Cabinet Maker

Working Schedule

• Cabinet Makers work full-time with most work done indoors. They must often travel to job sites in their local area or to stores to purchase lumber and supplies.

Typical Duties

• Design custom cabinetry and furniture based on client specifications
• Review project specifications with designers, clients, or architects
• Examine technical drawings or blueprints and plan the schedule of work
• Estimate budgets, including labor and supplies
• Verify the dimensions of where a piece is going to go, to ensure it will fit
• Operate computer-aided drafting (CAD) software to produce plans and models
• Inspect equipment or tools for proper functioning; perform routine maintenance and repairs, as needed
• Select and order lumber and materials needed to complete work assignments
• Measure, mark, and cut lumber stock to specifications
• Operate tools such as power saws and other machines
• Trim, sand, or scrape surfaces or joints to prepare pieces for finishing
• Attach parts or subassemblies to form completed units using glue, dowels, nails, screws, or clamps
• Apply finishes (such as paint, stain, or varnish) to completed products using brushes, sprayers, or rollers
• Install hardware (such as hinges, handles, catches, or drawer pulls) using hand tools

Additional Responsibilities

• Maintain work records; keep track of inventory and customer orders
• Repair or alter wooden furniture, cabinetry, fixtures, paneling, or other pieces
• Practice good safety when using tools and machines
• Stay up-to-date on techniques, tools, and programs

Soft Skills

• Accuracy 
• Analytical 
• Business acumen (for self-employed workers)
• Customer service
• Detailed-oriented
• Excellent hand-eye coordination
• Manual dexterity 
• No severe dust allergies or breathing issues 
• Patience 
• Perseverance
• Problem-solving
• Project management 
• Quality assurance
• Safety-minded 
• Sound judgment and reasoning
• Strong communication skills

Technical Skills

• Assembly techniques
• Basic math calculations
• Blueprint reading
• CNC machine operation (for modern workshops)
• Drafting and design, including computer-aided design (CAD)
• Edge banding
• Estimating materials and costs
• Installation and fitting techniques; installation of hardware (e.g., hinges, handles)
• Joinery techniques (e.g., dovetail, mortise and tenon, biscuit)
• Knowledge of adhesive application
• Knowledge of drawer slide installation and adjustments
• Knowledge of modern materials (e.g., melamine, MDF)
• Laminating
• Layout and marking techniques
• Proper use of hand tools (e.g., chisels, planes, saws) and power tools (e.g., table saw, band saw, router)
• Safety procedures
• Sanding and finishing techniques
• Sharpening tools
• Understanding of wood movement due to moisture changes
• Use of clamping devices and jigs
• Veneering
• Wood bending techniques
• Wood selection and identification
• Woodturning (for custom pieces)

• Self-employed
• Cabinetmaking businesses
• Homebuilding companies
• Retail outlets
• Museums
• Theater/film production companies
• Educational institutions
• Design studios

Cabinet makers are expected to merge both artistic flair and technical prowess. They must craft pieces that are functional and aesthetically appealing, which requires a keen eye for design—plus a mastery of woodworking techniques!

While making a name for themselves, they might have to invest in tools and materials, if they are self-employed. Cabinet makers often face long workshop hours, risking physical strain and potential injury. The time commitment becomes even greater as trends and technology shift, requiring them to keep up with the changes. 

In recent years, minimalism has dominated cabinetmaking, with clean lines and unadorned facades becoming a staple in modern homes. The push for simplicity has seen a preference for handleless cabinets and neutral color palettes.

Sustainability is another emerging trend. Cabinet makers are increasingly sourcing eco-friendly materials, emphasizing reclaimed woods and low-VOC finishes. This shift not only caters to environmentally-conscious consumers but also promotes longevity and durability in cabinetry.

Lastly, technology integration is reshaping traditional cabinet designs. Features like built-in USB ports, touch-to-open mechanisms, and under-cabinet lighting showcase how modern cabinets are evolving to meet the tech-savvy demands of contemporary living spaces.

Many cabinet makers, in their younger years, showed an affinity for hands-on activities. They might have enjoyed hobbies such as woodworking, crafting, or building models. Engaging with tactile experiences like whittling, assembling toy sets, or repairing household items likely ignited their passion for creation, serving as a foundation for their journey into cabinetmaking!