Sylvania Ohio built-in - Step 3

Its time to make the upper cabinet.  This is going to be a full 8' wide cabinet, by 18" high.  By using 1/4" painted birch for the back, it will keep the weight down.  I start by constructing the box, and allow for the trim on the ends.  Again, you will want to make sure the unit is square before completely nailing it together.  I've also used glue, as needed.

I am going to hang the cabinet using a french cleat.  This is a board, ripped down the center on a 45.  I can mount one of the halves to the wall, anchoring it to the studs and making sure it is level. The other half is mounted to the back of the cabinet.  The cabinet can then be easily installed in one smooth step, eliminating the need to hold it in place while trying to screw it into a stud.  French cleats are great ways to hang cabinets!

I've attached the bottom apron to the cabinet to allow proper centering between the windows...