What will you do?
The trade is also known as furniture maker, chair maker or restorer of antique furniture. You work from a work order: you mark out the shapes on the wood, bring the parts to size, set up and adjust the woodworking machines and check the safety devices. You shape, bend and glue the pieces, assemble the frame, fit the hardware and treat and finish the wooden surfaces.
- Determine the working method from the work order
- Mark out shapes and reference points on the wood
- Bring parts to size and set the machine parameters
- Shape workpieces on conventional woodworking machines
- Glue veneer and assemble the frame
- Treat and finish wooden surfaces and fit the hardware
- Maintain the machines and keep work records
Skills to develop
- Craftsmanship and feel for wood as a material
- Precise and careful, an eye for detail
- Insight into technical drawings and work orders
- Safe working with woodworking machines
- Creativity for custom work and finishing
Your foundation for this occupation
Assess furniture construction, material movement and visible finish. Furniture must be strong, function well and look carefully finished.
From preparation to your first day
Develop the practical skills
Build a drawer or small cabinet from drawing to finish. Practise joints and hardware installation on samples first.
Check your work
Check gaps, drawer and door movement and finish under different light. Account for grain direction and solid-wood movement.
How can you grow?
Specialise in bespoke solid wood, veneers or restoration and develop design or workshop responsibility.
Frequently asked questions
Is cabinetmaking the same as kitchen fitting?
Cabinetmaking focuses on furniture construction and manufacture. Installation additionally requires site measurement and junctions with walls, floors and other services.