I have built 3 cabinets with drawer fronts made of solid tiger maple (each drawer is 12 inches high X 28 inches long) with cock-beaded edges. I have a fourth cabinet whose overall width is identical, but only half its width will be exposed and accessible. I do not want drawers (I need to access the unexposed half of the cabinet which will be tucked into the corner). For aesthet reasons I have made matching panels of solid tiger maple with cock-beading (12 inches high X 14 inches long). PROBLEM: I am nervous about about the possibility of wood movement for a 12 inch wide piece of solid wood and how it might effect a pair of hinges and/or the case side and/or the panel itself. I came up with the idea of using a pair of ball catches (top and bottom) for each panel so I can just snap it out when I need access (I plan to use this space for storage and don’t really need easy, regular access). I can position the males to allow for expansion and contraction of the panel. I would appreciate feedback: 1: Would I really be looking for trouble if I made a door with hinges? 2: Any other solutions? My 14 year old suggested a flip top design (“like the garage door”). Not a bad idea, but I wanted to keep it simple.
Howard
Replies
Howard,
Your 12" wide maple will likely move around 1/8" from summer to winter. Grain direction is matching the drawers, right? I'd recommend hinging it at the bottom, with your catch/lock at the top. If you relieve (slight bevel) the top inside edge it will give you a little more breathing room for the door to swing. As long as you allow for movement, you'll be ok.
Regards,
Ray
Hook and loop, or velcrow may be easier to use, however if you use too much, it will be hard to remove if you can't get to one edge.
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