Plan for a kitchen island

A kitchen island is handy, not to mention a great place for kids to do homework at while you prepare dinner. The following plans are fairly simple, but you can modify them to match your needs and carpentry skills.

When you are planing your island, consider the space available. If your kitchen is long and narrow, you will want an island that is also long and narrow, or one that is on casters so you can move it as needed. Most islands are about 34" tall,(if you are going to use casters, consider their size when planning the height), but again you can modify this to make it the ideal work height for you. If you want to use your island for storing kitchen tools, then you will need to take that into consideration when planning the size.

Your kitchen island, with or without casters is a box, with a slightly larger top. Build your box, and make sure it is square by measuring diagonals. If you want doors on one or two sides you will need to make them at this point. Your last step will be to put the countertop on.

When installing the doors, insure that they hang straight, otherwise they will be difficult to open, or may not close completely. Consider the type of hardware your kitchen cabinets have when deciding what type of knobs and hinges to put on.

Your countertop will be slightly larger all around. How much larger, will depend upon the uses you anticipate for your island and the space available in your kitchen. You can either purchase a pre-made countertop, or use 1/2 inch plywood, topped to match the rest of your kitchen. Don't forget to finish the edges.

If you want something a little different, consider using a wooden barrel, with a door cut in one side as a base for your island. If you make a circular top for it you will have an attractive island, that is one of a kind. You might consider using a microwave cart, or similar piece of furniture as a base. Almost anything with a top to match the kitchen can become an island.

Use screws rather than nails to hold your island together, since they will be less likely to pull out, and can be tightened as needed. You will also want to put a hard finish, such as poly-urathane on the island to help keep it looking attractive after you finish.

If you work carefully, and make sure to measure, measure again and cut once, you can have a beautiful addition to your kitchen. Giving yourself more work, and storage space in your kitchen.