How to Build a Console Bathroom Vanity

When building a bathroom vanity cabinet there are many options available. You will have lots of things to consider and think about. Many people will choose to buy a vanity cabinet off the shelf. However, you can actually get much more for your money if you build one yourself.

With all of the right tools and accessories available you should be able to easily build a console bathroom vanity unit. This project should only take about a weekend.

Step 1 - Planning

The first step involves planning your bathroom vanity cabinet. The normal height of these cabinets is 30 inches from the floor. However, this can differ if you are much taller or shorter than average. A vanity cabinet isn't actually anything complicated. It is nothing more than a three sided box which is fitted against the wall.

Decide on the size of the vanity unit you want to install. Remember that the size of the unit will restrict the types of sink which can be fitted. A typical type of vanity unit off the shelf will normally be around 24 inches wide.

Step 2 - Choosing Your Sink

Now you know the size of your cabinet you can decide on the type of sink you want to fit. You can fit any sink as a vanity unit. However, it will be much easier if you use a sink which has a built in counter top. This means that you don't need to worry about cutting any holes in counter tops or doing anything complicated.

Step 3 - Constructing the Frame

First cut and make the basic frame of your vanity unit. It's often easier to make this out of 2x2 lumber so that your frame is nice and sturdy. The frame will not be visible when the vanity unit is completed so it doesn't matter whether you miter the joints or not. If you are considering placing a shelf inside the unit then now would be a good time to add the supports to the frame.

Step 4 - Covering the Vanity Unit

Once the basic frame has been constructed it then needs to be covered in whatever material you have decided to work with. Typically this will be either tongue and groove wooden slats, or alternatively it might be plywood sheets. These can be fixed onto the frame using screws or nails, just ensure that you are screwing into the wood of the frame and don't hit another screw.

Attach the covering to the two sides of the vanity. Do not place anything over the frame at the back. For the front of the vanity, create a frame around an opening the size of the doors you have made or purchased. Secure a bottom on the vanity to hold the contents above the floor.

Step 5 - Hanging the Doors

Once the frame is covered it's then time to attach the doors. The hinges should be fixed to the 2x2 timber frame as this will be more stable than anything else. Depending on the types of hinges used the fitting methods will be different. Once the frame has been drilled it's then possible to hang the doors.

Step 6 - Finishing Touches

Once you are happy with the size and finish of the vanity unit you can then paint or stain the outside of the unit. Install it in place and add the sink once the paint or stain has dried.