Miniature DIY - Midcentury Modern Cabinet

Today's video is all about this gorgeous midcentury modern cabinet. It's built in 1/12 scale and made of wood. I'm using a laser to cut the pieces for this project but you can also cut the thin sheets of wood by hand. I've included a template in this video for your reference. Enjoy!
Shop the Creality Falcon 2: shorturl.at/fl056
✏ Products used in this video:
1/8” craft plywood: amzn.to/4149jDn
1/16” craft plywood: amzn.to/3Rqj2R9
Wood stain: amzn.to/414B7Yd
Varnish: amzn.to/46Kfb5G
✏ Equipment I use:
Canon Powershot: amzn.to/31ykgh1
Tripod: amzn.to/2WFADES
Daylight Flood Bulbs: amzn.to/2MNUYIL
Light Reflectors: amzn.to/2KYlfBF
Light Stands: amzn.to/2XTvg6o
Mic: amzn.to/2WGw0iS
Editing Software: Final Cut Pro
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This video is not sponsored. This machine was sent to me by Creality for a review of the product. Some of the Amazon links above are affiliate links.

[@marymoore4412]

Cath I hate that there are so many naysayers who feel that they can sit in the comfort of their home and are keyboard warriors who spit out hurtful comments! Like you I have a 3D printer and a Laser cutter - but there are many of your projects that I take your dimensions and cut the project out with wood using my X-ACTO. If the folks following you are truly artists and don't have these machines they should be able to do the same. Keep doing what you are doing Cath and ignore the naysayers! There is 100% a place for 3D printing and laser cutting in the miniature world and I am so thankful that you are sharing those skills with us! And don't let anyone tell you that using these machines is not creative for those that say that have NEVER designed in these tools so they don't know what they are talking about!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

You are so kind and thank you so much for your support! You're so right and all my handmade tutorials teach the basics of using wood. I truly do appreciate your kind words and love that you're incorporating new tech in your work as well! I think many viewers enjoy the "vibes" of handmade and while I can appreciate that, it's not my focus with these instructional videos. That being said, I will try to show how to cut these by hand in my next laser video so there's so confusion.

[@reimeiohcreatorforhire]

Popsicle sticks, 3D cutters and lasers, I don’t mind either way. Just nice to have a balance of the two for each one’s preferences.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

I love your perspective and share it 100%. As long as the creative process is enjoyable for you, it doesn’t matter which one you choose

[@monicadacosta5545]

My grandmother actually had a cabinet that looked exactly like this one. Same curbs on the legs and drawers in the middle. My mouth dropped when I saw this. I showed my mom, and she said the exact same thing, that this was the cabinet her mom had. We almost cried cause grandma is gone now. But the memory of this and her place brings back so many great memories. Thank you for sharing. It came out beautiful.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you for sharing that beautiful story and I’m so honored this brought back such fond memories 💕

[@jessicasledge1743]

I have been a subscriber for many years now, and i just want to say I greatly appreciate the incorporation of new technologies into crafting. I have worked on things the "traditional" way forever, and already in my 30s I have frequent hand problems tike tendinitis and carpal tunnel, which makes it painful and annoying to cut things by hand. I recently joined my local makerspace and i use their laser to cut all my cardboard and wood now.​ And I am learning how to use their 3D printer. I enjoy the design challenges that come with the new tech as well! It's not a crime to do things that are convenient or challenge you in a different way. People could still sew by hand, but we mostly use sewing machines now. And there's nothing wrong with that. Please continue to make these videos, they're extremely helpful and insightful! You still have an extensive backlog of traditional crafts for newcomers, and there are plenty of other content creators who still do that too. I have enjoyed watching your evolution through the years and look forward to what make next! I appreciate you! @TheSquaretoSpare

[@Pretty_little_treasures]

I love your old videos without any tech support, that was really the true craftsmanship. ❤ Missing old good days of your videos. These 3d printed things are nice but for me your talent with your hands is more mesmerizing.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you! Both are so fun and challenge me in different ways. My favorite is combining both techniques

[@kathoakes929]

Hi kath this unit i exactly like the one my parents had when I was a teenager. I'm now 70. Thankyou it brought back some lovely memories.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

You are so welcome! I love the style of that era!

[@chrissysmith3157]

Controversial but I LOVE your 3D printing/laser cutting content as opposed to the traditional popsicle stick content. Sorry, I just love CAD! Keep it up!!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you so much!! I don’t get this comment often so I truly appreciate it. Working with popsicle sticks was fun for me many years ago but it just doesn’t interest me anymore. So as much as I wish my old viewers enjoyed this content too, I can’t force it. I have to continue creating in the way that brings me joy

[@mizzuzie3338]

The way you break the job down makes it so much more manageable. The finished piece looks almost exactly like the picture and is very beautiful.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you so much!! That’s such a big compliment and I’m happy I could do it justice 🥰

[@carolputnam4140]

love the sideboard but please can we have more hand made items, not all of us have 3d printers.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

I’ll show you how to use the template I included here to create the handmade version. It’s quite simple and I’ll be sure to include a visual of how it’s done in my next project

[@firefly19681]

This is so very cool. I would just sit that on a desk or dresser just because. Very well done

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you! Now you’ve inspired me to create a mid century little desk too 💡

[@jennapitts8373]

👋👋👋👋👋. Another beautiful creation!

[@MrsDubious]

Beautiful piece! Beyond my skill and capabilities with technology but I may try it hand cutting the pieces.

[@fredericapanon207]

@MrsDubious, go for it! The laser cutter is a time-saver, but by no means the only to go about making this credenza. If you want to play with the graphics, you can go as far as making the vector files, print them out and cut out the individual pieces to glue onto your material of choice as templates to cut around. And vector files can be scaled up and down...

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Couldn’t have said it better myself!! Thanks so much for responding 💕

[@KatieB968]

I've been watching your videos for years and just recently came back to watching KZbin. I'm not mad to see you incorporate newer tools and tech, but I love to see you still showing how we can make these without the fancy tools. Can't wait for the next video!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Aww thank you! I appreciate that! I'll be sure to incorporate some steps on how to create a handmade version in my next video that incorporates a laser :) I think you're right that it'll be helpful

[@SabakuNoShi]

OMG, totally amazing!

[@paperdoll1982]

Wonderful! I love mid-century modern! I’m planning my next dollshouse in this style so this tutorial will be very useful!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Glad it was helpful! Have fun with your next dollhouse! I’m sure it’s going to look incredible

[@annajavier5712]

I loved that

[@phreeurself]

Beautiful!!

[@lynnelewis9605]

Lovely piece of furniture. X

[@giselefiorote9579]

That's so beautiful

[@iranzov]

Thank you so much !! My wife and I enjoy your channel and watch it on TV and have very nice time. We really appreciate that you show the full process including the Tinkercad design. We watch the advertising as a way to thank you for the efforts you take on producing this awesome tutorials. My 3d designs and printings are getting better. The combination of technology and handmade is so great!!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Wow, thank you! You two are so kind and I’m so happy to hear you enjoy these videos. I’m so happy they’re helpful!

[@invisiblekid2051]

this is so cool looks like the real thing

[@melniee2551]

awesome!

[@carissamessina1908]

I love watching your videos! I wish I could do this!

[@sabriel7326]

So nice and clever. Love the Design. Thanks for sharing!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

You are so welcome!

[@toadflakes7992]

I love this so much!!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you so much!

[@user-qk5vw6wl3t]

Love latex gloves 🧤

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

I did when staining :)

[@brianahawkins8124]

Awesome crafting.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you so much 😊

[@SandraWatson-bf6ch]

Love this video. I want to make it. My aunt had this cabinet. My son has it now.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Your son is so lucky! I’d love a life sized version of this

[@estherhayes790]

This was so fascinating 🤓 thanks for sharing the process!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

You are so welcome!

[@jennglow4647]

Very cool 😀

[@Ms.D-loves-minis3]

Absolutely amazing, once again 🤩🤩🤩 Even without having a laser cutter, it looks like I could actually complete this project 🤔🤔🤔Thank you for sharing this wonderful piece with us😊😊😊

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

You absolutely can! I like to print out the template, glue it to the wood I’m cutting and then slowly cut it out with a sharp knife or a mini table saw. All the straight lines make it super easy

[@Lulis56]

Beautiful! I e made two MCM credenzas so far. This will be next!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Wonderful!

[@cocoscrafts6410]

Very nice design. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@MagicalMiniature]

So cute🌹

[@shabanatajrout487]

You are supremely talented ❤❤❤

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you so much!

[@cat3crazy]

Cute. I took a screen shot of the template. I know that my skill level isn't good enough to make this but, maybe one day.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

It’s never too late to start! You can print the template out on paper and trace it on a piece of wood to cut out :) it’s a fabulous way to build this piece and improve your skills

[@healinspaces4u]

I love watching your videos. I keep thinking that you desrve all of the tools. You work so hard and add such intricate details. Also, it makes me want to purchase the equipment you use. Having templates and laser cutting 😮. It takes me so long to hand cut each piece. 😏

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you so much!! I loved making everything by hand when I was younger and had all the time in the world. It’s definitely harder now with how busy life has gotten so my tools are an essential to get any projects done. I love how they allow me to continue creating and I don’t have to feel guilty about how much time this hobby takes. Win win ❤️

[@patriciasmith7074]

That is fabulous, I love miniatures I have always wanted to do it too. Boy that is some tool. I bought a small craft jigsaw and never used it.

[@fredericapanon207]

@patriciasmith7074, the laser cutter is a time saver, but whatever Kath did can also be done with hand tools (jigsaw, pin vise & small drill bits, small files, etc.) or small power tools e.g. a drill for the concave curves on those legs.

[@xLexiMarie]

I love your videos but I miss when you made everything from popsicle sticks and other similar things. It was more fun to watch than 3d printing or laser cutting :(

[@valeriek8537]

Same. I don’t really watch her videos anymore unless it’s a pre-made kit.

[@xLexiMarie]

@@valeriek8537 oh yes I loved those pre made kits as well. I’ve always wanted to buy one for myself but I know I’ll get addicted and end up with so many lol

[@fredericapanon207]

Even without the laser cutter, you can create those vector files, print them and lightly glue them to the thin wood as guidelines for cutting you pieces out. It makes it a lot easier to have matching parts even with hand tools.

[@JBC352]

I agree; if she were to launch a patreon for those fully diy vids, I’d love to support that. I do still love these vids too though even if they aren’t exactly what I wanted to see. 😊

[@ComingWithTheClouds]

Me too. I've just unsubscribed

[@GwendyddStclair]

Like the radio,record player 8 track cabinet these used.

[@noducksaloud7554]

I have this exact bar, except my drawers and top have Formica and brass handles.

[@mon6745]

This build is on point, just luke your manicure! I wonder if you can collab with a wood personnthat could give you off cuts of different types of wood to use? Or veneer?

[@airamsipuola5045]

This video is timely for me, because I just saw another KZbinr work with a laser cutter, which I'd never really considered before. MCM furniture is my favorite, and you did such an amazing job recreating that piece . I was just wondering about a couple of things: would it not be easier to stain and varnish the sliding doors, drawer fronts and inner shelves before assembling? I'd be too scared that, were I to brush over every surface, some stain would seep into the crevices and cause the drawers and sliding doors to stick. Also, how do you ensure you get precise measurements when tracing the different parts of the image? Thanks for the video -- you're SO good at this!

[@fredericapanon207]

@airamsipuola5045, I am reasonably certain that Kath was using a background grid with snap-to-grid enabled. She probably had to do a bit of trial and error to figure out the grid spacing from her reference picture. Remember that once she exports the JPEG to SVG, she can scale the parts to whatever size she wants with proportions remaining the same.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you so much! It didn’t have to be super precise and I did have to do a bit of trial and error to get to the final result. I think staining and varnishing before assembly is ideal. The only reason I didn’t is because I didn’t plan on staining it until after I assembled it 😅

[@garykuovideos]

“I’d love to have this for my apartment, but I have no idea where I can get a laser.” - Tiny Don Draper

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

I know the feeling. I live in an nyc apartment and most of my tools get put away when not in use. Luckily, we have an outdoor space where I can run the laser but it’s put away after every use 😪

[@AL-wu9ku]

I love this! Where can I find your template to cut the pieces without a laser cutter? I see all the links to the wood and varnish and stuff, but no template. Thanks! Love all your miniatures.

[@kathleenquinn8538]

😊😊😊😊😊

[@GwendyddStclair]

Can you do a version of this with record player panel at top.

[@craftsydaddy]

First comment and like!

[@yanatayna]

Великолепное и точное исполнение!❤ Я не совсем поняла, где можно взять готовый файл из фотошопа и другой программы, чтобы я тоже смогла заказать у мастера резки по вашему шаблону?

[@yflores6085]

Hi Cath!!! Love all of your videos...but, I'm not tech savvy at all!!! Do you mind giving me measurements for at least the rectangle pieces? I don't even know how to print the screenshot to make sure the measurements are right and I guess if I make the rectangles the right size, everything else comes together 🫣😮‍💨 I'm old!! I need technology clases 😂

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Thank you!! Send me an email and I’ll share the image that you can print on paper. Then you can glue the paper on wood and cut it out :)

[@yflores6085]

Just did!!! Thank you!

[@mivieirasilva22]

Amei. Tem como disponibilizar o molde? Por favor

[@toadflakes7992]

Will you be putting the cut file for this in your Etsy store? If so, take my money!

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Haha I can send you the SVG file for free (note that it won't have the engraving marks (only cut marks). Send me an email if you're interested :)

[@alexkostuchenko3697]

Is there a website for it instead of saving it on a drive

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Im not sure where I can save it that’s accessible publicly. If you know, please do share :)

[@pascalechemla692]

Hi Kat! Where is the template please?😊

[@kimberleygrace247]

Hi Cath! Is it possible to share this as an SVG file?

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Hi there! I would love to but not sure where I can save it that’s publicly accessible. If you just want it personally, shoot me an email and I’ll send it over :)

[@kimberleygrace247]

@@TheSquaretoSpare That would be brilliant! Sent you a message.

[@marinamarioni6384]

it is nice, but I am an absolute stickler for tiny details, such as; 1/8" wood would be 1.5" thick in large scale, too big for a cabinet in real scale. Also, the wood grain not running the length on the top tweaks my attention to those details. I strive to make my miniatures as realistic as possible. All that being said, it's a nice design

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

That’s wonderful and I’m sure your miniatures are gorgeous! The 1/16” wood I show in the video is also a great option. There’s always a delicate balance between durability in minis and scale and I aim for the best balance within my skill level 💕

[@mon6745]

'WhY aRe YoU uSiNg A tHrEe D pRiNtEr?' I know this comment is coming no matter what Kat posts 🤭

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

You’ve hit the mark lol. It’s okay though. I know this isn’t for everyone and that’s okay :) I do the best I can and share for those who do find it useful 💕

[@Lichtspuren]

Nice to do when you have the equipment…

[@airamsipuola5045]

Do you mean a laser cutter? Because I would imagine it's also nice to do using just hand tools.

[@Lichtspuren]

I really prefer the handmade crafts. 🤓

[@kleinehexe3186]

It's not a real *HANDMADE* . At most, you thought it up and glued it yourself. But that's not the epitome of *HANDMADE* .

[@airamsipuola5045]

You keep using the word "handmade," though Cath never once uttered it. She provided templates for those who wish to construct it without using a laser cutter. Either way, she created this little miniature piece of furniture.

[@sophievanderbilt1325]

I bet you’re a lot of fun at parties 😑🎉

[@fredericapanon207]

@kleinehexe3186, the laser cutter is definitely a time-saving convenience. But you can certainly download her pattern and hand-cut the pieces. With a jigsaw, small files, and patience, one can certainly create a similar miniature piece

[@fredericapanon207]

The important thing that Kath showed us is that she used a photograph as inspiration, and her process for doing so. Since Kath only showed us a front picture, she used used her own judgment as to what depth would make sense for this credenza. We can use the same basic process to create our own parts from a magazine picture even without a computer. It might just require a bit more math to choose dimensions that make sense in 1:6 or 1:12 scale. Do check out Ara's (Bentley House Minis) video about scales for miniatures. I love her idea of the mini-Ara silhouettes at different scales so that she can keep furniture to the correct proportions. Edit: spelling errors. Sooo many errors.

[@NikkiVelazquez]

Gatekeepers are annoying AF