Introduction: Fix It - Kitchen Cabinet Hinge

About: I am a very retired man living in San Diego Ca. These days I wake up and see what my mind has in store for me to make or enjoy. Covid was a game changer and made me realize that life needs to be lived, not jus…
I love Instructables because I am always getting inspired to share my ideas or trick.

The Fix It Contest was no exception.

I currently line in a home that was built in 1957 (the same year I was born)  and like me, some things are just getting old and having issues.

We have a very functional kitchen with lots of cabinets but occasionally a hinge here or there will become loose due to a stripped screw hole.

I am going to show you how to do a quick, easy and inexpensive fix for this problem.

Step 1: The Tools and Supplies

Tools needed:
Screwdriver
Utility knife
Hammer

Supplies needed:
Toothpicks (round or flat) or bamboo skewers
Glue (wood glue or white glue)

The screwdriver head should match the type of screw you have (normally a flat or slotted head or a Philips head)

Step 2: First Step

Remove the original screws and hold on to them, you will be re-installing them at the end.

Step 3: Apply Glue and Wood

You want to apply glue to the end of the toothpick or skewer that you are going to insert into the existing screw hole in the cabinet. I like to use wood glue but white glue will also work. It is is easier and neater to remove the top of the glue bottle and did the end of the toothpick/skewer into the glue. Push the glued end into the screw hole.

Take the hammer and TAP the toothpick/skewer into the hole. Run the utility knife blade around the protruding toothpick/skewer and snap of the excess. Tap the cut area with the hammer to make sure it is flush with the cabinet front.

Step 4: Re-install the Screws and Pat Yourself on the Back

Align the door and re-install the screws (the screws you removed and kept) in to the cabinet face and your project is complete. I DO NOT wait for the glue to dry before re-assembly because I feel that the new wood and the glue will both help keep the screw secure.

When I am able to fix it around the home I feel a sense of accomplishment… even if it is just the little things.

Remember, just because something is broken doesn’t mean it needs to be thrown away or trashed. Fix it and reuse it.