How to build a sliding-door wardrobe — 124" × 24" × 88 9/16"

Cut list

Step by step

1. Shape tracks and finger openings

   Prepare the matching wooden tracks and finger openings before assembling the cabinet modules.

   • Clamp each track flat to a supported bench.
   • Route both 5/8" grooves against a clamped fence in shallow passes.
   • Set lower groove depth to 1/4" and upper groove depth to 1/2".
   • Drill each 1" finger opening over a sacrificial backing board.
   • Sand the door edges and groove walls smooth.

2. Assemble the lower cases

   Screw each lower module's sides, bottom, top, and divider together with their rear edges flush.

   • Support each lower case flat on padded blocks near its final location.
   • Clamp the top and bottom between the sides.
   • Position each divider 3 1/2" behind the front edges.
   • Drill pilot holes centered on each receiving panel edge.
   • Drive the case screws with the joints clamped.

3. Fit shelves and lower backs

   Install the fixed shelves and screw on the lower backs while each case is square.

   • Clamp each shelf with its underside 43 5/16" above the case bottom.
   • Drive the shelf-end screws into pilot holes.
   • Measure both diagonals of each case.
   • Clamp each pair of back panels with their seam centered on the divider.
   • Fasten the backs to the sides, dividers, shelves, tops, and bottoms.

4. Assemble the upper cases

   Build and square both upper storage modules on the ground before lifting them.

   • Clamp each upper top and bottom between its sides.
   • Position each central divider behind the track area.
   • Drive the frame screws into pilot holes.
   • Match each case's diagonals before attaching its backs.
   • Fasten both backs to all adjoining case edges.

5. Join and restrain the modules

   Arrange the four modules in two stacked towers, join their contacts, and complete site-specific wall restraint.

   • Verify room clearance, access, floor level, and wall fixing locations.
   • Stand the lower cases side by side with helpers.
   • Lift each empty upper case onto its matching lower case with lifting assistance.
   • Clamp all case fronts and adjoining sides flush.
   • Drive the stacking and side-joining screws through pilot holes.
   • Arrange structural wall restraint through solid case material.

6. Install the paired tracks

   Fasten each lower running track and matching upper capture track inside its module.

   • Clamp each lower track flush with the case front.
   • Align the matching upper track directly above it.
   • Drill clearance and pilot holes along the solid rear track strip.
   • Countersink the screw heads clear of the sliding surfaces.
   • Drive all track screws snug.
   • Wax the grooves and door bearing edges lightly.

7. Insert the sliding doors

   Fit the rear door first in each module, followed by the front door.

   • Lift each rear door fully into its upper rear groove.
   • Lower its bottom edge into the matching running groove.
   • Repeat the lift-in motion for each front door.
   • Slide each door slowly through its full available travel.
   • Check the center overlap with both doors closed.

8. Check before loading

   Confirm restraint, smooth sliding, and sound joints before using the wardrobe.

   • Verify the completed structural wall restraint.
   • Inspect every case joint and track attachment.
   • Operate all eight doors without forcing them.
   • Place heavier belongings in the lower compartments.
   • Use a stable platform to reach the upper storage.