How To Build Roll Out Drawers For Kitchen Pantry Cabinets

How to Construct Roll-Out Drawers for Kitchen Pantry Cabinets

Roll-out drawers are a valuable addition to any kitchen, particularly for pantry cabinets. They offer easy access to stored items, maximizing storage space and organization. Building roll-out drawers is a relatively straightforward project that can enhance your kitchen's functionality.

Materials Required:

Plywood or melamine (for the drawer box and shelves)
Drawer slides (full-extension)
Wood screws
Wood glue
Measuring tape and pencil
Saw (circular or jigsaw)
Drill
Countersink bit

Steps:

1. Measure and Cut the Drawer Box:

Measure the width and depth of the cabinet opening and subtract 1/2 inch from each dimension to determine the drawer box size. Cut two pieces of plywood or melamine to these dimensions for the sides of the drawer box.

2. Cut the Drawer Front and Back:

Cut two more pieces of plywood or melamine to the height of the drawer box and a width equal to the length of the drawer box minus twice the thickness of the drawer sides.

3. Assemble the Drawer Box:

Apply wood glue to the edges of the drawer sides and clamp them to the drawer front and back, creating a rectangular frame. Secure the joints with wood screws, countersinking the screw heads slightly below the surface.

4. Build the Shelves:

Cut the shelves from plywood or melamine to the desired width and depth. Determine the spacing between the shelves and attach them to the drawer box sides using wood glue and wood screws.

5. Install the Drawer Slides:

Attach one half of the drawer slide to the underside of the drawer box near the front and back. Install the other half of the drawer slide to the cabinet floor, ensuring alignment with the drawer slide on the drawer box.

6. Install the Drawer:

Carefully lift the drawer into place and slide it onto the drawer slides. Test the drawer for smooth operation and make adjustments as needed.

7. Finish the Drawer (Optional):

For a more polished look, consider painting or staining the drawer and applying a protective finish such as polyurethane.

Tips:

Use heavy-duty drawer slides that can support the weight of the drawer and its contents.
Consider adding a drawer stop to prevent the drawer from over-extending and falling out.
For added durability, consider using thicker plywood or melamine.
If you do not have a saw, you can have the lumber cut to size at your local hardware store.
Be sure to allow the wood glue to dry thoroughly before using the drawer.

By following these steps, you can build roll-out drawers that will maximize the storage capacity and accessibility of your kitchen pantry cabinets.