Cabinet balances form and function

An elegant balance of form and function, Craftsman-style furniture possesses a refined simplicity that blends well with almost any decor. That simple elegance is what gives this Craftsman-style curio cabinet project its classic appeal. Equally at home in the dining room or the den, the cabinet is perfect for displaying collections ranging from fine china and crystal to antique fishing reels and wooden decoys.

As pictured, the project is made from oak (the traditional choice), but other species will work just as well. True to the Craftsman spirit, the project features simple joinery and straightforward construction techniques. Most of the cuts are straight and the curves are traced from full-size patterns.

How to build it

To build, trace the pieces onto wood and cut everything out. Next, assemble the project using glue and nails, then hang the doors and install the glass door and side panels. To finish, install the shelves. For a truly dazzling effect, there’s room in the top for an interior light.

The curio cabinet measures 72 inches tall by 36 inches wide by 14 inches deep.

How to order the plan

The Craftsman Curio Cabinet plan, No. 901, is $9.95 and includes step-by-step directions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, construction diagrams, a shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line for project questions.

A package of Craftsman-style furniture plans, No. C149, is $22.95 and includes this project plus plans for a grandfather clock and a bookcase with glass doors. A free catalog picturing dozens of do-it-yourself projects is also available. Please include $4 for postage and handling and allow about two weeks for delivery.

To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, 3800 Oceanic Drive, Suite 107, Oceanside, CA 92056. To order by credit card, call (800) 828-2453. Visit U-Bild on the Web at u-bild.com.