the pieces (figure 3-69) and assemble them in place. Think of building in-place cabinets in four steps.

1. Construct the base first. Use straight 2-by-4 lumber for the base. Nail the lumber to the floor and to a strip attached to the wall. If the floor is not level, place shims under the various members of the base. Later, you can face any exposed 2-by-4 surfaces with a finished material, or the front edge can be made of a finished piece, such as base molding.

Figure 3-69.-Typical frame construction of a cabinet.

2. Next, cut and install the end panels. Attach a strip along the wall between the end panels and level with the top edge. Be sure the strip is level throughout its length. Nail it securely to the wall studs.

3. Cut the bottom panels and nail them in place on the base. Follow this with the installation of the partitions, which are notched at the back corner of the top edge so they will fit over the wall strip.

4. Finally, plumb the front edge of the partitions and end panels. Secure them with temporary strips nailed along the top.

Wall units are made using the same basic steps as the base units. You should make your layout lines directly on the ceiling and wall. Nail the mounting strips through the wall into the studs. At the inside corners, end panels can be attached directly to the wall.

Remember to make your measurements for both base and wall units carefully, especially for openings for built-in appliances. Refer frequently to your drawings and specifications to ensure accuracy.

Shelves

Shelves are an integral part of cabinetmaking, especially for wall units. Cutting dadoes into cabinet walls to fit in shelves may actually strengthen the cabinet (figure 3-70.) When adding shelves, try to make them adjustable so the storage space can be altered as needed. Figure 3-71 shows two methods of installing adjustable shelves.

Whatever method of shelf support you use, make sure that your measurements are accurate and the shelves are level. Most of the time, you will find it easier to do your cutting and drilling before you start assembling the cabinets. If the shelf standards are the type that are set in a groove, you must cut the groove