How to Build a Portable Kitchen Island Using Base Cabinets
If you decide to build a portable kitchen island using base cabinets, you have a great idea! Most of the work is already done for you, leaving the choice of the countertop material entirely up to you. Occasionally you can get an odd or end base cabinet for a discount.
- Think about the types of food preparation you will do on the countertop, and choose a material that can withstand the type of work you will do on it.
- Research the various materials you can use for your work surface or countertop. If you are a baker, you'll most likely prefer something like granite. Marble is also a good choice for its inherent ability to stay cool and for the perfect surface for kneading bread and rolling out dough. Laminates and solid surface materials are good, too.
- Make a top for your island. If you decided on a laminate countertop, you need to cut out a piece of plywood and laminate that is a couple of inches larger all then your island and glue on countertop edge trim and laminate to fit around the edges. The laminate must be slightly larger than the surface of the plywood to overlap and compensate for the thickness of the laminate edging. Back the laminate edging with a half-inch thick wood blocking for support that has been screwed to the plywood.
- Get a piece of sealed natural stone or solid surface material cut per the necessary dimensions if you chose that material.
- Purchase and install locking caster wheels on the bottom of the base cabinet. Keep them locked while you finish working.
- Squeeze a bead of silicone-based adhesive along the top edges of the base cabinet.
- Carefully place your countertop on, measuring under the edge for an even overhang. You will have a little time to move it around but be quick.
- Enjoy your new kitchen island!