How to construct a pantry cabinet

To assemble the pantry cabinet you will only need the following tools:

  • A small rubber mallet

  • A Phillips No 2 screwdriver or similar sized drill screwdriver attachment. If using a drill, have it set to its lowest speed, especially when tightening lock nuts.

Begin by removing all the contents of the pre-packed pantry cabinet box. Keep all the cam screws, dowels and other screws separate from the wood framework, bottom, middle and top shelves as well as the toe kick panel. It is far easier to find each relevant piece needed in the construction process if everything is kept neat beforehand.

Begin by taking all the cams and dowels and place them in their appropriate spaces in every part of the wooden framework of the pantry cabinet. Each one has a purpose drilled hole in which they will fit perfectly, and it is easy to see exactly where they need to go. With the locking mechanisms, ensure that they are set correctly. These vital pieces provide rigidity for the whole structure once they are locked. For them to lock in the correct fashion, they must be placed with arrows pointing in the direction from which the cams will be installed from, allowing everything to lock into place once turned.

Now begin construction of the framework to your pantry cabinet. To do this, place one side of the cabinet on a very large surface, preferably the floor as most tables simply will not be big enough for this large piece of wood. If you do have a big enough table, remember to cover it to prevent any damage or surface scratches.

Starting with the bottom shelf, attach each shelf section to the side of the pantry cabinet – which is still lying flat on the floor at this point. Place each shelf into the relevant cams and dowels, making sure everything aligns correctly. Once you have done the bottom, middle and top shelf, tighten all corresponding lock nuts. Remember, this unique locking mechanism only requires half a turn to ensure a proper lock. Forcing it any further than this could cause it to crack the wood which will lead to rigidity problems, especially when moving the cabinet at a later point. Now install the back panel and tap into place using the mallet for a tight fit. Place the other side of the cabinet on top of the shelves and back panel, sliding them into their relevant dowels and cams and tapping with a mallet for a proper fit. This may require someone to help you line everything up correctly due to the size of the pieces you are working with. Tighten all relevant lock nuts to ensure rigidity for the framework which now consists of a number of pieces of wood. If not locked, you may break off a dowel if pieces are allowed to move.

Finally, install the toe kick panel and lock into place once it is lined up correctly.

Congratulations, your pantry kitchen cabinet is complete!

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