Step 1: Fasten Extras

a. If any additional pieces are not fastened to the cabinet itself fasten them appropriately.

i. In my case one of the shelf slots were not mounted, so I used wood glue to fasten the piece to the cabinet.

Step 2: Prepare the Exterior

a. Use scrapers and a hammer to peel off any exterior finishes that are glued to the cabinet.

i. Make sure to scrape off as much of the remaining glue as well

b. Use a coarse grained sandpaper on the exterior to provide a rough surface for the glue that will be used in the future.

i. Make sure that any markings on the back are sanded off. I also advise you to finish the back piece off with a finer sand paper for a smooth finish.

Step 3: Cutting the Tiles

a. Use the basic dimensions of your cabinet to help you plan out the cutting of your tiles.

i. Keep in mind that you will want an overhang on the top piece of ¼” each side except for the back, and that you will want small spaces for the grout as well.

ii. Also note that you will want to preserve the natural edges of each tile.

iii. By placing one edge flush to the face of the cabinet, you can use a felt pen or marker to trace your cut line. ALWAYS DRAW ON THE BOTTOM SIDE OF THE PLATE!

iv. If your cabinet is taller than your tiles you will need to make multiple pieces to coat each side.

v. Also use however much of an overhang you want for the front face border.

b. After planning out and marking the cut lines for each of your pieces, use whatever tile cutter you have available to cut precisely along the lines.

i. Make sure to cut the sides first, so that you can double check the dimensions of the top piece before cutting it.

ii. Use a square angle to help find that straight cut as well.

c. After cutting the top plate Sketch up an attractive cut pattern on top (Optional)

i. Using the same techniques as listed above, you can create an attractive finishing pattern on the top.

ii. Keep in mind that the design will be mirrored once the pieces are cut.