How to Build a DIY Mirrored Medicine Cabinet Like a Professional

Building a DIY mirrored medicine cabinet can be a rewarding project that enhances both the functionality and style of your bathroom. Whether you choose a surface-mounted or recessed design, follow these steps for a professional-looking result.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need:

Tools:

• Tape measure
• Stud finder
• Miter saw
• Drill
• Caulking gun
• Brad nail gun
• Pocket-hole jig
• Paintbrush
• Drywall saw

Materials:

• 1 2x4x8 lumber
• Screws
• 4 1x6x8 lumber
• Door hinges
• Construction adhesive
• Mirror
• Braid nails
• Pocket screws
• Paint or wood stain
• 3 1/2″ x 2′ x 3′ plywood panel
• 4 3/8″ cove molding
• 1 1/4″ x 18 1/2″ x 26 7/8″ HDF mirror backing
• 2 1x4x2 clear pine rails
• 2 1x3x3 clear pine stiles
• 4 3/8″ x 4 1/4″ cove molding shelf supports

Instructions:

1. Mark the Cabinet Installation Location

• Use a stud finder to locate wall studs for a surface-mounted cabinet, ensuring proper support.
• For a recessed cabinet, check if it fits between two studs. You may need to add a frame if it only fits against one stud.

2. Measure and Cut Out the Cabinet Niche

• Use a tape measure to mark the spot for the cabinet. If recessed, cut the drywall using a drywall saw to create the niche.
• Frame the opening with two 2x4s (top and bottom) secured with screws.

3. Measure and Cut Cabinet Pieces

• Cabinet frame: Cut two 18 1/2-inch pieces for the top/bottom and two 30-inch pieces for the sides (1×6 lumber).
• Back panel: Cut a plywood panel to 18 1/2″ wide x 28 1/2″ high.
• Shelves and supports: Cut four 4 1/4-inch pieces of 3/8″ cove molding for shelf supports. Cut two 18 3/8-inch pieces of 1×6 lumber for shelves.
• Door frame: Cut two 15-inch pieces (rails) and two 28 3/8-inch pieces (stiles) from 1×4 and 1×3 lumber.
• Mirror backing: Cut 1/4-inch HDF to 18 1/2″ wide x 26 7/8″ high.
• Mirror trim: Cut 3/8″ cove molding to fit the mirror’s perimeter.

4. Build the Medicine Cabinet Box

• Use construction adhesive to glue the top, bottom, and back panels to the side frames, then secure with brad nails.
• Attach cove molding for shelf supports on the inside, using brad nails to fasten them.
• Slide shelves into place.

5. Build the Medicine Cabinet Door

• Use construction adhesive and clamps to attach the door rails between stiles.
• Drill pocket holes to secure the rails with pocket screws.
• Attach the HDF mirror backing inside the door frame, then secure the mirror to the backing with adhesive.
• Fit and glue the cove molding around the mirror for a finished look.

6. Attach the Medicine Cabinet Door

• Attach hinges to the door using small screws. Then, fasten the hinges to the inside of the cabinet.
• Install a magnetic catch to keep the door closed.

7. Mount the Medicine Cabinet

• For a surface-mounted cabinet, secure it to the wall studs using 2-inch wood screws.
• For a recessed cabinet, slide the cabinet into the wall opening and fasten it to the framing with screws.

8. Fill Gaps and Paint

• Use waterproof caulk to seal any gaps around the cabinet (especially for recessed installations).
• Finish the cabinet with waterproof paint or wood stain to prevent damage from moisture.

By following these steps, you’ll have a professional-quality DIY mirrored medicine cabinet that adds both style and functionality to your bathroom.