Media unit build

chib

Hi,

I've recently had my TV wall mounted, wires plastered into the wall and freshly papered - it's looking great.

Unfortunately I'm having a hard time finding a unit that we'd like to use in place of our existing corner TV unit so I've considered putting something together myself. The local timber merchants offer a range of different woods and have a cutting service so I'm thinking of buying from them and having them perform the cuts to the size I require. I don't have any woodworking powertools like a circular saw, etc.

Firstly, I've never attempted this before but I have been building IKEA furniture for years and other than the worktops and plumbing fitted our kitchen myself. I've made a sketch of a media unit that would be perfect for our requirements - this will hold our TiVo, Xbox & AV Receiver. I've factored in a cupboard at the bottom I'd include a shelf in so wires could be stored at the bottom and some things like phone chargers, controllers above them out of the way.

Is this achievable? What wood would (Sorry!) be best for this task? I've linked below to the sketch I made assuming the wood is 20mm thick but I can adjust this. Any tips on putting it together - special screws? Drill pilot holes first?

Many thanks in advance, I think if it isn't too difficult would be a great way to have a nice unit perfect for our needs.

Thanks,
Chib.

vansboy

I would have thought that as you have had Ikea before, the Besta range could create something for you, for less than the price of getting something made bespoke.

VB

flashg67

Much more satisfying to have go yourself though?

I'd say it was do-able. Perhaps take a tip from the flat pack stuff, which seem to have sturdy fixings at the main joints - say at the bottom and middle 'shelves' then dowel & glue for the rest.
Stained softwood would be cheaper, but would look better in oak or similar, but much more expensive if you have to replace a piece if you make a mistake of course!
The hidden cam-fixings that Ikea are so fond of, or even furniture blocks could be used. Practice on some scrap first.
Sounds like a practical use of a few evenings/weekends though, good luck!