Installing Floating Shelves, Upper Cabinet and Drawer Fronts in my Off Grid Log Cabin Kitchen

Between meals cooked on the wood stove of venison breakfast sandwiches and bear stew, I build and install floating shelves, spalted birch drawer fronts and and a walnut upper cabinet in the kitchen of my off grid log cabin.
Patreon: / myselfreliance
Shawn James KZbin Channel: / shawnjames1
CLOTHING: teespring.com/stores/my-self-...
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2022 OFF GRID CABIN LIFE: • 2022 Off Grid Cabin Life
OFF GRID LIVING: • Log Cabin & Off Grid L...
COOKING: • Cooking at the Cabin
BUILDING LOG CABIN WITH HAND TOOLS: • Building a Log Cabin A...
BUILDING OFF GRID SAUNA: • Building an Off Grid S...
BUSHCRAFT & SURVIVAL: • Bushcraft & Survival
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Mailing Address for items sent by regular mail:
My Self Reliance/Shawn James
51 King William Street
P.O. Box 30017
Huntsville, ON
P1H 0B5
Address for items sent by courier:
200 Manitoba St., Unit 3, Suite 415
Bracebridge, ON P1L 2E2

[@flute76]

Bonjour shawn, je suis français j'ai 47 ans, et je tenais à vous écrire quelques mots. J'ai découvert vôtre chaîne il y'a quelques semaines car j'ai été immobilisé chez moi pour raison médicale, bref.. Votre chaîne, ce style de vie cette cabane (magnifique), vos outils, ces poêles en fonte, cette nature hostile mais splendide ont réveiller en moi des rêves d'enfant qui était enfouis depuis longtemps et en même temps toujours en surface... Des envie de revenir à l'essentiel, à la nature, isolé du monde moderne et décadent. Un poêle qui chauffe la cabane construite avec le bois qui vient de la forêt. Ce même bois qui cuit cette viande chassé ou pêché, dégustée avec ces légumes du jardin ... Bref un sentiment tellement agréable nous envahit tous et toutes en regardant cette vie que l'on envie, et que personnellement je trouve parfaite et géniale ! Une fois de plus c'est un rêve que je faisais lorsque j'étais tout jeune lorsque je regardais des western ou des films avec des montagnards et leur chien dans leur cabane sous la neige au coin du feu... Merci pour ça shawn ! Merci du fond du coeur de nous montrer que vous avez su accomplir vos rêves qui sont aussi les nôtres finalement !! Merci aussi de partager tous ça !! Vous êtes un guide et un véritable philosophe ! Grand respect, vraiment ! et chapeau bas !. 🫡🙏

[@simontam8587]

I’m a city man , born and raised in the city of Vancouver life . I gotta tell you Shawn it’s a pleasure watching you build your cabin life from start . It looks so peaceful and stress free living the cabin life . From watching your videos I’ve put it in my bucket list to hopefully live the cabin life for at least a month in my life time ! Of course I would rent one , lol ! Just to let you know I’ve watched many cabin life videos and yours is the ones I’ve watched till the end ! Amazing job you’ve done ! Keep up with these great videos ! Love the dog !!!

[@jonboy9912]

Every mans dream - somewhere secluded where you can pull up the drawbridge! Not a politician in sight!!!

[@heidipustelniak652]

Amen! On the no politicians!

[@heidipustelniak652]

Amen to the no politicians!

[@heidipustelniak652]

Amen to the no politicians!

[@RUDOLF2994]

Класс👍

[@ronnie-being-ronnie]

That dream is not just for men, dude, and not just for escaping from politics. And no…it is not actually a dream for every man. I know plenty of men who can’t see a bug without freaking out, who don’t know and don’t want to know how to use tools, who would starve if they had to hunt or forage, who would go crazy from lack of social contact, and would whine about dirt all day every day. People are individuals…don’t know why that is such a difficult idea for some people to accept.

[@the_wave_wizard]

it's really impressive that there are still people who live this way. Congratulations

[@Ctrl_Alt_Sup]

Every day, with your work, your life is more beautiful and sweeter. This oven, like 100 years ago, and next to it a computer to stay connected with the world. What a magical place.

[@dannyburrell4014]

Dick Proenneke would be proud of your resourcefulness and craftsmanship on your drawer handles and floating shelves. Like your Griswold Dutch oven I have one too. I have made some fine biscuits in mine.

[@susanmahr6068]

Hard to believe this man had cut every one of those logs by hand. What an accomplishment.

[@CCRider5312]

Actually he built 3 cabins by hand & he’s shown a picture of the first one he built. But it was the first time of him building a cabin by hand he didn’t vlog it. Shawn said it was a trial run and he was really a young man & really didn’t know what he was doing. Also If you hadn’t seen it He blogged the whole build of the 2nd cabin on this channel. Which turned out amazing and it was built just like folks in the 1600-1700’s would’ve built one, by hand with all hand tools except on occasion he did use a chainsaw on just a handful of things like milling the interior lumber with chainsaw. But for the most part 95% of the 2nd Cabin was done by hand. Also the roofing materials was built with wood and he used Japanese method of burning 🔥 or charring the wood to waterproof the wood roofing without any modern roofing materials. Same way they done it hundreds of years ago. But This 3rd Cabin is quite a bit larger, with underground cellar/basement under the house itself . The 2nd Cabin Property he built an underground food storage cellar but it was nearby but not under the house. On this 3rd present cabin he 🔥 burned/charred all the underground foundation timbers to waterproof them. He even dug out the cellar/basement with a shovel by hand, back breaking labor. Also on this 3rd cabin he used the modern metal roofing instead of the charred wood roof. Which I think is much better and less maintenance decision. Also Shawn’s fixing to build on to this cabin this spring by adding an outdoor kitchen like he had at cabin #2. Because cooking over fire 🔥 wood heater/cookstove is just way too hot in the house in the warmer months. This cabin is by far much bigger & nicer than the 2nd one. He hasn’t said or if he has said I’ve missed it, about building a outdoor cabin hot sweat 😓 sauna. If you’re not familiar with his other channel.... Then Watch the Shawn James channel where he talks more and tells of his plans on his building on this channel. This channel is mainly building and less talk.

[@Chr.U.Cas2216]

??? He is using a chainsaw and a band sawmill, both with combustion engines. Additionally a four wheeler and a snowmobile. But of course the rest is all done by hand.

[@darcyscott2406]

It seems that all that hard hand work has effected his body in a negative way. Which could have a long term effect, but of course he’s in a perfect environment for good healthy living. Shawn nobody would blame you if you used power tools from now on!

[@JB10651]

A new video from Shawn and it’s not Friday? Guess our week is starting off great!

[@sharonclaassen8382]

Yes!! 😅

[@deblarsen8528]

Yup! Makes me feel special!

[@justinhunter3330]

Do you think there will be an episode this Friday ?

[@husky500cr]

The drawers came out really nice. You would have paid a fortune for everything you have built by hand.

[@user-tb5ns7hc5i]

Very nice. All that’s missing are few pieces of framed nature artwork on the walls. Home sweet home.

[@lizburgess4398]

I just love watching. Especially since our golden literally howls with joy every time he sees Cali. It's so sweet! He even offered his favorite stuffed toy to the tv.

[@tabi2909]

That’s adorable 😮😍🤭

[@lewiskemp5893]

She reminds me of my old goldens. Especially my Daytona

[@CCRider5312]

That Cali🐕 oh Goodness gracious she tickles me 😂. Even Regardless Of her Relentless Pursuit to hunt and please her Master............ She Still Sometimes displays a awesome sense of humor as if she knows she’s doing it for an audience of Millions Of viewers 👏😂🤣

[@williamtucker4749]

All I can say it is a honor to see a man that's works hard as you finish a project this size. I'm 58 and probably can't do half of what you do. It is a honor seeing someone like your self.

[@TheRider1encore]

Even half is still fairly impressive, though.

[@jameswulzen590]

you can do what ever you put your mind to. I see this guy handle logs like they are Lincoln log kits, doing it by himself 99% of the time. Amazing man using tools from the past to do 99% of his builds, love it.

[@rockofagesusa7942]

Yeah the ole boy is impressive indeed, if he had help he would probably fall to pieces being so used to working by himself

[@Mustang-tt3zt]

I agree 💯👍

[@marieperruchet1090]

J’adore la cuisine

[@mxbreed20]

Your attention to detail makes it all work.

[@francoiselenoir5082]

Bonjour, je suis belge et je vous suis et admire votre travail et votre manière de vivre merci pour tous ces merveilleux moments

[@madamecampsalot6384]

I love the rich, golden tone of the inside of the cabin!

[@PaulChandler1951]

Shawn. I have watched your videos since the beginning of the first cabin. While I aspire to this lifestyle, at 71, I have to acknowledge I missed the mark. Even if I had tried this 20, or even 30, years ago I acknowledge that I did not have your life experiences of building, hunting, cooking etc that would have made it an uphill battle even then. Instead, I live vicariously through your videos. Thank you and much respect 👍

[@MADZIA0606]

*Hello everyone!* 👋😊

[@Karen-ew9zn]

Such a cozy little corner! Makes me want to snuggle in with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book!

[@robinraymond-5923]

A man of many talents

[@tractorcorleone]

Your videos are more interesting than Hollywood adventure movies and it's a true story, just cool 👍👍

[@earthmama8384]

Hi Shawn! Thank you for another interesting and informative video! There are many things I like about your channel, from ♥️Callie♥️ and nature surrounding your cabin, to watching you make everything from scratch! Much to my chagrin, you’re a far better cook than me!!! There are few people who match your focus, tenacity, and work ethic. These traits are admirable. Your cabin is beautiful inside and out! The bookshelves made a huge difference, giving off such a lovely ambiance when lighted in the evenings as you read your books. The kitchen is coming along nicely, too. The open cabinet and shelves are great additions. Love your carved wood drawer handles! I can only imagine the vibe of your cabin, being surrounded by glorious trees, now logs. You must feel wholly grounded there. I’ve learned something new from each and every one of your videos, Shawn, and believe you are an inspiration to your viewers. Never do I miss watching a new video to see what you’ve been up to! Thank you for being a creative force for good. Take care. Stay safe. Peace and blessings to you and your family.

[@armandzottola1626]

So many comments…a tribute better than the viewer-count. Each one speaks for me, too.

[@jonboy9912]

Well those floating shelves are no going anywhere!!!1 Jeez!!!!

[@davidgodal98]

New video on a Monday! Am i dreaming?! 😍

[@bonniehunter9088]

the cabin is really looking lovely great workmanship

[@marignanmarignan9740]

???

[@user-dg3iu8fd3h]

Как в сказке красота тишина

[@ellbow7287]

@@JM_Malkoti ??? Your comment is nonsensical.

[@JM_Malkoti]

@@ellbow7287 sorry sir, I delete that.

[@susanalbone5101]

What a difference a few shelves and draw fronts make. It must be so rewarding looking at what you have achieved, I know I would be, beautiful. Take care, be safe. Dorset, UK ❤

[@daveyjoweaver6282]

Seeing you making you stew on your wood stove aside from feeling hunger, I remember seeing that stove for the first time and in the snow. The shelves look super and the cozy feeling I get just watching reminds me of that same feeling when I watch Alone In The Wilderness, which I watch now and again. So watching Shawn and Cali and the James Family, I have that same feeling. That same connection to the land and life and All Creation! It is that important connection that so many have become disconnected from. However, My Self Reliance reminds all who watch that in spite of everything, we are all children of Mother Earth. Being close to her is knowing one’s own Heart. Kind Thanks, Many Blessings with Love, Light, Peace and Joy of Being! DaveyJO in Pennsylvania

[@caseygroves3046]

This episode feels like its really a home.

[@hannahm3665]

I could watch you build all day. Perfect location in the middle of the woods, cabin built by hand and a little river with the perfect friend ❤

[@yvindascanius6061]

Yes, Shawn is creative, skilled, tenacious, and a great inspiration to people. And Cali is his faithful sidekick!

[@dquinlan2803]

I'm not sure which I enjoy more...watching you build or watching you cook and eat all those delicious meals

[@doug6189]

Poor Cali, she's getting older to. I hope she has a few great years left to enjoy all of the hard work you all have done.

[@sandyjuntunen4088]

She's older but she definitely should have more healthy years.

[@sharonfillman8302]

Cali is only 6. My golden was 14 when he passed. Cali has many healthy years left.

[@pinky2245]

@@sharonfillman8302 Just what I was going to say. When I first started watching Shawn's channels, Cali was just a small puppy. She just had her sixth birthday in December.

[@valvance2058]

you’re an amazing man, such a hard working person.

[@chrismiertschin6148]

My husband I have been watching your videos for years ( I will admit I watch them more then once) Our walked by as you through Cali's toy. She said "It's the Cali show starring Shawn James." I had to chuckle. It's great watching both of you. As always, thanks a million for sharing.

[@linedanzer4302]

Shawn I've never seen a carrot that large in my life! And it looks good too! You are an inspiration. I would love to get some land and live *that life* without the city noise, crime, congestion, etc. In the meantime, I'll continue to live *that life* through you and Cali.

[@richardthornhill4630]

Good to sit back and enjoy the cabin after the long summer and great effort.

[@debralwoods]

Love the drawer faces and shelves!

[@raymondhall8629]

This man is very talented and loves his work and his best friend his dog ❤ Just love these videos

[@raymondhall8629]

I will, stay safe both of you 👍

[@18rcurry]

Your home is absolutely beautiful, warm and comforting atmosphere. ❤

[@kerryboothe4811]

Beautiful workmanship

[@zdenekgleich1158]

I've said before that you inspired us to start a KZbin account. we don't have as many followers and probably won't have as many as you. We started our account to inspire people to show the beauty of Australia. I know at least 5 people whose lives we have changed. And that warms our hearts. thank you for inspiring us

[@sandyjuntunen4088]

I've never seen anybody in my life who loves peppers, onions & garlic as much as Shawn. Every meal, even breakfast. I'd be sick if I tried half of it!

[@natureocean9466]

Peppers, onions and garlic have amazing health and healing benefits many countries outside of the USA know this.

[@melsinTN]

Peppers, onions and garlic are what makes eating enjoyable! ;)

[@karenwalker4764]

Watch Pam Davidson cook her husband eats more peppers and onions than Shawn

[@izzyplusplusplus1004]

Peppers and onions should be in every garden!

[@rzrabbit]

Not to forget his Hot Sauce. 🔥 😆

[@deblarsen8528]

Shawn, You are amazing! Anyone would LOVE to have a cabin home like yours! When you cook up a meal... I can smell how good it is! Thank you for letting us tag along and watch how you add special touches to your off grid cabin! Cali is always a joy to watch. What a beautiful pup! Until your next video ~~~ Stay safe, healthy, warm and happy! 🍁 🇨🇦

[@joeheid2776]

It's only Monday and I approve this video. 😜😂

[@mellane4608]

Lookin' like home again. How about a 360 pan around so I can get a sense of the whole thing?

[@mikedeclerck1421]

Watching you and Cali together is rich with emotions. What a marvelous companion she is. I have to go hug my cocker spaniels after watching one of your episodes. Cabin looks so inviting. What an accomplishment for you, and as I have said so many times, thank you for sharing your life with us. Give Cali a BIG SMOOCH from Mike & Ronnie. GOD BLESS

[@mariapottery]

The cabinet you just finished made of beautiful wood!

[@gaurijadhav7940]

i did not see your bear hallmark engraved on your new door. Cali can have a companion may be what do you think. My appreciation and huge respect for the amount of work you have finished and it is not easy at all. your stamina and hunger to complete the project is exceptional and inspirational.

[@arthenry498]

I can not get enough of your interaction with Cali. You two are a superb team. Of course you are amazing with your skills and craftsmanship and I admire those fully. But I really enjoy the connection with Cali. It is beautiful.. And everything you cook looks superb!! Even things I KNOW I don't like look delicious!! Thank you Shawn for allowing me IN your lives like this. I am really enjoying every moment of it. And I am learning with every episode. I love your smart, safe approach to every thing. Keep it safe. Thanks again.

[@melsinTN]

Wow, that stain really brought out the wood's beauty! Nice :)

[@barbaralavoie1045]

You certainly are a very good builder and carpenter. 👍👍

[@markbrooks5278]

Boy Shawn, its lookin more and more homey around there!! Ive been in the cabinet making bussiness for over thirty years , and im impressd with your rustic cabinet making, looks very good..thankyou so much for all your videos!!😉👍👌

[@guppy2129]

Impeccable craftsmanship! Bravo!

[@luanncarpenter4906]

Greetings from America! Love watching you and Cali.

[@gleenatrillo5390]

You’re amazing. I miss my own Dad watching you. Love to see Cali always happy wagging his tail. Nice companion for a dog.

[@user-ss8cf3uu9o]

Your videos bring me so much peace I cannot explain how this helps me.

[@peperetuque7744]

you are talented to make furniture as you do great job thank you for the video 👍👍👍

[@martyevans8162]

Wonderful seeing you enjoy the fruits of your labor... I remember a winter past when that wood burning stove sat in the middle of your build with only 2-3 levels of wall logs in place & no roof ... & snow piled everywhere.... and now ..... that same space .... so cozy, attractive & inviting.... enjoy every moment Shawn ...

[@craigrobbins8981]

You've done great job again on this cabin Shawn, I bet the wife is looking foreword to living there.

[@GondoKellen]

It’s impossible to get tired watching your videos! You’re so handy, and talented! God bless!

[@DawnieRotten]

MUCH nicer with the faces on the kitchen drawers!! Cabinets came out beautiful! Great job on everything!!

[@scottcusick6274]

Good morning from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It’s Tuesday March 21, 2023 today. I’ve been watching your KZbin videos for a while now. It’s really nice to watch you build your cabin. Your an amazing craftsman. 🇺🇸

[@philandbevanthony264]

Been watching your channels for many years...and never get tired...enjoy the creativity and cooking...😀

[@jennihudson9484]

Everytime l come back to your channel your cabin looks more like a home. You have done a wonderful job creating a place that will serve your family for many generations, to think of what you have achieved in what amounts to a very short amount of time on your own is mind blowing, you just show what can be done when you set your mind to it. Thank you for letting us tag along on this journey with you, it has been one of the best journeys l have in many years and l haven't had to step out of my front door.

[@TraecyBirss-po2zo]

First time seeing you. I am in awe of what you have, and will accomplish. I have to say though, that the best thing I’ve seen you make, is the life you have given your dog.

[@167curly]

It's great to see you setting up the interior of your lodge during the snowy weather, so when it thaws you have time for gardening and other outdoor work.

[@jac5824]

Starting to look like home. Beautiful, warm and cozy. Perfection!

[@FuccoTheClown]

Utilizing the new kitchen must feel glorious :)

[@marianfrances4959]

3,000 views in the first 12 minutes! Good morning Shawn and Cali! HAPPY SPRING to all 👍🇨🇦😎🐾🌱🐻🐝🌿🌞

[@ptitesurveraine2624]

hello shawn I love what you are building. you immersed me in my dream. thank you from southern France

[@TinyGalore]

Wauw! The cabinet turned out beautiful. Very cozy ending. I'm so proud of you.

[@dollface8019]

LOVE YOUR CABIN AND VIDEOS! ALWAYS A CALMING WATCH IN A CRAZY WORLD AROUND US, THANK YOU!

[@lisahause8705]

Your pup dog is so happy…she makes you feel so happy too! Man’s best friend! Awe…great relationship, between man & beast! 👋👏🏻👍🏻

[@bryan17293]

Daddy made you some stew Cali 🍲 Love the drawers faces, and floating shelves. Place is very homey now. That ladies touch should make it lovely. 👒

[@ajadair500]

Those cabinets turned out beautiful, and the best part is they were made by your own hands. 👍

[@ciaobella8963]

Your cabin is so beautiful. What an amazing accomplishment!

[@JDMz]

And it's only going to get better with the sauna, outdoor kitchen.

[@van.buildanewlife]

🏡 Wooo 😊 I 👍 like 👍 your 💕 house 🏡 very 🏡 nice 😊👍👍 Wich 😊 you 👍 always 👍 lucky 💕 happy 🏡 and 😊 healthy 💕

[@kathleenturley1561]

When it all hits the fan....and it will.........you and your family will be a-okay. What a beautiful atmosphere you have created, complete with a means to sustain yourself and your family through garden growing and knowing how to hunt. Well done! I can only imagine the peace it brings to you. Your have worked incredibility hard and it has paid off. Can't wait to watch the kitchen build

[@maureensteele3325]

Love the drawer fronts with their wood handles...so pretty! Always enjoyable to watch wood grains come to life; beautiful and satisfying.

[@TheJPILES]

Shawn!! My friendship with you is likely unknown to you personally, but I cannot thank you enough. You’re an inspiration to us all, and truly the hardest working person I’ve come across. The cabin is amazing, thank you for sharing your journey!

[@lindahansen9395]

You just keep adding beautiful and useful additions to your wonderful cabin. Thanks for sharing so we can all watch the progress.

[@patriciabeyer8029]

Nice work. Cali likes to stop and rest once in a while. Just like us old folk. 😊😊

[@trudyschaffer8016]

I guess all questions were answered regarding if the cabin is level.. when Shawn balanced those shelves on top of the wood stove. What a master craftsmen. Could Cali get any more entertaining?!😆🐾🌲

[@rebeccamercer4160]

Good morning Shawn Always love your videos! Can you give the recipe to your stew? God bless you and your family!

[@joehaefeker1755]

Your cabin is looking so beautiful Shawn James❤

[@patriciaquintanasalazar3204]

Eres un hombre completo, Inteligente, Maestro Carpintero, Cocinero, Marido, Padre, Profesional, etc.... Bendiciones 😘 desde Chile.

[@Tora_74]

Love how the cabin is getting to look like You have imagined. Love the kitchen!

[@haroldfoust]

Thanks another great video Enjoy the cabin build🐕👍

[@saritasowell7540]

Wow! Those cabinets are very impressive woodcraft work

[@BonniesPlace]

The kitchen has really come together. The changes you’ve shown over the last month or two have really transformed the space into such a cozy home. What a joy to seeing all your tremendous efforts come to fruition as they have. Thank you for continuing to share your journey!

[@miriamvegagonzalez3058]

I 😍 look nice.

[@JDMz]

I'm looking forward to the outdoor kitchen. His last one was phenomenal.

[@debrarupp2027]

Your cabin is just beautiful. Love the cabinets... the accomplishments, workmanship such amazing skills. Thank you for sharing I'm looking forward to seeing more. 😊

[@glendajune9140]

Progressing nicely Shawn. Cabin’s looking beautiful.💯❤️👏🏾💜🙋🏽‍♀️✝️🙏🏾🇺🇸

[@ST-tf4sq]

This man is a definition of bad-ass.

[@DavidWvu]

I will never get tired of watching these videos. I've learned a lot from watching. Thank you Shawn James for sharing yours and Cali's days with us. Have a great day!

[@myvideos6195]

Hi, i like the meals you make, they add so much to making your videos real, and close to home to us who is watching, i know cal eat a lot of food, because she look very healthy, I would like to see her eating when you are eating, since she is a part of the family, and when you do things together, it takes the video to another level. The videos is already awesome! bye

[@NomadRyder-it1dh]

Those drawer pulls were simple and elegant. Nothing else would have worked as well.

[@jeanettec6212]

I love all the cabinetry. The light fixtures and well, everything!!

[@nancyrea3863]

Does your family share your love for the land and the home? Sure hope so. You and Cali have a great relationship. It cracks me up watching her carry her throw toy. The drawer fronts turned out beautiful, and the bear stew looked good. May God keep you both safe.

[@josephmiele3745]

The cabin is really shaping up 👍👍

[@donsayers4418]

Jeez Shawn I hate to admit how much I enjoy your relaxed informative videos. I've started to look for new ones because of all the crazy ridiculous vids that are coming out. Ive followed you and Callie for years but I like the relaxing low tempo life style you are living. Look forward to the spring and summer vids to come. Not the mosquitoes. Thanks for the peace and quiet.