RTA Assembly Guide

The basics are the same across every collection (plywood box, solid wood face frame, dovetail drawer box), but some cabinet types differ in the details (a blind corner base goes together differently than a simple wall cabinet). Always check the instruction sheet in your specific box.

General Assembly Steps

Step 1. Unpack + Check

Unpack and check. Lay everything out on a clean, flat surface, match the parts to the packing list, and look each piece over for damage.

Something missing or damaged? Email support@1800cabinets.com before you start, and don’t assemble around a bad part.

Step 2. Build the Box

Build the box. Run a thin bead of wood glue in the face-frame grooves where the side panels seat. Slide the sides in and lock them with the metal clips or L-brackets.

Add the top and bottom panels into their grooves, then slide in and secure the back panel. Check it with a square before the glue sets; square now saves you grief later.

Step 3. Build the Drawer

Glue the dovetail joints on the drawer sides and tap them together with a rubber mallet until fully seated. Slide the drawer bottom into its groove and secure it, then attach the drawer front with the screws provided.

Step 4. Hang the Hardware

Mount the concealed undermount glides inside the box using the template or sheet. Attach the 6-way adjustable soft-close hinges to the door, then to the face frame, and adjust until the door sits level and even.

Step 5. Shelves and Extras

Drop the metal shelf pins into the pre-drilled holes at the height you want, set the 3/4-inch plywood shelves on top, and add any extras like door bumpers.

Need Help?

If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call Mon-Fri between 9am - 5pm ET at 1-800-419-8969, or email us at support@1800cabinets.com.

Before You Begin

If “ready to assemble” makes you nervous, take a breath. This is a screwdriver-and-an-afternoon job, not a woodworking project. Every cabinet ships flat-packed in one box with everything inside: face frame, side panels, top and bottom, back panel, shelves, drawer parts, and all the hardware (clips, brackets, screws, cam locks). You’ll need a few basic tools.