Need Help Planning Kitchen Island Build (Calling All FOGers)

[WastedP]

Thanks wastedp for the reply. What calipers do you use?

Any other feedback out there for the best top to complete my plan (or no top at all)?

I worked in a shop where there was a Mitutoyo caliper sitting at every machine, and they were great and sturdy.  I have a much cheaper $50 generic caliper that feels like it's always going to break.  I treat it like glass, store it in a foam case, and have to change the batteries in it way too often.  So, what I use is definitely not what I would recommend.

 

[tiki man]

Hey Grasshopper,

this will be easy. If you are going to wrap or apply finished end panels and faceframe on all side of the island I would construct the interior boxes with pre finish maple nova ply product. ( then no finishing is needed for the interior of the casework ) with only the interior of the casework being seen before applying finished end panels you can nail or screw all interior boxes together. Pre finished maple edge band can be used on all exposed edges where doors or drawer are located if any ( shouldn't need that if you are building with face-frame ). Apply the finished end panels from the inside of the casework with screws, or headless pins with glue ( you will have to sand the exterior side of the pre finished materials for glue to work best or use Rue Glue ) ( and don't forget to include gaps to simulate door gaps between end panels )

Also make sure your end panels will have the correct dimensions to have constant stile widths all the way around the casework..

Make a pre-finished box and wrap with finish panels.. This will look great. 

You have the best of both world here. Using pre finish materials for the interior and paint grade exterior can clean up and look great

 

[tiralie]

Thanks wastedp for the reply. What calipers do you use?

I worked in a shop where there was a Mitutoyo caliper sitting at every machine, and they were great and sturdy. 

Yes, the Mitutoyo caliper is great. Very accurate with auto shut off.

Any other feedback out there for the best top to complete my plan (or no top at all)?

Use a 3/4" top and a 1/2" back rabbeted into the sides, top and bottom. Makes a strong box, and the back isn't so thick as to make cut outs for plumbing and electrical to much of a PIA.