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Pinked coloured hallway storage cabinet with several cushions neatly arranged on top of it.

Overview

Do you need a storage solution for odds and ends like reusable shopping bags, umbrellas, school shoes and dog leads? You can create a D.I.Y. hallway storage cabinet using a trio of storage inserts and MDF panels.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Cut your timber

Using a circular saw with a straight edge, cut three 1200mm x 450mm x 16mm MDF panels to 1080mm long. Cut two of these to 400mm wide for the top and base. Cut the other to 338mm as the back. Cut remaining panels to 338mm wide. From these, cut two sides and two dividers 384mm long.

2Drill holes on top and base

On the top and base, use a countersinking bit to drill six evenly spaced holes 8mm in from one edge. Position them against the back, apply adhesive, clamp and secure with 30mm screws.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: Lay the back flat on the workbench to assemble.
3 pieces of timber attached together to form base and sides.

3Drill holes along each join and apply adhesive

Position the sides against the back, flush with the top and base. Countersink five evenly spaced holes along each join, 8mm in from the edge. Apply adhesive, clamp and secure with 30mm screws.

Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: Hold at both ends with 600mm quick-grip clamps.
Drill being used to create holes in side of cabinet.

4Mark dividers and countersink holes

Position the dividers 338mm from the ends. Use a combination square to check that they’re straight and mark around them. At the front, mark the centre of the dividers and transfer lines along the top, base and back to countersink five holes along each.

Divider positioned in between sides and base of cabinet.

5Secure dividers and fill holes

Remove the dividers to apply adhesive. Reposition them inside the marks, checking they’re square and straight, and secure through the holes with 30mm screws. Use a scraper to smooth over the holes with filler and leave to dry.

Divider marks on inside of cabinet’s sides.

6Position leg plates, drill and secure

On the base corners, position leg plates 10mm in from the edges to mark holes. Drill centre holes with a 9mm bit to 14mm deep. Drill screw holes with a 2mm bit to 3mm deep. Secure plates with the supplied screws using a flathead driver bit. Twist in the legs.

Leg plate position in corner of the base of the cabinet.

7Sand the cabinet and apply enamel

Sand the cabinet (including the feet and the fronts of the inserts) using a 180-grit disc. Wipe with a cloth. Use a mini roller to apply primer and two coats of water-based enamel, leaving to dry after each coat. Install supplied cube handles with a screwdriver.

Paint roller applying white paint to cabinet.

8Keep in mind…

  • Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask when using cutting tools and sanding equipment.
  • The cabinet is designed as a bench seat for one adult and is not for climbing or standing on.
  • *Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

9After more D.I.Y. projects to try?

Check out our guide to creating this camping lounger to laze in.

Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.



Photo Credit: Cath Muscat; (steps) Michael Pointon

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.