How I designed my modular cabinet system

Thank you for watching!
Plans for the cabinets & drawers:
www.etsy.com/Jerswoodshop/lis... (Dimensions are in metric)
Webpage about the cabinet system:
jerswoodshop.com/cabinet-system/
Build video:
• Modular workshop cabin...
Patreon:
/ jerschmidt

[@Dibblah1900]

Your version of geeking out is absolutely amazing. When you describe why the drawer handles are so slim, ... it blew my mind that this level of thought has gone into it. Really well done.

[@AlForte13]

Yeah...very geeky!!!! thank you

[@dakotamax2]

I hope someday to plan and execute a project this comprehensively. In my opinion, you should manufacture and sell these as customizable kits. Outstanding work!

[@stefang1087]

I think so too. 👍

[@VladislavCantea]

I would buy such a kit

[@devandestudios128]

I too would buy such a kit.

[@IndoWebClass]

totally agree

[@truckguy6666]

Maybe team up with A Glimpse Inside and get the parts laser or CNC cut. I think people would be willing to pay for an RTA style kit.

[@MattsAwesomeStuff]

I'm consistently blown away by your camera and editing work. Every... single... thing... that you talk about, you have B-roll showing perfect framing and lighting of. There were like, hundreds of those in this video. Full production company productions like what you see on HGTV don't have this attention to detail or respect for their viewers. Outstanding as always. Also your hair changed color to match your shirt, interesting new trick.

[@kevinunknown1747]

Too long? Not a chance. I was actually sad when it ended. This was like watching nothing I have ever seen. I can't even think of an analogy. Amazing.

[@lelanddyke8386]

Thank you for not only designing an incredible system of cabinets, but for making such exact subtitles. Surprisingly rare on youtube - and greatly appreciated.

[@mathewselin8704]

Anybody who values your time and, more importantly, values their own time, would understand that $15 for the plans is a small cost. Thank you for all of the details and design considerations.

[@VideoNOLA]

As a mathetician by training, I approve of this video. As an undiagnosed Aspy, I approve of this videomaker.

[@kappagrapes]

This video is everything I hoped it would be. The sheer amount of thought and care you put into these things is a joy to behold. I'm seriously contemplating buying the plans even though I don't in fact have a woodshop, just because maybe someday I will make a friend who does have a woodshop and they will be able to construct these amazing cabinets for me.

[@alexandrealbergaria6224]

the way your brain works is mind blowing - i have no need to building anything you show here but i still watch all of it all the way thru. Just incredible!

[@BadPracticeAutomation]

People explaining their thought process about picking dimensions is my jam. Metric-imperial compatibility is the mega brain strat. Edit: this video is a masterclass. I’ll be watching this over and over.

[@Jer_Schmidt]

I probably should have made the arrow in the thumbnail point at me instead of the cabinets

[@johnnyryall1400]

We are our own worst critic.

[@dakotamax2]

The world needs more like you JS.

[@myhandlehasbeenmishandled]

I like what you did. I'm trying to plan out something like a barrister book case. Many of them were modular. The problem is finding top sliding hinges for such bookcase, they are not common. And i would prefer to find a design for slides, or create one, something made out of wood. So i wouldn't have to rely on something that is hard to find and buy. It looks like barrister book shelves were only popular in early 1900s.

[@nefariousyawn]

I'm not sure what you mean, but I haven't finished the video yet.

[@nefariousyawn]

Okay well I finished the vid and I guess you're referring to your meticulous attention to detail. I really like it. It's a level of ergonomic and functional engineering that can really be appreciated, and I will definitely buy the plans when I am ready to build out my shop. However, I hope you don't let perfectionism get in your way. It can do a number on one's mental health.

[@Jakob728]

I love love love this, so well thought out! Maybe the biggest drawers could have handles in the side walls so its easier to lift the whole box out if something heavy is inside? God i want a shop now, will definitely buy the drawings :)

[@Jer_Schmidt]

That’s a great idea! Thanks

[@lazygardens]

You could cut out an oval in the sidewalls.

[@Itslvle]

So very cool. A clear work of an engineer's mind. I don't care whether you're an actual engineer or even went to elementary school, you're clearly a born engineer.

[@jamesdownes1974]

This is excellent. Whenever I'm designing or building something, I always remember something you said years ago: "if you can't make it perfect, make it adjustable". I've learned a lot from you, and this video will be really helpful. Thank you.

[@Jer_Schmidt]

Thanks! I’m annoyed that I forgot to say that in one of these videos, because that’s really the principle behind this system. I tried to make my previous cabinets “perfect” but that’s impossible when your needs keep changing.

[@peterthepeter7523]

This is a great example of product design - of taking into account various factors, balancing them and making these tiny tweaks that solve noticeable problems.

[@miniclip1371]

Always amazed at how much thought goes into your work

[@jasnmar]

I liked the original build video, but this "geek out" video on the design of your drawer system is just amazing. Not only because of the obvious amount of thought you put into the design, but also the amount of thought that went in to explaining the design. Really amazing work. Thanks so much.

[@RylesJMalone]

I just bought the plans. One day I'll build an entire fleet of these drawers. Awesome work.

[@2dividedby3equals666]

Your level of design is akin to what LEGO does to its blocks. The way they are all compatible and very well structured to work in a multitude of different ways is very astounding. I mostly work with hand tools, it is what I really like, but I will buy the plans and try to incorporate some of it's design brilliance into what I make. I have a huge amount of respect for the work you do, it is second to none. Thank you for taking the time to show the master piece you have created.

[@julianwhitta1114]

It may be that you have, indeed, given away all the thinking and smarts that went into this. But not to this sunburnt old Aussie. Plans bought and paid for! Thoughtful, considered, and considerate (thank you for designing this system to work across both imperial AND metric!) design like this should be both celebrated and rewarded. You’ve managed to solve EVERY storage conundrum I’ve got with my in-progress new workshop. Overjoyed doesn’t begin to describe how happy I am right now.

[@Brad_R_LiveFit]

Absolute winner. I don't often purchase plans from YTers. I tend to get them from my woodworking books, magazines, and equipment manufacturers/retailers. But you so perfectly designed and executed this modular system that I (1) had to get these to use in my upcoming shop remodel, and (2) ensure that you received credit and compensation for your genius. Truly, this system of yours is exceptional. Wonderfully done!!!

[@glenjamindle]

I love how everything you create has so much thought put into it. I would be in analysis paralysis the entire time.

[@gjack2008]

Such a high level thinker. I put him in a similar category with Matthias Wandel. Any time they release a video I watch it even if the project is something that doesn’t immediately peak my interest. Always learn something from his videos.

[@12345678bobster]

It's interesting to note they both have german last names. And germans are known to be very detailed/accurate "measure three times, cut once" type of people. :) Maybe it's in the heritage genes? :D

[@alexanderp4427]

The amount of thought that went into this is absolutely mind blowing.

[@jhalfaro]

The amount of thought and planning put into this is incredible

[@billqqq]

There was one thing you didn't think about.... darned if I can figure it out, though. Excellent design, Jer, and not surprised.

[@alskjflaksjdflakjdf]

Several years ago when I had no money I based my first toolbox off your early drawer designs. The false drawer back and slider on the bottom are still working great even when made with lumber picked from garbage bins. Showing the thought that went in to your design increases the value of your plans and someone can have confidence that the choices you made are good ones. I'm hoping to purchase your plans since I relocated to a different country and am building out a new garage.

[@johnbouttell5827]

Dear Jer, this modular system is marvellous. Like your belt grinder, it deserves a place in the Smithsonian Museum. Best wishes, John

[@BrilliantDesignOnline]

Agreed! 💫

[@latenightwoodworker3283]

Never disappointed with your plans and process. How much thought goes into each project. Just amazing. Did I not say genius already? Genius!!! Got the plans! Gonna read through them thoroughly before executing. Thanks so much

[@OneSingleBreath]

I don‘t know where to begin. I watched your build Video two times, and now this follow up. I was already blown away by the build, but this Video is, just like the cabinets itself, pure genius. I had something similar in my mind. But it would have been way more simple, and not nearly as versatile. On top it would have been massive over-build. But your weight-test blew my mind. So,… I will order your Plans directly after posting this comment. Right now I don‘t have the time and tools to build them,… and even if I will never build them…. creating something incredible like this and on top post two amazing Videos (so far) about it on KZbin needs to be honored. Thank you so much for all of this.

[@OneSingleBreath]

One point I forgot to mention,….. I‘m living in germany. So a BIG thumbs up for providing metric measurements too.

[@Jer_Schmidt]

Thank you!! So glad you like it.

[@watcherofwatchers]

I'm on the cusp of converting my metal outbuilding into a proper shop, and these cabinets are definitely on the table for being utilized. As always, you've put a lot of thought into your creations and have created an extremely interesting design.

[@boatbeard7767]

Trust me, you are not the only one out there who deep dives into the creative process when asked questions... As you said earlier, this is refinements (so far) of previous builds. So it is quite interesting to hear how a thinking designer continues the design process and refines the ideas in that ongoing process. My apprenticeships were in a master craft workshop and design studio - this level of considering the possibilities and concept development is very comfortable for me, hundreds of mornings and endless pots of coffee working out efficiencies and accounting for limitations of materials and tooling, then into the fun building bits... :) Cheers from Oz.

[@jonmoore1614]

What is great about these is that you can easily attach a french cleat to the back as well at any stack row/column combination

[@psguardian]

Whoever suggested the bench top tool storage, hats off! I have that same soldering iron, great bit of kit.

[@perebaucells8312]

Pure. Genius. Period. I am absolutely amazed about the level of detail: everything has a serious purpouse without compromising aesthetics AND it feels absolutely everyone can give this desing a go. I could not figure out a cleverer design for that piece of furniture: simple, eye-pleasing, repeatable, useful and modular. This and the french cleat wall mounting system is everything a shop needs. Congratulations!

[@chuvvyyk]

I don’t have shop/garage. But I want to make this drawers so much! Thank you for sharing all subtleties and nuances with us!

[@johnford7847]

Very well thought-out. I'm moving soon, but I really want to build some of these for workshop storage as soon as I get my shop established.

[@Ziraya0]

The sag test at 16 minutes is really interesting, because presumibly in this configuration one would put some kind of top on the cabinets, and now if each of the boxes is bolted into the top, the top becomes load bearing in a way, and also slightly increases the lever length between the lower side-to-side bolts and the "point" of "rotation" that the bolt is resisting, as now it's in the tabletop somewhere instead of at the top corner between the boxes. With a top you could also assemble it like this, put the top on, put the bolts in, and then loosen the bolts between the cabinets slightly so you can tighten the bolts to the top, before tighting all the bolts again now with it all aligned very well. I really like the design but also it's fun to think about

[@k9elli]

This is absolutely incredible engineering I’m shocked at how much function you crammed into this This is better than most engineers- so much more creative!

[@ashilling9283]

Brilliant! Love your work, Jer! Much appreciation for posting your creations again.

[@ScrewDriverxxx]

Haha. Busted! I was thinking all the way through "all I have to do is write down those measurements, pop into Sketchup and job done". But your comment at the end caught me off guard. The plans are pretty damned cheap and a trivial expense compared to the effort of making a copy plan let alone a copy set of drawers. I doubt if your dimensioning could be improved on for this design and I love that it specifically addresses the physical issues for construction. Really superb work.

[@ktcottrell]

This is absolutely awesome. The amount of thought that went into this design is amazing!

[@joshwarner5676]

This was great! I love seeing the thought that goes into good design. I'm definitely gonna get the plans and will be building some for my shop. The details that you worked through are super well thought out and helpful.

[@ericnicastro]

You’re level of detail and thought that went into this was amazing. It’s so well done!

[@dr_regularlove]

The idea of storable setups for soldering and such is genius.

[@mumblbeebee6546]

Unsurprisingly you put a _lot_ of thought into this system. Great system, if I ever get the chance to outfit a place, I will come back to this design!

[@khoowhy]

So you've essentially designed the LEGO or storage units. Brilliant!

[@TysonCecka]

Thanks for doing a video like this, I love how you go about deciding these numbers. I've done some similar designs meant to be modular but then I forget the reasons why I chose those certain dimensions later on 😝 This is a good way to remember!

[@makernova8160]

The amount of thought and detail you've put into this is impressive and I appreciate it! Thanks for sharing what went into the design!

[@bequemlichkeitsgruen]

Thank you for this in-depth description. It’s super inspiring. I just started wood-working and I learned so many details that have to be considered when designing own furniture. Again: Thank you ❤

[@martynlegg1042]

Truly an excellent, and brilliant concept for multi-positional storage. I love how one can place relevant drawers into one cabinet to move to a specific project or work site. I could see this being developed into van storage for all of us joiners who then have to fit out on-site.

[@bspradley]

Awesome job explaining and walking us through your thought process. This is a great project and I definitely see the benefit of having cabinets like this in my workshop. Thanks!

[@digrat]

It's clear that you've put a whole lot of thought into this. Absolutely incredible project!

[@johnniewalker39]

THANK YOU! Watched it all. The amount of details and thinking and design that went into this... pff WOW

[@Carnac311]

This is amazing. Probably my favorite project of yours since the belt grinder!

[@helmanfrow]

I admire all the forethought and planning. Truly a geek after my own heart.

[@OysteinKarlsenRande]

Love it! Really appreciate the amount of thougt and planning that went into this! Infinately customizable and extendable. You also explain the functions and design decisions really well. Respect. Will buy plans.

[@NWGR]

Jer, amazing job working out all the logistics of the design. I'll be purchasing the plans shortly and am confident this is one of the very few instances where literally zero changes will need to be made to suit my needs. I can just follow the plans,, step by step, word for word and not feel like I could have added or done anything differently to make the cabinets better. Again, amazing job.

[@cudazi]

Unreal amount of thought has gone into this, really amazing, Jer.

[@memyselfandeye1234]

Absolute Respect to you Jer ... love it... as all your work and thought process ... and you honest bs free approach ... So glad you came back to do more videos chap :) all the best ... peace

[@killiemon]

Wow, simply brilliant design work. Thanks for sharing all the thought that went into it!

[@brianshire8351]

🤯 WOW. That is some serious planning. Great job.

[@LemonySnicket-EUC]

Wow ! The time flew right by ! Very impressed with what you have accomplished here. Thank you !

[@strrchristmas]

Great Video. I knew you had put a lot of engineering into these cabinets & drawers, I didn't realize just HOW MUCH! I believe you have covered every angle/issue that has any significant importance. Thank You. With your explanations, I may have figured out how to make the double wide/long tool storage drawer.

[@fbollaert]

Hi Jer, amazing job! The amount of thought you have put in is astounding.

[@StormBurnX]

I'm super glad for this video. I sat down thinking these cabinets were cubes, for some reason, and immediately was delighted to learn yet another new thing (well technically not new but still a great start to what will inevitably be a great video!)

[@JohnGBeckett]

I love the level of thought that has gone into so many aspects of the design. Yes, there are tradeoffs, but they are all good tradeoffs.

[@Brandon-zo9ly]

I love the level of detail that went in to your design, and that you were willing to share it all. I bought the plans even though I don't plan on building the exact design just to support more videos like these.

[@macswanton9622]

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful! Perfectly conceived theme that works everywhere

[@macswanton9622]

Buying the plans is like giving a thumbs up, even if you *think* you don't need to!🤔🙂

[@nadojf]

Like most people who saw your videos, I am amaze by how well those cabinet have been designed. You are certainly someone who could learn from experimenting and from your errors to achieve in the end a great product! Your plans are also very detailled! Thank you!

[@Airisshh]

Amazing! The effort you have but into them. Just amazing

[@LouPeabody]

Will buy the plans once I get my parents' garage cleaned up for a slim wood shop build. Looking forward to using something you've designed! Thanks for your hard work and for sharing, it's a pleasure watching your vids 🌞

[@LowAss720]

I gotta say, every one of your projects is so well thought out. You give reasons why you do things and why you came to that conclusion. This project is fantastic and so versatile. Keep up the good work. And I will be buying plans when I get to this point on my shop remodel.

[@bigburlymikesmswoodworking]

The amount of time and thought that went into the design of this modular system is impressive. Well done!!

[@Exodus5K]

I'm impressed at the ingenuity that went into this Jer.

[@marianam8643]

Wonderful Work. Incredible to see the amount of thought that went into this.

[@jonnybo20]

I'm still glad I purchased the plans and blown away at how much thought you put into this! It will be some time before I can get back into the shop but I look forward to building these and happy to nerd out on your process. Maybe pull this video and add it to your plans purchase? Great work either way

[@Ede74]

thanks for sharing the thoughts that went into building this system.. nice to hear some metric dimensions :)

[@JaniLahtinen]

Beautiful. Just beautiful! Excellent design.

[@Wood_Slice]

Superbly explained with reasoning behind it all. Kudos. 👍

[@PunkR0ckz09]

This is an AWESOME explanation of a FABULOUS design! I'll be making this for sure! Probably will buy the plans in 2 or 3 months when its less cold outside (Thanks Canada!).

[@mststgt]

What a thoroughly overthought concept - I love it 😍 Will seriously consider building those when finally having my workshop!

[@mststgt]

And, in my humble opinion, you should consider not only selling those plans but finding a company to produce this furniture and sell it. I think it could be a design classic in no time 😃

[@phoenixwerks4585]

Thank you so much for the system and the videos. I had been racking my head trying to figure out a way to make a ton of drawers with options and not go insane ... enter your system and my anxiety is gone. Bought the plans and can't wait to start building my shop out. Thanks!

[@bwillan]

Amazing the thought process that went into the design and dimensions. It's no wonder it took that much time to produce the video and final plans. Great job.

[@stdafx]

Oh my, it’s so brilliant!! Now I want to redo all my shop cabinets. And now, seeing the design, I don’t mind spending a fortune for baltic birch for this beautify! Thank you so much for sharing your design and thoughts!!

[@nunyabizness6734]

This really satisfies my OCD. Nice work!

[@redsquirrelftw]

This is such a genius idea. I've seen several similar ones but this is probably one of the best ones I've seen. I definitely want to build something like this once I setup my shop. I'd use it for all sorts of things from raw electronics part, computer parts, and actual shop stuff too. Has tons of uses.

[@b3arwithm3]

Very comprehensive explanation mate 👍 I wouldn’t think one would need to put so much thought into making a cabinet. Kudos!

[@mayflowerlash11]

This is an extraordinary amount of forward planning. Most shop workers would just wing it. But then they would have regrets at some time later. The planning is awesome. I like the modular idea and the flexibility in the way they are combined.

[@jayfoster5756]

THANKS for geeking out for us, I thoroughly enjoyed hearing your thought process! Thank you for sharing. Now you have me totally rethinking how I am redesigning my workshop. I purchased your plans.

[@sapelesteve]

Obviously well thought out & excellent design Jer. Thanks for showing us how you put all of this together. If I decide to put cabinets like those in my shop, I will definitely purchase your plans! That's why I am bookmarking this video! 👍👍😉😉

[@mrskwrl]

I don't know, this video gave me a little faith in humanity. It's thoughtfulness like this that really accentuates the joys of living. Some genius stuff. Can't wait to see your upcoming creations.

[@gbalock]

What an excellent piece of engineering. I cannot wait to buy the plans and make my own set. ❤

[@nefariousyawn]

I like your soldering station idea. My soldering equipment lives in a drawer because I don't use it that often, but that means I have to pull all the stuff out each time I use it.

[@keteveo]

being geek-design my favourite part of building a new piece of furniture, this video is AMAZING!!! Thanks for sharing all the variables you considered on design and testing. There's a lot to learn from your creation process.

[@fernandoabela8549]

Wonderful work, thoughtful design, and absolutely great teaching. I'm so glad I found you as you are now one of my top KZbin woodworkers; keep it up Jer and I'm sure your channel will explode exponentially once people find you.

[@denniskomeshak9082]

I bought your plans after watching the first video. Not sure if I'll ever get around to using them, but I was really impressed with the thought you put into the design that I wanted to support that. Please keep it up and share.

[@stevenrausch3085]

Great design, well thought out. Thanks for the detailed update.

[@markhedquist9597]

Well, I bought the plans per your last video. The cabinet design is awesome. As are all of your other designs. Thanks for the extended video here. It helps to hear all the reasoning and logic behind the design. Now I can't find reason to alter anything while building mine. Your logic is sound, to me.

[@dsdragoon]

Your cabinets have a great design. Thank you fror sharing them.