Meztisoul

A month ago, I was commissioned to build a cabinet for record storage. My client presented me with a preliminary drawing. We exchanged ideas and agreed on the final design. The purpose: to store records. The aesthetic: to match with the existing hifi furniture. My client has a really neat stereo system. It is an analog system consisting of two Technics 1200 MK7 turntables, a beautiful handcrafted 2 channel mixer by Condesa Electronics, Vincent audio components, and Wharfedale Linton speakers. The cabinet will match the vintage look of the speakers while retaining a contemporary feel. We chose a walnut veneer for the cabinet with a clear satin lacquer finish. The exposed ends will be wood matched edge-banded. One of my suggestions during the initial conversations was to opt out from the mid-century feet for an inset toe-kick construction. The reason being to keep the cabinet from bowing in from the considerable weight it will be carrying from the records. Additionally, the toe-kick will eliminate any dust from building up underneath the cabinet over time. Now to the building process.

Measuring the pieces with as minimal waste possible. This I learned from my experience working at commercial cabinet shop. It takes a bit of prep work in this stage, but with a smart plan, this will save the guess work and prevent errors during the build.

I use a mix of construction screws, 18 gauge brad nails, and wood glue to attach the pieces. Edge-banding consists of walnut veneer, contact cement, and removing the excess with a router. I use an orbital sander with 220 grit to prep for the finishing stage.

I use a polyurethane finish for the clear coat, applying each coat with a brush sanding in between coats. The poly coat gives the grain a warm luster with a durable surface.