COURSE CONTENT
This course has ten lessons, as outlined below:
Lesson 1. Nature and Scope of Cabinet Making
- Introduction to Cabinet Making
- Design of Cabinets
- Types of Cabinets
- Construction Materials
- Career Opportunities in Cabinet Making
Lesson 2. The Cabinet Maker’s Workshop
- Introduction to the Workshop
- Workshop Safety
- Workshop Tools and Equipment
- Hand Tools
- Power Tools & Machinery
- Sawing Machines
- Other Equipment
- Tool Care
Lesson 3. Job Preparation
- Introduction to Planning
- Taking Measurements
- Measurement Equipment
- Understanding Technical Drawing
- Types of Drawings
- Making Drawings for Clients
- Taking On-Site Measurements
- Estimating Costs
4. Cabinet Construction
- Benchtops
- Strength in Construction
- Frameless Construction
- Framed Construction
- Cabinet Making Jigs
- Adhesives and Sealants
5. Cabinet Doors
- Introduction to Doors
- Cabinet Styles
- Types of Cabinet Doors
- How to Make Doors
- Hanging Cabinet Doors
- Hinge Types and Installing Hinges
- Sliding Doors
6. Cabinet Drawers
- Drawer Design Introduction
- Making Drawers
- Types of Joints
- Drawer Fronts/Panels
- Installing Drawers
- Installing Kitchen Benchtops or Work Surfaces
- Installing Wall Cabinets
- Adjusting Fitted Units
7. Onsite Installation
- Installing Base or Floor Cabinets
- Installing Benchtops or Work Surfaces
- Installing Wall Cabinets
- Adjusting Fitted Cabinets
8. Free-Standing Cabinets
- Versatility of Free Standing Cabinets
- Types of Cabinets Room by Room
- How to Make Free-Standing Cabinets
9. Finishes & Furniture
- Surface Preparation for Finishes
- Finishing with Paint
- Using Stains
- Special Finishes - Veneers
- Natural Timbers Finishes
- Outdoor Finishes
- Protecting the Insides of Cabinets
- Cabinet Furniture
10. Special Project – Build a Cabinet
- Option A: Making a Cabinet
For this option the cabinet to be constructed can be a relatively simple cabinet such as a small wall cabinet/medicine cabinet for a bathroom, or it can be a free-standing cabinet like a dressing table or linen cupboard, or it can be a fitted cabinet like a built-in wardrobe, bathroom cabinet, or kitchen unit.
- Option B: Restoring or Altering a Cabinet
Alternative project for those unable to make a cabinet:
Students must restore a cabinet or make significant alterations to a cabinet. The cabinet selected for restoration or modification can be any sort of cabinet that the student has access to.
Written by experienced ACS content writers with knowledge and skills in engineering, construction, carpentry, materials technology and design.
The course varies in breadth across ten lessons, with expertly designed tasks and activities to support depth of learning too. A practical and hands-on course which demands commitment and dedication from students.
Some of What You Learn
- All components of cabinets, cabinet materials, types of cabinets and the role of cabinet makers.
- Workshop layouts, hand tools, power tools and how to operate them.
- Job preparation for projects, and recognise specific skills needed to prepare well.
- How to construct different types of cabinets.
- Different styles and components of cabinet doors.
- The construction of drawer boxes and fronts, including the installation of the front panel, and explain the completed drawer installation.
- Safe and proper onsite installation of wall mounted or fixed cabinetry.
- The construction and assembly of free-standing cabinets.
- How to finish different types of cabinet making materials.
- Construction of a cabinet or restore or make alterations to an existing cabinet.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
What are the benefits of studying Cabinet Making?
You’ll get skills that are in demand and highly valued by potential employers.
You can create or modify furniture to fit your space, needs, and style (and do repairs/upgrades).
You can become part of the sustainability movement by becoming more self-sufficient.
Cabinet making teaches precision and repeatability, which carries over to many other construction and DIY projects.
Producing something functional with your own craftsmanship is very rewarding.
It can be a strong foundation if you later want to pursue woodworking/carpentry professionally.
What is the course duration and format?
There are 10 lessons.
The course can be completed in approximately 10 weeks.
Each lesson includes experiential tasks, a self-assessment test, and a written assignment.
There are also some practical projects built into the course where you get to test your cabinetry skills.
Assignments and projects are marked by our expert tutors and returned with written feedback.
There is an optional exam upon completion of the course.
The course is self-paced. Study wherever you want, whenever you want.
How long can I access course materials?
You have all the time you want. We don't have a cut-off date. You can continue to access your course indefinitely. This is one of the ways we are different.
You can review and revisit course material as often as you like, helping to reinforce learning and improve retention.
Can I use this course as a credit toward a qualification?
Yes. This can be used as a module in a variety of certificates and diplomas with ACS or in a degree with one of our affiliate partners, Warnborough College.
Various other universities and colleges around the world have also assessed and given credits for our courses in degrees.
Who is this course for?
DIY beginners building or repairing furniture e.g. shelves, cabinets, television stands
Career explorers or career changers seeking a hands-on pathway into woodworking/cabinetry
Homeowners improving their skills to reduce reliance on contractors
Hobbyists wishing to produce practical joinery-based projects
Anyone wanting structured, beginner-friendly training in workshop skills and basic joinery
Carpenters and joiners wishing to expand skills
Builders and trades people
Entrepreneurs and small business owners
Ready to Enrol?
If you're ready to enrol or have any questions, please follow the instructions at the top of the page.