Simple Shop-Made Stands for Cabinet Assembly
One of the biggest challenges when assembling a cabinet or other casework project is keeping everything square. And when you're working with large panels, simply holding the pieces upright while applying glue and positioning clamps can be frustrating.
It's one of those jobs where an extra set of hands would make all the difference.
That's why I like these shop-made cabinet assembly stands. They're easy to build from a few scraps of MDF, and they hold wide panels upright so you can concentrate on getting the joints aligned and the case assembled.
Make the MDF Assembly Stands
Each stand consists of just three pieces of MDF: a base and two vertical supports.
Start by cutting the base to size. Then cut two parallel dadoes across it, spacing them to match the thickness of the cabinet material you're working with.
The dadoes hold the two upright supports, creating a narrow cradle that keeps a panel standing on edge.
Glue the supports into the dadoes, making sure they're parallel and square to the base.
The space between the supports should allow the panel to slip into place without excessive movement.
You can also adjust the height of the supports to suit the size and weight of the workpieces you typically assemble.
Support Cabinet Panels During Glue-Up
Using the stands couldn't be much easier.
Position a pair of stands on your workbench and slip the bottom edge of a cabinet panel between the supports.
The stands keep the panel upright while you apply glue, position mating parts, and prepare the clamps.
For longer panels, use additional stands as needed to provide support along the length.
This arrangement is especially helpful when assembling cabinet sides, shelves, and other wide case components that can be awkward to balance on edge.
WOODSMITH TIP: Make Stands for Different Material Thicknesses. I keep several sets of these stands in my shop to accommodate different workpieces. The basic construction stays the same. The only thing that changes is the spacing between the upright supports. You can make sets for common plywood and solid-wood thicknesses so the stands are ready whenever you need them.
An Extra Hand for Cabinet Assembly
A few of these simple MDF stands can make cabinet assembly much more manageable.
They hold panels upright, free your hands for positioning clamps, and make it easier to keep parts aligned during glue-up.
Just remember that the stands are temporary assembly aids, not substitutes for properly securing the completed joints. Keep tall or heavy panels from tipping, and check the case for square before the glue sets.
For the cost of a few MDF scraps and a little shop time, you'll have a useful woodworking assembly jig that can come in handy on project after project.
More Woodworking Tips & Tricks
Some of the most useful woodworking accessories are also the simplest. From shop-made finishing aids and workholding solutions to handy jigs and time-saving techniques, a few small improvements can make a big difference.
Discover more practical Woodsmith woodworking tips and tricks to make your time in the shop easier and more productive.
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