Rustic Media Console Cabinet

Step 1

Start by attaching with 2″ nails and glue the sides to the bottom shelf. Use one of the shelf pieces. Nail through the sides into the end edge of the shelf. Line up bottom edges.

Step 2

Next, attach with 1 1/4″ nails and glue the drawer guides. The drawer guides need to sit 1″ wide by 3/4″ tall.

Step 3

After the drawer guides are in place (not shown in the rest of the diagrams), add the middle shelf, as shown, 7 1/4″ from the bottom of the cabinet to the bottom of the shelf. Use 2″ nails and glue.

Step 4

Nail the Top of Cabinet in place, as shown above. Use glue and 2″ nails and nail through the top of the cabinet into the top edges of the sides. Now is a good time to check for square. (If you do not know how to check for square, see the HOW-TO section).

Step 5

Step 6

Attach the front and back top trim pieces as shown, keeping top and outside edges flush. Secure to the top of the cabinet piece and the side trim pieces with glue and 2″ nails.

Step 7

Now add the sides of legs, as shown above, keeping the front and back edges flush. Use 1 1/4″ nails and glue.

Step 8

Now add the front and backs of legs, as shown above, keeping outside edge flush with the sides of leges. Nail the front of the legs into the shelves, the sides, and the sides of the legs. This will keep the cabinet together.

Step 9

Cut the footer pieces, as shown above. Use your own creativity here! Once one piece is cut, you can use it as a pattern to cut the other pieces. Nail the footer piece in place, as shown above and below.

Step 10

Attach the Front Middle Shelf Trim Piece, as shown above. Keep the top edge flush with the middle shelf. Also shown in this diagram is the adjustable shelf. You can add this now, or later. I use shelf brackets and add later so I can adjust the shelf to the perfect height.

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.