Video

Build a Frame

By Tim Rousseau Aug 07, 2012

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Videos in the Series

Build a Small Cabinet: Introduction
August 7, 2012

Get an overview of frame-and-panel case construction.
Build a Frame
August 7, 2012

Begin by selecting lumber and milling parts. Mortise the legs and start building the external frame.
A Smart Technique for Tenons
August 7, 2012

Rousseau continues building the external frame. Learn his unique method for cutting tenons on the bandsaw.
The Blades
August 7, 2012

Join the front of the case with three flat connectors called blades. They're attached to the case with double tenons and two dovetails.
Runners and Kickers
August 7, 2012

Complete the web frame with parts that help the drawer slide smoothly.
The Panels
August 7, 2012

Enclose the case with panels. Get tips for cutting rabbets on the tablesaw and see how to bevel the top safely on the bandsaw.
Smooth Surface for a Finish
August 7, 2012

Save time finishing by doing surface prep before glue-up. Get lessons on hand-planing and see how to taper the legs.
The Moment of Truth: The Glue Up
August 7, 2012

See the piece come together and get tips for a successful glue-up.
Make a Flat, Sturdy Door
August 7, 2012

Learn how to make a square, stable door that fits perfectly in the case.
The Ultimate Knife-Hinge Lesson
August 7, 2012

Don't let these low-profile hinges intimidate you. Rousseau demonstrates a straightforward technique using double-sided tape, a trim router, and a chisel.
Piston-Fit Drawer
August 7, 2012

Learn the high points of drawer-making using half-blind and through-dovetails.
The Drawer, Continued
August 7, 2012

See the drawer come together and get tips on fitting it to the case.
Finishing Touches
August 7, 2012

Hang the door, install a door catch, apply a finish, install the top, and add the pulls.

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About This Video Workshop

This video workshop is an excellent vehicle for mastering case construction. The series will show you the fundamentals of building a square and stable case to withstand seasonal changes and the test of time. The project includes a variety of unique joinery techniques. The external frame is secured with basic mortise-and-tenon joints but construction gets interesting when you start on the internal web frame. The front of the case is joined by connectors called blades.… More about this Video Workshop

Comments

pbernhardt | Oct 11, 2016 08:39am | #1
I like Rousseau's work a lot and he is an excellent teacher. But for those of us without the budget, space or inclination to use special purpose machines, you can do this using hand-tools only. It just takes more time. Nonetheless, this is an excellent series.

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