing pulls, you might put a slight back bevel on the side stiles (or bottom rail) to make it easier to get your fingers on the drawer to pull it out.

[@WoodNerds]

Dude, that would have been a great idea! I’ll be doing that in the future. My wife didn’t want pulls on these as it seems like it would have been too much gold for the small space. Thanks for watching and the great suggestion! Cheers!

[@Tomcoker1952]

The work is really exceptional. Thanks for a great video and down to earth explanations. Can you share how you painted and what paint/ primer you used on the MDF. Roll/ brush/ or spray? Looks sprayed?

[@Tomcoker1952]

Suggestion: include your wife, her design…pull combo with the paint is awesome. Team up👍

[@WoodNerds]

@Tomcoker1952 thanks man! I don’t really have a choice haha. She’s my go to when we plan to renovate something!

[@darrellradkie1263]

Outstanding video, this was extremely helpful for my kitchen door reno, thank you.

[@WoodNerds]

I appreciate that, Darrell! Thanks for taking time to respond! Cheers!

[@nhiakhang2622]

Subscribed! Cool stuff, clear and easy to understand. Keep up the good work.

[@WoodNerds]

Awesome! Thank you for the kind words, subscribing, and watching! I really appreciate it! Cheers!

[@maximoo1991]

Perfect how-to video with a great explanation of the job and explanation of tools used.

[@WoodNerds]

Glad the video has been helpful! I really appreciate it! Thanks for watching!

[@gmfplatinumkitchenwareandh3870]

Thank you for the great and easy to understand detailed video. I really like how you inform how to " sneak up" on the final cut dimension. I am glad you mention in your notes to use a push stick for safety. I will add if you do not mind: Wear eye, ear and Lexan face mask and dust mask. Always better safe than sorry. A safe shop is a happy shop.....

[@WoodNerds]

Glad you enjoyed it! Absolutely! Those are great additions. I appreciate you watching and taking time to comment!

[@chuckmarch5552]

To install the doors we always used a small spacer block under the bottom hinge to position the doors in the opening. Otherwise great video. I did our kitchen recently for about $300 using a similar method.

[@WoodNerds]

Great tip! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, Chuck! Cheers!

[@AnyM4jorDude]

Thank you for this comprehensive video. This makes tackling my base cabinets very doable.

[@WoodNerds]

I’m glad it was a helpful video! Definitely more intimidating than the reality of the work! Thanks for watching!

[@duncanmacleod7210]

One of if not the best woodworking channels on youtube. Good skills, well articulated, cost saving advice. AND best of all, it's without all the bad language so my 7 year (future woodworker) son can watch and learn. I want him to learn tools and skills not how to speak like a street corner thug. THX so much.

[@WoodNerds]

I’m flattered!!! I appreciate the feedback and the compliments! I’ll be keeping this in mind. Cheers to you and your son! Hope your projects turn out well!

[@Istebrak]

Thank you for all the honest tips. Amazing work!

[@WoodNerds]

I appreciate that! Thanks for watching and taking time to say something! Cheers!

[@jgard30]

Nice work. We refreshed my daughters bathroom earlier this year and used this exact same color combo. That kind of Brushed gold fixtures, with a sage green cabinet. Whenever I go in there I'm surprised how much I like the combination (I'm old enough to remember the 'brass' fixtures of the 80's and swore I'd never install yellow colored fixtures in my house, but here we are). ;0)

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks man! Haha that’s awesome! I wasn’t sold on it right away either but my wife convinced me and I am pretty fond of it now haha. Thanks for watching and taking the time to respond! I appreciate it. Cheers!

[@janeblogs324]

Did you also poison your daughters room with MDF?

[@jori7398]

It’s very pretty.

[@travispierce3777]

I love it. I so said, nope never so I want that brass look in my home. I hated it growing up. Now….well, lesson in being open minded lol

[@jgard30]

@@janeblogs324 Well, as mentioned our cabinets are painted (and therefore sealed), so the only way for her to gain exposure is to eat it. Despite our best efforts to encourage her to ingest the cabinetry, she refuses. So instead we chose to give her scissors and encourage her to run around the house. Felt like it was a more efficient way to undermine her health.

[@marytucker9404]

Wow, great-looking cabinets. You are a smart woodworking guy. Keep up the good work. Forney, TX

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you so much, Mary! Hope all is well in the lone star state!

[@alanpules4105]

Dude, "excellent" video! Thanks for answering most of the questions us "DIY-ers" always wanna ask. Good job! A+ 🤘😎👌

[@WoodNerds]

Of course! Always happy to help! Thanks for watching and taking time to say something! I appreciate it!

[@twfc7]

Great info, Clear and concise with lots of tips. Great video. lol great T shirts also.

[@WoodNerds]

I really appreciate that! It’s a shirt for the people haha. Thanks for watching!

[@CaptainSugarFree]

I have watched a ton of DIY videos over the years. I never comment on any of them but I had to say that this is one of the best videos I have ever watched. Very clear with what you did, how you did it and the tools you used. Thank you for this incredible video!

[@WoodNerds]

Wow! That’s a big compliment. Thanks for watching and taking the time to respond! Seriously motivating! Good luck with your projects! Cheers!

[@jimhinkle7245]

Good stuff. We are redoing our kitchen and bathrooms this coming spring.

[@Andi.Mitchell.Designs]

Cabinets can make you rich, or broke. Attention to detail and quality product will ensure you live in the first category. Great work sir. Keep it up.

[@WoodNerds]

Haha very true! Thanks for watching and taking a moment to say something. I really appreciate it!

[@brandonhartmann9479]

Nicely done! Your method of teaching is informative and entertaining. I will be seeing what else you can teach this old dog.😂😂😂😂

[@WoodNerds]

Hahaha! Thanks man! I appreciate you taking time to watch my videos and leave a comment!

[@MichelleDijares]

Beautiful! I have so many clamps... and I still don't have enough. I love this color, but I'm looking at doing the old (OLD) skool style wood knobs and staining them. Then painting the walls a soft yellow (for the kitchen). Thanks for this!

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you, Michelle! That sounds really cool! All those older colors are coming back haha. Thanks for watching and taking time to respond! Cheers!

[@gordongekko2303]

Wow this is the best Damm tutorial, this should have way more likes and views 👏 Thnx dude , I couldn't have done it without you .

[@WoodNerds]

Much appreciated! Let me know if you run into any issues with the other video. I’d be happy to help!

[@henryworkswoodandmetal]

I wanted to know what your painting process was for these doors…… excellent work, very clear and informative!👍

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! After the prep work in the video, I used a primer/paint base combo that is meant for cabinets/furniture that (from what I gather) is designed to sink deeper into the materials to create a stronger finish. I rolled on using a cabinet roller brush on the flat surfaces, then a bristle brush to get inside the small angles where the panel meets the frame. Many light coats. After the first coat, mdf seems to paint just fine. The first coat gets a little drunk up but after that I didn’t have any issues with it.

[@henryworkswoodandmetal]

@@WoodNerds thanks!

[@WoodNerds]

Of course! Happy to help!

[@arroyo459]

Best tutorial I've seen yet! Definitely a process but the end result is very nice!

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you for the feedback! Trying to make content with all the details so anyone can be successful! Thanks for watching and taking time to comment!

[@JmackL]

Really love your cabinets also. Would love to see a video on how to make them.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! I have a couple plans for some nice cabinets in the future! Excited to get to them. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment!

[@smacfe]

Love the concept. My concern would be the screws for the hinges in the thin MDF stripping over time.

[@peterfitzpatrick7032]

​@@smacfe Drill pilot holes then soak with cyanoacrylate (superglue)...and no need to torque down on those little mofos... 😉 😎👍☘🍺

[@jasonjordan9598]

Awesome video, now i am going to try and tackle cabinets for the first time. Suggestion on the Dewalt, get the 1.5ah power stack battery. You will really like the reduced weight and size.

[@WoodNerds]

Hey Jason! Thank you for the suggestion! I have a few and you’re right, they are awesome! Thanks for watching man!

[@WoodworkingWarrior]

For smaller drawer faces I like to do 2 - 2¼" rails and stiles so the panel is a little bit bigger. Makes it look just a little better. To avoid foot use to hang doors, Kreg makes a jig that clamps to the face frame and makes it so much easier to mount and you can adjust your reveal for the size of your doors.

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks for the advice! I didn’t know they have that tool, I just might pick one up. Cool channel name btw!

[@BL-ut2zz]

Great vid. Could you elaborate more on your painting process? Brush, spray, roll? You can be the best cabinet builder in the world but if your finish is poor it makes absolutely no difference. The finish is as important to the cabinet making process if not more than the actual building

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! I rolled on 4-5 coats of a primer/paint furniture/cabinet base paint. The furniture/cabinet paint has oil in it that helps the paint penetrate and hold up to abuse (from what I understand). I’m definitely no pro and have seen some great tips for painting cabinets in the comments!

[@BL-ut2zz]

Thank you. Pro or no pro, your finish looks excellent. If you hadn't told me that I would have thought you sprayed it.

[@ksirishraja]

​@@WoodNerdswhat is the name of the paint and color code. That.looks great and link for the handles please

[@WoodNerds]

@BL-ut2zz I really appreciate that! The cabinet grade foam roller brushes do a pretty good job!

[@janetrodriguez914]

I love this video. Your cabinets are beautiful. I’m thinking of redoing our bathrooms. Our house is 30 years old and they need refreshing. Love the shaker style. Great job.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you for the compliments, Janet! A bathroom is a great place to try this out on a smaller scale. It’s really not much work for how much of an improvement it made in our space. Good luck with your projects and thank you for watching!

[@tamibc1686]

Where have you been all my life?!! Love seeing someone else who builds using so many templates. And here I thought I was alone. I'll have to check out the rest of your stuff. Thanks.

[@WoodNerds]

Haha I appreciate that! Thanks for watching and taking time to respond!

[@wanderingrn2022]

LOL with the slam man in the background!

[@WoodNerds]

Haha my shop helper!

[@mbulwa42556]

What a great tutorial video. Thank you I'm going to try one from South Africa.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you for the compliment! Hope all is well in Africa!

[@lidiyakruglov]

Very good explanation, thank you! I still have a question: I need to build quite a few doors measuring about 42” long and 16” wide, is it better to use 3/4 thickness instead of half an inch for more stability of the door? And also how many hinges would be needed per door 2 or 3, since doors are tall? Thank you in advance.

[@WoodNerds]

Hey, thanks for watching! If I was making tall doors, I’d go with 3/4” material to be safe. They will be more stable. For the hinges; the hinge manufacturer should have a guide as to what weight/size of door requires what number of hinges, but sometimes it’s hard to find. A general consensus is anything over 40” needs a third hinge and cabinets over 60” might need a fourth. I hope that helps!

[@lidiyakruglov]

Thank you very much for the reply!

[@WoodNerds]

Of course! Good luck with your project! I’d love to hear how it turns out!

[@lidiyakruglov]

I found my comment on your video a year later, what I ended up doing for my project is just flat panel doors from 3/4 mdf sheets, with 3 hinges per door. I was too scared to do all styles and rails with the grooves.

[@WoodNerds]

Hey! Welcome back haha. I hope that worked out well for you!

[@NealosMetropolos]

Man, I'm about to build a full kitchen from scratch and some of these tips are GOLD such as the brackets for mounting drawer faces and that "dummy" stile for door fitment (I'll do the faker shakers and caulk AFTER priming per some comments below). Thanks and subbed.

[@WoodNerds]

Dude! Good luck! I hope those tips save you time and frustration! I appreciate you following along and taking the time to leave a comment. Let me know how they turn out!

[@NealosMetropolos]

@@WoodNerds Thanks man, will do.

[@bontexx1169]

What did you use to paint your doors?

[@dimash244]

Have kitchen at the lake, maple doors with raised insert. it is not a/c in summer and no heat in winter. so temperatures go from -40*C to +40*C :) kitchen is 15 years old and still looks great. I worked at kitchen manufacturing facility for 17 years. Now i service wood processing equipment. Lots of people buy CNC routers to make these style doors, because how popular they are.

[@WoodNerds]

That’s awesome! A CNC would be really cool for making single panel doors! Thanks for watching and taking time to share your experience!

[@speedjunky1321]

Great video. Probably going to be a winter project for me in our master bathroom. If all goes well, we may be doing this in the kitchen...great video keep 'em coming. Also really like that Dewalt driver with the delicate mode. Really interesting.

[@WoodNerds]

Let me know how it turns out! We are very happy with ours. I’ll have to make more soon as my wife wants me to renovate our coffee bar in the near future. I really like that driver! The delicate setting is also great for pocket screws. You can of course set the clutch on your drill but having this feature on the driver has been nice as I often forget what gave me good results on the clutch for different materials/uses.

[@speedjunky1321]

​@@WoodNerds For sure. I showed my wife your video and it's now turned into mostly a laundry and master bathroom remodel. With all new doors and she really liked the color of the cabinets and the gold. However, she's thinking a navy blue with the gold. Keep the content coming. I'm really enjoying your channel.

[@WoodNerds]

I think navy and gold is also a smart match! Dude, thanks for watching and interacting! Much appreciated! More content in the works.

[@catuck1975]

Very nice! I refinished my kitchen 15 years ago in nearly the same method. I cheated a little more though and used 1/4" MDF for rails and stiles over 1/2" MDF doors, glued them together and from the outside looked great. Unfortunately little scratches in the finish over time introduced moisture and the MDF swelled.

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! Hey, if it looks good and lasts 15 years I don’t see a problem haha. Thanks for watching!

[@catuck1975]

True, and it was fun to build!

[@MrPcl78]

Great work, definitely some inspiration for me. Thanks for creating great content. I’ve subscribed and looking forward to more great videos. Cheers!

[@WoodNerds]

Thanks for watching and subscribing! Means a lot! More content in the works! Cheers!

[@Diamond-cr6fx]

Love your music! Not boring to watch!! ❤😊

[@WoodNerds]

Thank you! I appreciate the compliment!