Hinges

[hookset]

Have a couple of cabinets to install. I need to put on the hinges. Any hints?

[surferman]

Install Hinges

Hold the hinge in place as a template, and score around it using a utility knife. Score all the way around three sides of the hinge. This will keep the wood from splitting as you chisel out wood to flush-mount the hinge.


A large hinge might require use of a router, but a small hinge like the one in our demonstration can be installed using just a hammer and sharp chisel. With the scored markings as a guide, chisel out a mortise for the hinge-plate to rest in. Chisel out just enough wood so that the hinge can sit flush with the surface of the wood.



Once the wood is chiseled out, pre-drill holes for the mounting screws that will hold the hinge in place. To ensure that the holes are centered precisely, you may want to use a specialized self-centering bit. The guide sleeve on the outside of the bit makes sure that the hole is centered.



With the hinge in place, set the bit over the hole in the hinge and drill the first hole. Repeat for the other holes.



Once the guide holes have all been drilled, install the hinge using flat-head wood-screws.