How to Build a Fitted Wardrobe Using MDF (Step-by-Step Guide)

What if we told you it was really easy to build your own fitted wardrobe using MDF?

Even better, how would you feel if we told you it can be done in a single weekend?

Yes, it's true!

In this article, we're going to share with you how it's done... simply!

Most bedrooms have a common problem – too many items to store, and not enough storage space!

This leads to a lot of clutter and items stored in all sorts of impractical places. If you are in this kind of situation and would gladly like to do something about it, then continue reading...

How to build a fitted wardrobe yourself

A fitted wardrobe will help you make the best use of your limited space, and you will not have to spend a fortune making it

You could fit a wardrobe underneath a staircase, or in a small corner of a room, enabling you to gain more storage space.

You can also customise it just the way you like, making it easier to complement any existing furnishings or colour schemes

It's fairly simple to build a wardrobe yourself by using affordable MDF boards.

Just go through the following steps to see for yourself.

1. Determine the Space

You will first need to decide where you intend to place your wardrobe.

Measure the space so as to plan it out.

You will want to make maximum use of the height available, especially if your floor space is limited.

2. Set Your Dimensions

Once you've measured up your space, you will then need to set out the overall dimensions of the wardrobe.

Ideally there should be a width of about 50cm per door, or double that for a double doored wardrobe.

Make sure you consider the way the doors will open, and the layout inside the wardrobe.

Remember... it's always a good idea to think about the types of items you intend to store in your wardrobe.

This will enable you to plan properly in terms of number and types of shelves, hanging space and drawers.

So... always plan ahead!

3. Get the Right Tools

You will need to have the right tools to make the job as easy as possible. Never try to cheat. Tools make light work!

You will need:

• measuring tape
• good quality screws at various lengths
• a saw
• an electric drill
• electric screwdriver or impact driver
• a wood plane
• wood glue or suitable adhesive

4. Define Compartments

You will need to spend a considerable amount of time planning on paper

This is to make sure that you define all the compartments that there will be inside the wardrobe, as well as the various panels and parts you will have to have for each and every one of them.

18mm MDF panels are ideal for the outer parts as well as the inner compartments, whereas 12mm wide panels can suffice for the door panels.

When going to buy the MDF boards, make sure to take the dimensions of all the individuals parts with you as most timber stores will cut them out for you, saving you a great deal of time and effort.

Smaller cuts can be easily done at home with a handsaw, but the longer cuts are much harder and time consuming unless you have a good quality jigsaw or circular saw.

You will need to start off by setting up the outer frame of the wardrobe.

Reinforce the joints of these outer structure panels with corner brackets as well as screws.

When this structure is in place, you can then move on to the smaller parts, that is, the various inner compartments.

5. Shelves & Drawers

Make sure to mark all the panels and parts as this will make it easier for you when you start forming the drawers and compartments.

It's a good idea to create grooves which will allow you to slide the required panels inside easily, before screwing them up to the horizontal panels above and below, or to vertical ones on the sides.

Make sure everything is properly aligned.

Drawers can be constructed really easily.

Measure up the four parts, glue them to one another, and finally screw them up together.

Attach the runners on the sides, and insert into the wardrobe to see that they fit properly and align well.

You may wish to install a front panel for more sturdiness and to install the knob more easily.

Shelves are even easier to make than drawers!

All you need is panels, and the side fittings to place them onto when inserting them into their rightful places inside the wardrobe.

And finally, install the doors! Your wardrobe is practically finished!

6. Materials & Finishing

With regards to materials, you will need plenty of MDF boards cut to the required size.

MDF is smooth, so there is no need for sanding, other than at the edges where the cuts have been made.

7. Hardware & Handles

You are going to need many screws.

Try to choose screws that do not make a very large hole when fastened to the panels.

You will also need drawer runners for drawers.

You will need knobs or handles for drawers and for the wardrobe doors.

Corner brackets are recommended for more sturdiness, and you will also need brackets for the shelves.

And that's practically it... you're virtually done!

As you can see it is really easy.

All you need are some basic tools, affordable materials and hardware, and some forward planning!

See It in Action

If you are still unsure how to follow our guidelines, watch this amazing video uploaded to YouTube by Charlie DIYte for really helpful instructions on making your own fitted wardrobe using MDF sheets: