Why don’t more people build Kitchens like this?

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Rockler Products used in this video
Rockler Deluxe Panel Clamp www.rockler.com/rockler-delux...
JIG IT® Hinge Plate Template A www.rockler.com/jig-it-reg-hi...
Rev-a-Shelf Tip-Out Tray Stainless Steel with Soft-Close Hinges www.rockler.com/rev-a-shelf-t...
Rockler Pro Lift Router Lift www.rockler.com/rockler-pro-l...
Rockler Sure-Foot® Aluminum Bar Clamps www.rockler.com/surefoot-alum...
Rockler 3-Piece Silicone Glue Application Kit www.rockler.com/rockler-3-pie...
Rockler Centerline Lifetime Soft-Close Undermount Drawer Slides www.rockler.com/centerline-li...
Rockler Bandy Clamps www.rockler.com/rockler-bandy...
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[@MichaelAlm]

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[@mikematthaus6531]

My tip would be to order some more of those handles, put them in a bag with a note saying "kitchen" and never touch them unless you have to replace one. Because more often than not after 3+ years you´ll either be unable to order them anymore or there was a design change so the new ones wouldn´t match (or even fit). Always good to have a few spare handles and grips just in case so you don´t have to redo everything if one of them breaks/bends/whatever.

[@Karaon]

that's a valid point but I would add 1 thing - hide it in the kitchen not workshop

[@clintmsmith]

I live in a spec build neighborhood that is relatively new and when someone was throwing out a cabinet (in pieces) I checked the handles and, sure enough, they matched mine. Stripped those handles and brought them home for exactly that reason.

[@mewmew32]

that's called attic stock, and pretty sure it's not something you need to tell a professional cabinetmaker about.

[@free2beme773]

@@mewmew32 I think it is great to point out things like that. Even if the maker knows, other people may not. I worked for a professional reproduction cabinet maker and they were always glad to have me give my ideas. We all can learn something from each other at some point.

[@giftotter]

Amazing work! One suggestion for a huge quality of life improvement regarding the trash cabinet: You can route out a small gap on the bottom of the cabinet, which will be covered by the drawer front, so it will be completely invisible. It would allow you to hook your foot behind it and open the drawer without touching it when having messy hands. I've done that in my kitchen and it became easily one of the most used features. If you want to get fancy with it, you could also achieve the same with some kind of lever mechanism, having a part of the toekick board be a secret push button.

[@MichaelAlm]

This is such a good idea!!! I'm totally going to add that in.

[@giftotter]

​@@MichaelAlm Looking forward to see your take on it! You will be wondering how you've been living like a caveman, opening trash bins by hand :) I'm having trouble posting links in comments, but I got the original idea by Homesteadonomics on YT. You can find his video of a simple lever design if you search: Cabinet Door Opener - Kick to Open

[@tylerpestell]

That is such a good idea! Will definitely be doing that in my future house!

[@williamludwick77]

I would also add something to provide odor "protection", beyond the wood divider. Maybe a way to attach removable air fresheners of some kind since it will be enclosed inside the cabinet. Could be something simple, attached to the underside of that divider.

[@olivier.gauthier]

Totally agree. Our trash cabinet is an old trash compactor with a pedal operated drawer front (came with the house when we bought it) and I'm definiteley keeping the idea for when I remodel our kitchen.

[@keithleonard5085]

Beautiful, but I think I’d call the design “fluted” rather than “louvered”…

[@nikiley]

I came to the comments looking for this. Yes, louvers are individual slats that allow air flow to pass between them like a louvered door or to be operated in unison to open or close like a louvered window. The custom fluting details and integrated handles on these cabinet fronts are chef’s kiss. I’m curious to see how the larger fronts are stabilized since typical slab door/drawer fronts are veneered.

[@Karaon]

Correct, tho flutes are like rounded ribs that stick out, although in this situations I think it's also a valid name.

[@emceeboogieboots1608]

Yeah, that's a better term, I was trying to think of this myself knowing what louver means, at least here in Oz

[@leehaelters6182]

@@Karaon, fluting is always concave, reeding is convex.

[@danielmierop662]

Retired locksmith and wood worker. Thank You for the “ run the hole saw reverse first then forward , prevent chip out”. Wish I thought of that years ago and while teaching others new to the trades.

[@swathisukumar9855]

When you were fitting in the handles and putting in those extra effort to make that snug fit, I was just grinning at your craftsmanship and attention to detail! Love your work ♥️

[@jamesgregsy]

Looks incredible, on the trash cans though: I would get smaller cans, it's going to be annoying to pull them out/pull out the bin liners, with them stuck against each other. I would prefer they hang freely on a mid section, so you can move them independently 😊

[@HobbieJ]

This. It was literally the only “miss” I’ve ever seen of his designs. Which hey, for the 4 years I’ve been watching, is an impressive ratio. I make far more misses than that 😂

[@zafnor]

I made mine with the retainer box having a bottom and holding the bottom of the bin, therefore I can pull the liner out and replace it without removing the bin. I can also compact the contents without further wedging the bin into the retainer box.

[@MrSpleenboy]

You should make a wheely ladder (you know, the ones you get in old libraries) to get at those clamps and the other high up things 😃

[@MichaelAlm]

That thought has entered my mind. In fact Rockler makes a kit for it 😂

[@MrKnotWright]

Did anyone else cringe when the chisel scratched the plywood finish?

[@MichaelAlm]

I did 😂

[@MrKnotWright]

@@MichaelAlm VERY impressive kitchen cabinets!! Awesome job!

[@j10001]

7:04

[@SimonSideburns]

Yep, just saw that bit and ouch.

[@sum124get2]

Im a Dutch kitchen desinger and I'm watching your work with so much mixed emotions. The woodwork is incredible. The louvers are beautiful and you're using the proper rails and hinges (european ;-) ) But than, I saw you working with these toe-kicks, cut out a corner in the side panel, putting the back of the cupboard all the way against the wall without leaving any space behind it, having the handles on doors on a different direction than in the drawers, using panels of so many different sizes on a kitchen which is barely 2,5 meters long.. Devil is in the details but I really think you can make your kitchens that much greater if you just had some little tips on things which are quite common here. Once again, your work is amazing. Technically there isnt much out there which matches the quality and detail I see. There are some tips however which makes you life a hole lot easier when installing the kitchen

[@dialog_box]

that thumbnail is so needlessly funny 😂

[@Triple_D__]

I just realized that lol thanks for pointing it out

[@aarondyck6521]

So calming to watch the craftsmanship at work here

[@freethebirds3578]

A little too calming. I dozed off twice and had to rewatch it!

[@nomoretwitterhandles]

I absolutely LOVE how this turned out!! Side note, but because of your previous sponsorships with Milanote, I ended up giving it a try because I'm SO disorganized... and I love it! The reason I tried it is because the planner website I used to use was a bit clunky, and the support staff quit responding to customers years ago. Milanote has such a cute aesthetic and it has been a wonderful replacement! Your endorsements mean a lot to busy artists like me; you really seem to understand the importance of workflow. Thanks man!

[@user-st6vv8om3m]

In a tiny kitchen, it would be incredibly useful to utilize the toe kick space, especially with the care that you built them. It is perfect as a drawer for baking sheets, pizza pans and trays. I have one in my kitchen and wish I had more.

[@clintmsmith]

Interesting idea. Don’t know enough about cabinets to know how that would work, but could see how that would add otherwise wasted space.

[@jvmiller1995]

for those who do not understand why he scrapes the dried glue prior to using his thickness planner, is that lumps of hard glue will chip the blades of the planer. Not sure it will on indexable carbide but it will on HSS blades.

[@greglamphier4430]

Tape on the router table is a great idea 🙏🏻

[@denisewascavage209]

To all the people with negative comments, Sometimes it’s Okay to keep them to yourself, because you know the most energetic thing your doing is watching this video and typing because your definitely not doing!!! So be kind !

[@j1ones11282]

When screwing into dense woods with questionable screws i try to wax the screw with some candle wax or paste wax and that really helps reduce the breaking of the screw.

[@this2ismyname]

And if it's not obvious, pre-drill the holes for the screws

[@Karaon]

basic soap works nice, so i keep a bar in the shop for that and many more uses

[@ajw148]

DUDE. YOOOOOO. Ive been watching so many cabinet videos because im gonna do it myself. But ive noticed everyone always do the same old thing, shakers and such. I wanna do either something similar to yours with louvers or parametric cabinet and drawer fronts. Good stuff man. Im loving this.

[@HelyaRavn]

What an absolute dream of a kitchen you're building there 😍

[@MichaelAlm]

Thank you!!

[@bradleytuckwell4881]

Little jealous with your fit around the pipes and electrical box it is perfect I don’t think I’ve ever seen one that good apart from that the kitchen is looking stunning I love the sponge tray to its a brilliant idea. Thanks for always creating great content it’s always an easy watch

[@quietleaf]

Hell yea my favorite woodworking/homebuilding series rn

[@MichaelAlm]

Thank you!!

[@SHKEKEKE]

I installed the sponge hardware after cabinets installed! Smart doing it before countertops

[@MichaelAlm]

I can only imagine how challenging that is 😳

[@woodhound27]

Michael Nice cabinets. I have had to deal with red oak and white oak color difference in the past. if you pre-stain the red oak with Minwax Fruitwood you will not be able to tell the difference when your final finish is on. Keep up the good work.

[@luakhurst208]

A sculpture background. It all makes sense now. Hallelujah for the arts. Chapeau Monsieur

[@ericheft6184]

Looks amazing. I like the black handles. Gives the front a little accent. I love the sponge tray. That is a great use of the space.

[@LocustGroveWoodcraft208]

I'm sponsored by Velocity Screws...let's get you set up!

[@draztiqmeshaz6226]

The sound of thin oak strips being ripped on a table saw is terrific, in the true sense of the word!

[@leehaelters6182]

I think that he did it sensibly and safely; I don't see why you were terrified.

[@draztiqmeshaz6226]

@@leehaelters6182 even when I do it, that sound just makes me think any second the piece is just gonna come ripping away

[@leehaelters6182]

@@draztiqmeshaz6226, fair 'nuff. Folks that don't listen to the inner voice end up regretting such. All the best!

[@tomruth9487]

As a cabinetmaker for over 30 years, I have some ideas for others building their own cabinets. Cabinets are often made with 1/4" backs just stapled to the back of the cabinets. Holes for utilities are cut on the jobsite with the backs usually pre installed. The nailers at the top of the cabinets hold the cabinets to the walls and provide lateral strength so half inch backs are not necessary. The exception are islands and peninsulas that need more lateral strength. Rubio or any other rub on oil/wax finishes are not really recommended for kitchen and bath cabinets that are subjected to lots of wear and water. The exception might be for softwoods where a harder finish like a conversion varnish might not be the best choice. The cabinets looked nice, you did a good job.

[@kimspence-jones4765]

Using the hole saw backwards is a great tip I’ve never seen before. Thank you!😊

[@jtaylor8606]

That looks great, brilliant work!

[@bluecurlygirl]

It's all coming along so well. Love the cabinets. That hardware is fab.

[@PhilipSkinner-mj5jg]

When you are putting in screws into a hardwood don’t use an impact driver. Always use your Festool drill to put in the screws, it will save breaking screws. Also when waxing your screws simply dip them into the wax. Hope this is helpful. I love your enthusiasm and programmes.

[@ellieboa]

Looking great so far!

[@tatertotlikesyou9214]

as someone who just started woodworking and chose a entertainment stand as my first big project i can confidently say, I HATE INSTALLING SLIDES

[@xBris]

25:31 - Always love it when people use multiple coats of Rubio "Mono"coat. They really should ship that stuff with a big asterisk next to the name.

[@travisrall]

I was about to add a comment about predrilling and waxing screws for hardwood millwork but it looks like you got it all set. Nice project.

[@snowman7234]

I have SO much respect for woodworking skills. No room to do this myself but I certainly appreciate the craft. Absolutely stunning work!

[@diamondperidot]

I am enjoying your skills and the progress of the project.

[@joeherbert3590]

Thanks! Nice delivery.

[@jodywade5617]

On hardwoods, I've drilled tapped with 8/24 modified tap wax screws. Works for me.

[@bobromero2485]

Love the cabinets and the finish. You’re a true artist. Great job 👏🏻

[@jonakason4451]

Awesome! Thank you for sharing your work, it's so inspiring

[@georgiewanders]

Beautiful work 👏👏👏

[@Aprendiz-de-Marceneiro]

Beautiful work

[@mwest3583]

That is absolutely gorgeous. Nice job.

[@cmclaren7]

Really, really nice work. This is going to be a lovely kitchen.

[@elwood212]

Wow Michael that fridge surround is so INSPIRATIONAL I totally agree that OAK is the perfect choice…just wish we had oak here in Australia. Those panel clamps are TDF. As an interior designer and the materials being wood. The dishwasher would need to be as close to the sink as possible for ease of use and reduce water splashing over the wood.

[@danjones9589]

I was a cabinet maker in the 1980's and your method and finishing is very much like what we were doing. For some clients we could not use plywood for the larger panels. Instead we had to make up the panel from solid stock, taking pains to flip parts around to prevent warping. (Federal courts even specified solid stock make ups for library shelving!) I don't recall having any call backs on the make ups. Beautiful work. Would love the same in my own kitchen.

[@bjornolson6527]

I was surprised how much the dried glue scraping tickled my ears 😂🎉😊 ~ 3:30

[@mac8179]

I love this series Michael!!

[@davidjames7323]

It's nice to see i'm not the only who stands on my work bench ;)

[@PaulOfThebesMC]

Beautiful work.

[@nailekara]

Tip of the day ... When using hard wood ... use a thinner "guide" drill bit first. Then scrape some bar soap with the screw and proceed as needed. It´ll be WAY smoother.

[@locomotioncreations]

Great video! Its coming along beautifully my friend.

[@CorwinBos]

I really like the fronts of the drawers

[@billystack]

super nice Michael! great work, they lood fantastic!

[@Suzieq5446]

Very nice work.

[@onehandedmaker]

Great build Michael. One Handed Maker- Australia

[@chrism2966]

Kitchen carcasses has been made like this (or very similar ) for decades. The major difference is that we use adjustable legs to make levelling across a long area easier. Your cabinets are made from plywood and you use veneers and wood trim very well, whereas we mostly use laminated mfc. Our system is easier but yours is a better finish.

[@slugore]

Gorgeous. Love it!

[@clintmsmith]

Tip out trays are a great addition to kitchen and bathroom cabinets! Didn’t know they were a thing until I used one at my girlfriend’s place. Added them to your place and are great for storing sponges in the kitchen and tooth brushes in the bathroom.

[@danielzana818]

The most cinematic kitchen reveal i've seen so far, nice work!

[@keitholiver7828]

In the trash cabinet, if you move the trash container drawer up as high as it will go, and add a gasket to the top of the unit, you can seal off the odors while it is closed. You need the top of the cabinet to be sealed from the drawer above, and angle the drawer slides, so they put pressure on the gasket when closed. Then Voila! no odors escape.

[@the_hunterghost9231]

great design and finish. well done

[@ericathefae]

It looks gorgeous! The only thing that bothers me is the colour difference between the sink doors and the neighbouring cabinet. Would it be possible to correct that after the topcoat has been applied?

[@gblim398]

Outstanding work. 👍

[@PeteLogan101]

Superb..!

[@whydoihavetoify]

That was an absolute pleasure to watch

[@matthysloedolff]

Your kitchen is turning out to definitely be the nicest looking kitchen I have ever seen.

[@MCsCreations]

Really amazing work, Michael! They look FANTASTIC in there! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@FredMcIntyre]

Awesome job Michael! 😃👍🏼👊🏼

[@shanaproctor100]

It was so satisfying when you slid that sink cabinet over the cut outs. Great job!

[@Mrcaffinebean]

That tap fence trick was worth the whole video. Very clever! Really beautiful cabinet work

[@3326jd]

nice work Mike.

[@rossix1851]

That ain’t a louver, it’s a flute. 🥸

[@MiNombreEsElCamaron]

Glad someone said something

[@enensis]

Nice work these look great

[@jeffrice4347]

Beautiful Michael!!

[@willcookmakeup]

These are beautiful

[@jasonl2095]

For my ground-up kitchen build I used the same "sponge tray" and my one regret was not building a "sacrificial face" for the hinges; I used the exact same ones you did, and I really felt the connection ended up weaker than I like. It will be a point of failure in the (relatively) near future. If I had installed a 1/2 thick strip of plywood on the hinges, then attached the door front to the plywood, I think it would have worked out MUCH nicer. But all in all, looks amazing! Thank you for the content!

[@andrewweighill-richards5231]

Hardware manufacturers' screws are best used for testing your trash cans. I always upgrade to Spax screws because, as my father used to say, when a shelf falls down, nobody asks how much the screws cost, only who put them in?

[@dota9280]

Nice customisation

[@kevinf3641]

Looks awesome

[@danlynch1154]

Really wondewrful!

[@carterscustomrods]

I used to use that same tape technique on the router table. The downfall, it would shift the case as the tape stacked up (not to big a deal on a cove bit you use though.) You definitely want to install measuring tape at the ends of your router table that way your fence will be wayyyyyyyyy easier to adjust and setup with everything you are routing.

[@sureshot311]

Beautiful work. Incredible attention to detail on nailing those cut outs. Haha. Thats some skill there.

[@MathijsHeideveld86]

I was a little sceptical about the handles, but once I saw them all inset etc.... yeah that works... it works real well! definately worth the extra effort

[@smileyvkj9384]

nice kitchen you’ve made!

[@KLONDIKEpsychic]

Great work! (If I hit the lottery, I'm hiring you at whatever price you ask! LOL)

[@jatdesign4495]

I so feel milanote is valuable for contractor communication. I use sketchup to get the 3D images to convey what the blank box elevations show. I take more millwork design than I probably should lol

[@jewdd1989]

These are again stunning! Btw I built a 90% solid hickory vanity, still working on the drawers and doors and I went for a simple mid mod look for my 70’s house with my favorite integrated drawer pull holes. I love hickory but every screw snapped, broke into the hickory, also broke and snapped my drill bits so I bought two nice sets and those in the size I needed all broke as well! Going slow helped on occasion but it was a nightmare! Hickory cuts great on table-saws although definitely hard and dense but hates screws and drill bits. I was told to use soap or wax which I will when I get the drawers done but omg it was horrible! It ate more pocket hole screws than any other screw too, the only place I used pocket screws was for the bottom so if water ever leaked and ruined the one piece of ply I added then I was hoping to easily back them out but I just know the screws will snap drilling out

[@MadeByMarylou]

So cute!

[@maxvoigt3946]

would recommend putting a metal lip, or an angle iron on the top inside corner of the bin drawer front. i have the same bin design, and we would tap things and knock that inside corner and damaged it. so we installed a piece of aluminium angle iron to protect it.

[@scottiajohnston8025]

Sweet!

[@pinkytaylor5845]

Beautiful. It kind of reminds me of a 1920s train. Superb job.❤

[@leehaelters6182]

You are talking about the Art Deco period.

[@mattelias721]

Floating toe kicks... this is the way. Great video. I think your louver concept is perfect and adds a lot visually as well as tying the various elements together. Watching you chamfer those thin edges made me nervous, because routing is like the forward pass: three things can happen, and only one of them is good. My final thought to this comment is, whoever makes those plastic shims you use must absolutely love you because you're clearly keeping them in business.

[@victoriamiskolczy6336]

Beautiful work, as always! Yes, I think more kitchens should be built with a sculptural aesthetic…

[@larrydugan1441]

Very nice work

[@louisevad6091]

Exactly how I mounted drawer fronts only I use and oversized holes with a washer head screw in the drawers so I could adjust the drawer front if needed

[@thegag64]

Nice cabinets!!! Not sure if anyone mentioned it but I’ve always used wax on the screws when dealing with white oak and other similar hardwoods. I enjoy all of your vids!!!!!