How to Make a Surface Mount Medicine Cabinet Part 2

Once you have constructed the actual recess of your surface mount medicine cabinet, you will then want to attach a door to hide away what's inside. You can use a mirror or painted glass for the center piece in this door if you would like. After the frame of your cabinet is completed, you are going to use it to mount the cabinet door and other mounting hardware and latches. Follow the simple steps below to mount your door.

Step 1 - Measure the Opening

You will want to measure the opening to your surface mount medicine cabinet, and add ½-inch to all measurements so it will properly cover the cabinet once you're done. You will want to cut the board to the size you needed before. Use an edging tool to cut a fancy edge around it for added flair.

Step 2 - Cut the Hole for the Mirror or Glass

To cut your mirror hole so it lines up properly, you will want to leaves 1 to 2 inches all the way around the door of the surface mount medicine cabinet. This will leave room for the mounting brackets and hinges later. Take this measurement, and then use a drill to bore a pilot hole for the jigsaw blade. Make sure your starter hole is on the inside of your hole measurement.

Use a straightedge to ensure you get a clean and even cut. Simply cut the mirror hole, and add ¼- to ½-inch for a ledge. Your mirror will rest on this recess in your door, and the hardware will hold the glass in place.

Now that the hole is cut for the mirror in the door of your cabinet, use your edging tool to make a ledge around the inside of the mirror hole. Be sure to be as close to the mirror's thickness as possible on the depth of your ledge so that it will sit flush once installed.

Step 3 - Mounting your Door and Mirror

Once all the cuts are done, you can then sand the surface and the edges so they are smooth. You can also add a clear varnish or a stain to bring out the color of the wood, or you can simply paint it to match your room.

Once the door has been prepped and has had time to dry, you can then insert your mirror and lock it into place with the glass clamps. Attach your hinges from the inside of the door to the cabinet frame to mount your door. Now you have a fancy handmade cabinet that matches the room's decor. You will want to make sure to allow time for stains and or paint to dry before mounting it, to avoid getting it stuck to your walls or frame.

You can also install a door slide bar that mounts on the inside of the cabinet door to your frame to prevent it from being pulled open too far or smash against the wall. You don't have to mount a mirror in the door; you can install painted glass or a painted mirror with a nice image on it as well that will add a special touch to your room.