In the video titled “How to Make Cupboard Doors and Fit Soft Close Hinges for a Mercedes Sprinter Campervan,” Greg Virgoe provides a step-by-step guide on how to create and install cupboard doors with soft close hinges for a Mercedes Sprinter Campervan. He uses specific materials such as Morland Lightweight Furniture Board, black iron on edge banding, and GTV soft close hinges. Greg emphasizes the importance of sharing the video on social media and subscribing to his channel, while also providing a donation link for those who found the content helpful.
The video showcases the completion of a high-level wall cupboard build in a Mercedes Sprinter Van conversion, specifically focusing on the bedroom and kitchen cupboards. Viewers will learn about different hinge options, the use of iron-on edge trim, pre-drilling pilot holes, and using templates for hinge placement. The installation of one of the cupboard doors is highlighted, demonstrating the adjustable nature of the hinges and the seamless grain matching on the cupboards. Overall, the video aims to provide valuable information and resources for individuals undertaking similar van conversions.
Materials and Tools
For the construction and installation of high-quality cupboards, the following materials and tools are essential:
Morland Lightweight Furniture Board
The Morland Lightweight Furniture Board is an essential material for building cupboards. This board is lightweight yet sturdy, making it ideal for creating durable and practical cupboard structures. It is available in a variety of sizes and finishes, allowing for customization to suit any interior design aesthetic.
Black Iron-on Edge Banding
To give the cupboard edges a polished and professional look, black iron-on edge banding is a must-have. This material is easy to apply and provides a smooth and seamless finish to the edges of the cupboards. The black color adds a touch of elegance and blends well with various cupboard designs.
GTV Soft Close Hinges
GTV Soft Close Hinges are an excellent choice for cupboard doors. These hinges offer a soft closing mechanism, preventing doors from slamming shut and reducing the risk of damage. They are durable and provide a smooth operation, ensuring that the cupboard doors open and close effortlessly.
Introduction
Creating functional and aesthetically pleasing cupboards is crucial for any residential or commercial space. Whether it is a bedroom cupboard or a kitchen pantry, well-designed cupboards enhance storage capacity and organization. In this comprehensive article, I will guide you through the process of building and installing cupboards using the Morland Lightweight Furniture Board, black iron-on edge banding, and GTV soft close hinges. We will cover the construction of bedroom cupboards, the installation of LED strip lights, the building of kitchen cupboards, choosing the right hinges, using iron-on edge trim, pre-drilling pilot holes, and creating a hinge placement template.
Building the Bedroom Cupboards
When building bedroom cupboards, it is essential to consider the available space and the specific requirements of the user. Start by measuring the area where the cupboards will be installed and determine the desired height, width, and depth of the cupboards. Once the dimensions are established, cut the Morland Lightweight Furniture Board to the appropriate size using a saw or any other suitable cutting tool. Assemble the cupboards using adhesive and screws, ensuring that the joints are secure and sturdy. Once the basic structure is complete, attach the black iron-on edge banding to the exposed edges to create a sleek and professional finish.
Installing LED Strip Lights
To add a touch of modernity and functionality to bedroom cupboards, installing LED strip lights is an excellent option. LED strip lights provide efficient and ambient illumination, making it easier to find and organize belongings within the cupboards. Begin by selecting the appropriate length of LED strip lights for the cupboard space. Measure and cut the lights accordingly, ensuring that they fit precisely along the interior top edge of the cupboards. Using adhesive or clips designed for LED strip lights, secure them in place. Connect the strip lights to a power source, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Finally, test the lights to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Building the Kitchen Cupboards
The kitchen is an area that requires well-designed, functional cupboards to ensure efficient storage and organization. When building kitchen cupboards, it is necessary to consider the specific needs of the space, such as dedicated storage for food and cereals, as well as control panels for kitchen appliances.
Large Cupboard for Food and Cereals
Start by planning the layout and dimensions of the large cupboard for storing food and cereals. Consider factors such as access, shelving, and organization. Cut the Morland Lightweight Furniture Board to the desired dimensions and assemble the cupboard. Ensure that the shelves are adjustable to accommodate varying heights of food items. Apply black iron-on edge banding to the exposed edges to create a clean and stylish look. This large cupboard will provide ample storage space for pantry essentials, keeping them organized and easily accessible.
Smaller Cupboard for Control Panels
In addition to food storage, the kitchen typically requires cupboards for housing control panels for kitchen appliances such as ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers. Plan the layout and size of the control panel cupboard, ensuring that it can accommodate various sizes of control panels. Cut the Morland Lightweight Furniture Board to the desired dimensions and construct the cupboard structure. Install the necessary shelves and compartments to house the control panels securely. Apply the black iron-on edge banding to the exposed edges. This smaller cupboard will provide a dedicated space for organizing and displaying control panels, making it easier to operate and maintain kitchen appliances.
Choosing the Right Hinge
Selecting the right hinge for cupboards is essential to ensure smooth and reliable operation. When choosing hinges, consider factors such as the cupboard material, door weight, and desired functionality. GTV Soft Close Hinges are a popular choice due to their durability and smooth closing mechanism. These hinges are designed to prevent cupboard doors from slamming shut, reducing the risk of damage and providing a quieter and safer cupboard environment. Consider the size and weight of the doors to ensure that the hinges can support the load. Additionally, opt for hinges with adjustable features to allow for precise alignment and fine-tuning.
Using Iron-on Edge Trim
Iron-on edge trim is a versatile and effective method for finishing the edges of cupboards. It provides a clean and professional look by covering exposed edges and preventing any moisture or dirt from entering the board material. To use iron-on edge trim, start by cutting it to the required length. Ensure that the surface is clean and free from dust or debris. Apply heat using an iron, activating the adhesive on the trim and bonding it to the edge of the cupboard board. Use a roller or a cloth to ensure a firm bond between the edge trim and the board. Trim any excess material for a neat and seamless finish.
Pre-drilling Pilot Holes
Pre-drilling pilot holes is a crucial step when working with the Morland Lightweight Furniture Board and hinges. These pilot holes help prevent the board from splitting and ensure accurate installation of hinges and other hardware. Start by marking the desired positions for hinges or other fasteners on the cupboard board. Choose an appropriate drill bit size, slightly smaller than the screws or fasteners being used, to create pilot holes at the marked positions. Ensure that the pilot holes are drilled straight and to the appropriate depth. Pre-drilling pilot holes will simplify the installation process and ensure the longevity of the cupboards.
Creating a Hinge Placement Template
Creating a hinge placement template is a time-saving technique that ensures consistent and accurate positioning of hinges on multiple cupboard doors. Start by cutting a piece of scrap board to the desired size, similar to the cupboard doors. Mark the desired hinge positions on the template board, ensuring that they are consistent with the desired placement on the doors. Pre-drill pilot holes on the template board to match the hinge holes. Place the template board on the cupboard doors, aligning the markings with the desired hinge positions. Secure the template in place and use it as a guide to pre-drill pilot holes and install hinges. This technique eliminates the need for measuring and marking each door individually, ensuring consistent and precise hinge placement.
Conclusion
Building and installing cupboards require careful planning, precise measurements, and attention to detail. By using the Morland Lightweight Furniture Board, black iron-on edge banding, and GTV soft close hinges, it is possible to create functional and visually appealing cupboards for various applications. Whether it is a bedroom cupboard or a kitchen pantry, following the step-by-step guidelines outlined in this comprehensive article will help you achieve professional results. From constructing the cupboards to installing LED strip lights, choosing the right hinges, and using iron-on edge trim, every aspect of cupboard construction and installation has been covered. With the right materials, tools, and techniques, you can create beautiful and practical cupboards that enhance any living or working space.
