Everything you need to know about finding a Cabinet Maker

Cabinet making is the construction and installation of cabinets, carcasses, cupboards, wall units, shelving, drawers, furniture, vanity units, laundry units and bars. Cabinet makers primarily work with wood however new technologies can see them working with metal, rock or vinyl as well. Read on for more information about cabinet makers:

©Carl's Kitchens

What Cabinet Makers Do

Cabinet makers perform the following tasks, among others:

• Building and repairing custom fixtures or furniture
• Making or repairing flat panel products
• Fitting and assembling prepared components (i.e. flat pack kitchens)
• Prepare drawings from job specifications
• Making layouts and templates
• Operate woodworking equipment
• Cutting and assembling wood and wood substitute components
• Application of veneers, stains, paints, laminates or polish
• Fit hinges, locks, shelves, drawers and latches where appropriate
• Estimation of materials required and cost of project

Cabinet Making Projects

Cabinet makers will work with you to help you design the right product for your home and family needs, whatever that product may be. They will be able to design a product that will suit your budget. However, once you and your professional are in agreement, it is important that you stick with what you have decided as modifications to the original design can be very expensive. Here are the various projects cabinet makers can assist with:

• Kitchens: In any kitchen renovation, you will most likely need new storage and shelving solutions to maximise the new space. A cabinet maker can design, measure, create and install such elements in the kitchen including cupboards, drawer systems and wall units. For more information see kitchen cabinet maker.
  
  
• Bathrooms: Cabinet makers can help you maximise space and enhance storage in even the smallest bathroom. They can install built-in cupboards, vanities, shelving and medicine cabinets. This will help your bathroom stay free from clutter. For more information see bathroom cabinet makers.
  
  
• Bathroom vanities: Bathroom vanities are a crucial element of any bathroom, keeping knicks and knacks out of sight and the space clutter-free. Cabinet makers can design, make and install the right bathroom vanity to suit your bathroom and budget. See bathroom vanities for more information.
  
  
• Home Office: A well-designed home office can help take the stress out of work. Cabinet makers can help you utilise the space and design a solution to best suit your needs and budget, whether you want a heritage or modern style, crafted from wood, marble or perhaps laminate. See home office cabinet makers for more information.
  
  
• Benchtops: Choosing a stylish and practical benchtop to suit your kitchen can be a daunting task. Cabinet makers can craft the ideal benchtop for your space, using a range of materials including marble and laminate. See benchtop cabinet makers for more info.
  
  
• Bookcases: Bookcases are a versatile storage solution for storing books, vases, plants and ornaments. Cabinet makers can produce a bookcase using a wood and finish of your choosing. They can also craft a range of storage solutions for special collections of vinyl records etc. See bookcase cabinet makers for more info.
  
  
• Built-in furniture: This is a popular option offering seamless integration of furniture with your interiors. Cabinet makers can customise a solution offering you a wide choice of materials, colours, finishes and styles to match the decor of your home. For more information see built-in furniture cabinet makers.

©Eurotrend Design

Choosing a Cabinet Maker

When selecting a cabinet maker, firstly ask to see their insurances and qualifications. It is also important to ask for quotes so that you have an idea of how much the project will cost. If the work is being carried out in your home, ask for an estimated timeline so that you have an idea of how long the project will take and what kind of inconvenience you can expect (such as not being able to cook while a new kitchen is being installed).

Find out if the cabinet maker will provide other professionals that may be involved in your job such as plasterers, tilers, plumbers, electricians and painters. This will be especially useful if the cabinet maker is working on a bathroom or kitchen project. Finally, ask if a guarantee is provided on the work.

How Much Does a Cabinet Maker Cost?

Cabinet makers will generally charge based on the amount of time a project takes, as well as the amount of materials used. The quality of materials is another factor to consider - MDF and plywood structures should cost less than solid timber. A ballpark hourly figure that cabinet makers would charge is in the $50 range, depending on location and their experience.