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Measure Cubbies and Acquire Drawer Components

From Under Stair Storage · Step 1 of 7 · Video by Kim Emery

Showing 0:18–0:19 of the source video.

What happens in this clip

Before purchasing or building any components, it is crucial to accurately measure the interior dimensions of the existing mudroom cubbies. For each cubby, measure the exact width, height, and depth. These measurements will guide the selection or construction of your drawer boxes and the appropriate size of drawer slides. Ensure that the chosen drawer boxes are slightly smaller than the cubby opening to accommodate the drawer slides on either side, as well as leaving a small gap for smooth operation. The video showcases existing cubbies that are being fitted with new wooden drawers, implying that careful measurement and planning were undertaken.

Goal: Obtain precise dimensions of existing cubbies and source appropriately sized drawer boxes and slides.

What's used

Tools

  • Measuring Tape
  • Ruler

Materials

  • Drawer Boxes (pre-made or custom-built)
  • Solid wood drawers
  • Drawer Slides
  • Roller slides
  • Undermount slides
  • extendable movement for the drawers within the cubbies.

About the full video

This project guides you through upgrading an existing mudroom or entryway cubby system by installing pull-out drawers. This DIY enhances shoe storage and organization by converting open cubbies into functional drawer units, as briefly demonstrated in the video.

Step 1 of 7: Measure Under-Stair Space

Using a tape measure, record the height, width, and depth of the entire under-stair area. Pay close attention to any angled walls or obstructions that will affect the placement and size of the storage units. Measure at multiple points to account for any irregularities. These measurements are critical for creating a design that maximizes the usable space.

Open this step in the guide

Other videos for this step

Under Stair Storage

This project involves designing and building custom drawers or pull-out carts to maximize storage space within the often-underutilized area beneath a staircase. The process includes measuring the space, designing the storage units, selecting appropriate materials, cutting and assembling the components, and installing them into the stair cavity.

Read the full guide Browse all guides

Planning this project? Shop Oak Valley Designs.

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