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How to build an eco-friendly entertainment center

Introduction

Cut the Maple

Cut the maple to size. The TV top section will consist of two long 3/4-inch maple sides, two shelves (one of which will have a shorter depth), and a 1/4-inch maple back. The lower sections will consist of two small adjoining cubbies that have three 3/4-inch maple shelves and a 1/4-inch maple back.

Step 1

Create a rabbit cut

Use the table saw to create a rabbit cut along one edge of the two long pieces, which will serve as the sides of the TV section. This will allow the back to fit snugly inside the frame once it's assembled.

Step 2

Create holes

Mark a row of three cookies in two long pieces along the two edges and another row 6 inches below one of these rows. On the connecting pieces, make three marks on the corresponding thin edges. Use the biscuit joiner to create holes at each of the marks.

Step 3

How to build an eco-friendly entertainment center

Attach the tables

Place cookies and glue inside the three rows on the long pieces. Attach the lowest perpendicular board to the biscuit holes that are 6 inches below the trim and one of the other boards to the bottom biscuit holes. Place the second long sandwich piece perpendicular to the two shelves.

Stage 4

How to build an eco-friendly entertainment center

Attach the third shelf piece

Attach the third shelf piece to the top row of cookie holes.

Step 5

How to build an eco-friendly entertainment center

Add the braces

Attach the clamps to the unit to hold the pieces together while the glue dries. Flip the unit over and add more clamps so that each of the pieces is held firmly together. Use a square to make sure the pieces are square before continuing to the next step.

Step 6

Put the maple back

Turn the unit to its true bottom and make sure everything is tight. Put glue around the bunny cutout along the back edge and slide the 1/4 in. maple. In place with the best side facing in, as it will be visible. Hammer in place with a mallet for a better fit. Staple around the trailing edge with a pneumatic stapler for good measure.

Step 7

Create two back cabinets

Create two lower cabinets in one for the upper cabinet to lean against. Cut the pieces to size and create a bunny cut on one side of the longer pieces where the back will slide.

Step 8

Attach the three shelves

Attach the three shelves to the cabinets with cookies and glue. The bottom shelf should rest a few inches above the bottom of the unit to create legs. Staple the 1/4-inch maple bracket in place.

Step 9

How to build an eco-friendly entertainment center

Secure the two cubicles

Attach the two cubicles together and secure with screws to make one large unit.

Step 10

Pin the trim in place

Measure and cut the walnut trim with a hacksaw. Cut a mitered edge into pieces that connect at the corners. Glue the walnut trim along each of the exposed edges, including the bottom edge along both sides, and nail the trim in place.

Step 11

Secure the top section

Attach the top section to the bottom cubby section with 1-1/4-inch screws. Screw in from the bottom so the screw heads are not visible.

Step 12

How to build an eco-friendly entertainment center

Attach the doors

For the doors, cut two kirei boards the same size so they cover the open TV section. Attach the kirei with sliding hinges so the doors can slide back into the unit when open.