Replies

1. 
   MBerger | Dec 09, 2006 11:02pm | #1

   Sorry Furniture,

   I meant to get to your question but as it moved down the list it slipped my mind.

   I just spent a few minutes studying the corner cupboard Garrett Hack built for issue #175 (see link below) and it seems to me that it is constructed in a way that will withstand major expansion and contraction. There really is no part that will fail, even if the wood undergoes excess contraction due to the nearby radiators.

   http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/ProjectsAndDesign/ProjectsAndDesignPDF.aspx?id=24116

   I can think of a few tips you might want to keep in mind as you're building the piece.

   1. If you install molding around the top or bottom, as with Garrett's piece, you will want to secure the molding to the case side close to the miter. However, let it move freely on the other end. That way, as the side panels move the miter will stay closed and any gap will be where the cabinet touches the wall.

   2. If you build the piece in the winter when it's dry, you can expect that the parts will expand a lot come summer (especially if you live in a humid climate). So account for that expansion when you size parts that fit in dadoes, such as shelves or frame and panels.

   3. Using plywood for the back panels that rest against the wall is not a bad idea.

   4. If the design allows, you might consider making the exposed sides as frame and panels, which will be able to handle expansion and contraction better than a solid panel. Here's an example from the Gallery: http://www.taunton.com/finewoodworking/Gallery/GalleryImage.aspx?id=25456

   Write back and let me know if that helps.

   Regards,
   Matt Berger
   Fine Woodworking

1. 
   furniture | Dec 10, 2006 11:57am | #2

   matt,

   thanks for your swifly reply. I had looked to the corner cabinet too. but as mentioned mine has to come close to the radiators, and this rang a bell. your advice however overcomes my hesitation to start on it. the dimensions of the side frames are only 22,5 cm, a bit small for frame and panel construction. in garret hack's corner cabinet all the (solid)sides are build around the horizontal boards with dadoos grooves. I suppose they are glued as well. Is this not a problem for expansion and contraction?

   anyway I can make a start, thanks again and I will see some of your work in fww undoubtely.

2. 
   furniture | Feb 08, 2007 11:39pm | #3

   matt,

    

   it has been a while since you've send your options for the corner cabinet. last week I've delivered the cabinet. so it's time to let you know things have worked out fine. in general I took the construction from garret hacks's corner cabinet. but I started with the front and build the rest of the cabinet to it (the opposite way arround). wall sides and bottom and shelve were made of sheet material at the front fitted with solid wood (pine). thanks again and hope to be in touch some day. kind regards. F. PS  if you're like to see a photo please state your email adress  and I'll mail it.

1. 
   MBerger | Feb 09, 2007 12:02am | #4

   Thanks for the update Furniture! Glad to know things worked out for you. By the sound of it, your construction method will prevent any potential movement).

   You can post a photo to this forum using the "attach files" button at the bottom of the edit window (unless your using a Mac). Or you can email me at [email protected].

   - Matt