It's possible to make drawers from manufactured board off-cuts.

However most workplaces use patented systems developed by specialist manufacturers.

The final choice will depend on the style of the cabinet, the client's taste and, of course, the budget for the project.

The simplest example of a drawer comprises an open box with a front, back and sides made of 16 mm white particleboard and an MDF base.

A separate drawer front is fitted to match the cabinet doors.

There is generally 12-13 mm of free space between the inside of the carcase and the outside of the drawer sides to allow for the runners.

Pre-finished drawers

Vinyl wrapped drawers are made from particleboard covered in vinyl. They are grooved to take the drawer bottom, and sometimes also for the drawer slides.

Mitres are pre-cut to allow for quick assembly.

Metal drawers come in a range of patented designs.

The drawer slides are generally incorporated into the design, and enable the drawer to be assembled and adjusted easily.

Adjusting drawer fronts and runners

You'll find more details on drawer fronts and runners in the lesson 'Drawers' from the unit Adjusting cabinets on-site.

This includes simple installation and adjustment procedures.