ReadyMade: Instructions for everyday life

1. Arrange the wooden shelves side by side. Together, they will form the countertop.

2. Clear a workspace where you can make a bit of a mess. Apply a small amount of wood glue along the edges where the shelves meet. Place clamps at each end and allow glue to dry overnight or according to manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Remove the file drawers and place the cabinets side by side. To connect the cabinets, drill six holes along the shared wall of the inside of each (two on the top, two in the middle, and two on the bottom) using the 3⁄16" bit. Secure with metal screws and nuts.

4. Attach a shelf bracket to the center of the back side of each cabinet with metal screws, making sure that their tops are flush with the top edge of the cabinets, where the countertop will rest.

5. Detach the shelf brackets for painting and save the hardware.

6. Using the 9⁄64" bit, drill four holes in a square pattern through the top of each cabinet where the countertop will sit.

7. Paint the cabinets and brackets and allow to dry overnight.

8. Unclamp the shelves. Lightly sand away any glue residue from the countertop. For a more finished look, apply a couple of coats of varnish. Allow to dry.

9. Flip the file cabinets upside down. Attach the casters to each of the outside corners with metal screws.

10. Flip the cabinets right-side up and lock the casters with brakes. Place the countertop on top of the cabinets. Leave a 1" overhang on the front edge, where the drawers are, and a 1" center overhang on each side. Working from the underside of the cabinet tops, attach the countertop through the pre-drilled holes with wood screws.

11. Now reattach the shelf brackets to the cabinets with metal screws and secure with nuts on the inside of the cabinets. Attach the top of the shelf bracket to the countertop with wood screws.

12. Insert drawers and get cooking!

tip: We installed a footrest on the back side of the cabinets. We used a handicap handlebar, but any towel rack or fridge handle will do. Towel or utensil hooks can be attached underneath the countertop overhang or mounted to the side of the file cabinets.

We installed a footrest on the back side of the cabinets. We used a handicap handlebar, but any towel rack or fridge handle will do. Towel or utensil hooks can be attached underneath the countertop overhang or mounted to the side of the file cabinets.