This was such an easy project, but yet it made a big difference to a small, two-piece bath. I wanted a medicine cabinet, but did not want to pay upwards of $200 CAD for a cheaply made cabinet from a big box store. I had an old mirror. I had some 1x4s. I had the makings of a DIY cabinet! This was one of the first projects that I did and I have definitely learned a lot since then. But I am still very happy with this cabinet after having built it almost two years ago. Small projects can be great learning projects. 

I based my measurements on the mirror. I kept the outer edge of the box frame smaller than the mirror so that the “door” had a nice overlap on all edges by approximately 1/2″. It looks so much neater that way and no knob is necessary because you have that overlap to grasp when opening the door.  

I prepared my 1x4s by sanding them before and after cutting on the compound mitre saw. I used pocket hole joinery (Kreg jig and screws) to assemble the box frame, which has 2 side pieces and 4 shelves. I also added a 1×2 under the top shelf/frame to hang the cabinet. The 1×2 made it simple to hang by screwing directly into the 1×2 then into a stud in the wall behind. Very sturdy. I always try to avoid the use of hollow wall fasteners. 

I bought hinges that have a visible overhang and a magnet closure to keep the door firmly closed. I used semi-gloss white paint that I had on hand. I build this cabinet for $17 CAD. It has definitely earned its investment. 

For this project, you will need: 

• Drill and Impact Driver, or just a drill if you don’t mind switching bits. I prefer the Ryobi One+ line: RYOBI 18V ONE+ Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2-inch Drill/Driver and Impact Driver Kit with Batte… | The Home Depot Canada 
• Kreg Jig for pocket holes: KREG Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig 320 | The Home Depot Canada 
• Mitre saw
• Screws in the right size for assembly and hanging. I used 2-1/2″ wood screws to hang the cabinet. You have to allow for approximately 1.5″ of material before you hit the stud and begin anchoring your cabinet. 
• Sander and sand paper in grits 80-220 from start to finish sanding depending on how rough the 1×4 is. I used framing lumber. My two sanders are: RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless 1/4 Sheet Sander (Tool Only) | The Home Depot Canada; RYOBI 18V ONE+ Cordless Corner Cat Finish Sander with Sandpaper Assortment (Tool Only) | The Home Depot Canada 

• Two 1″x4″8′ boards: HDG 1X4X8 MILLSTEAD SPF SDRY | The Home Depot Canada 
• One 1×2: HDG 1x2x8 Framing Lumber | The Home Depot Canada 
• Two hinges: Richelieu Self Closing Hinge – Brushed Nickel | The Home Depot Canada 
• Magnetic closure: Richelieu Magnetic Catches – Metal – White – 1 39/64-in W x 33/64-in H x 3/4-in D BP52030 | RONA 
• Paint and brush 

• Level to hang cabinet  
• Stud finder 
• Safety glasses for cutting and sanding
• Mask for sanding

*I have no affiliation with any of the companies listed