No one would argue that family life centers around the dining room table - and why not? Great food, warm, inviting atmosphere and familiar conversation. But once the meal is finished, the table cleared and the dishes done, parents and kids alike usually migrate into the family room for an evening of TV or music. Everyone gathers around the entertainment center to unwind and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
The entertainment center has been a staple of modern families for decades and while it's easy to pull out the credit card at the local department store, a custom built unit you make yourself will bring years of enjoyment and pride. This is an easy, do it yourself at home project that doesn't take a lot of time, is
relatively inexpensive and can be built with tools you probably already own but there are a few things to consider.
Wood Shelving Brackets
Size Does Matter
The biggest consideration will be the size of the unit. Room size will be the determining factor with a consideration toward how big a TV will need to fit. Will the unit contain storage for DVD's or books?...and are there electrical outlets near the intended location?
Back To Basics
You don't need half the inventory at the Home Depot tool department to complete your project (although it would be nice to have!). The main tools you'll need are a measuring tape, saw and screwdriver. Of course powered tools, like a skill saw or tablesaw and electric screwdrivers make the job that much easier. Electric sanders, brackets and or wall mounts, fastening materials like screws and finish nails along with stains, and brushes will nicely round out your arsenal.
Materials
Although hardwoods like oak and maple can be used, 3/4 inch plywood will do the job and be sturdy enough to complete the task. It will also save you a little green and of course, money has to be a consideration is nearly everything we do nowadays.
Plan Ahead
Make a drawing or sketch of your project. It doesn't need to be a massive 6 page artist's rendering but should include measurements or at least estimates of the general size and shape. This will give you a general idea of the amount of materials you'll need and an idea of the overall costs. Color and finish are factors but can be decided once parts have been cut and dry-assembled to give you a feel for the finished unit.
Also, it may not occur to you at this point but don't discount the possibility of one day needing to move your entertainment center. A modular unit built with this in mind will save you time and headaches you can do without. Will it be easy to dis-mantle and re-assemble in its new location?
After constructing the frame, you will want to think cabinet size/shape and shelving. This wants more attention to detail than the frame simply because even a small mistake will show here. Precise measurements between cabinet walls is essential at this point. A miscalculation here could cost you another trip to the hardware store or an out-of-square cabinet.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Once the measurements are made and the pieces cut, you'll want to assemble them without glue or nails. This insures you first measured correctly, and secondly you had the eye hand coordination to cut straight. If everything dry fits, give yourself a pat on the back, you'll have sawdust on you anyway!
Final Approach
Final assembly can be done either in the workshop if the unit is small enough to be handled by two people or can be brought piecemeal to the final location if you decided on the modular approach. Once assembly is done, insure the unit is stable so it doesn't tip once your TV, stereo, books and what-not have been loaded into it. If necessary, wall brackets can be mounted to add more stability.
Now, invite the family in to showcase your creative talents and marvel in your, I mean the entertainment center's splendor!
Black Friday Rubbermaid 3H91 Configurations 26-Inch Add-On Shelving Kit, Titanium 2011 Deals
Nov 27, 2011 09:17:51
Click for larger image and other views
Black Friday Rubbermaid 3H91 Configurations 26-Inch Add-On Shelving Kit, Titanium Feature
- Storage shelf kit with two 26-inch shelf pieces
- Works as either a single-tier, 4-foot shelf or as 2-tier 2-foot shelves
- Includes 4 brackets and mounting hardware
- Long lasting epoxy finish
- Satin nickel and chrome finish won't rust, chip, or crack
Black Friday Rubbermaid 3H91 Configurations 26-Inch Add-On Shelving Kit, Titanium Overview
Rubbermaid 3H9100TITNM Configurations; Closet Shelf Kit TitaniumRubbermaid 3H9100TITNM Configurations; Closet Shelf Kit Titanium Features:; Durable and stylish closet storage; Provides maximum flexibility for stacking space; Mount separately as two 2' shelves or together as a single 4' shelf; Includes two 26" x 12" shelves, and four brackets; 2.5" x 26.25" to 48" overall dimensions; TitaniumBlack Friday Rubbermaid 3H91 Configurations 26-Inch Add-On Shelving Kit, Titanium Specifications
Quickly and easily add 52 inches of shelving space to help organize that closet, storage room, laundry room or garage with this shelf add-on kit from Rubbermaid. Stacked, the shelves can be used as two 2-foot shelves, or, as one 4-foot shelf when installed side by side. With no cutting necessary for assembly, installation is easy with all the included hardware. Shelves are finished with a long-lasting epoxy that doesn't snag on close and protects from rust. Brackets have a nickel and chrome finish for corrosion resistance. The shelf add-on kit integrates with Rubbermaid's Configurations line of closet organizing components available on Amazon.com. --Brian D. Olson
SAVE NOW on Black Friday offers below!
Available In Stock. |
| This Black Friday Rubbermaid 3H91 Configurations 26-Inch Add-On Shelving Kit, Titanium ships for FREE with Super Saver Shipping. |
Price : Click to Check Update Prices Please. |
Limited Offer Today!! Rubbermaid 3H91 Configurations 26-Inch Add-On Shelving Kit, Titanium Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2011 Deals
Manfrotto Camera Mount Canon 500Mm Lens Leather Storage Cube