Create a cutting template for accurate measurements.

Use
this guide for each cut piece to follow. (Inset) Use a compass to
create a slight arch from the two depth endpoints. This is the
front of the shelf.
E. CREATE A CUTTING TEMPLATE
1. Transfer your measurements from step D onto a
scrap of melamine that you can use as a template
for cutting the shelves. Do this for both the back
and side walls.
2. Determine the depth of your wall units (this is
most often 14"). Take that amount and transfer it
to your template for the two sides that will adjoin
to the other wall units. They should be 90 to
the back- and side-wall lines (refer to the shelf
template on page 55).
3. For a straight front edge, simply use a ruler to
connect the two endpoints. Tip: Use a compass to
create a slight arch from the two depth endpoints.
This is the front of the shelf.
4. Cut out the template with a circular saw. Save the
curve for last and cut that one with a jigsaw.
5. Place your template in the corner to see how
accurate your measurements are and how well
it fits. If you discover that room corners are not
square or that walls are uneven by more than 1/ 2"
(1/4" on either side of the corner), you will need to
purchase trim pieces-base shoe or cove moldings
or wall shims-to cover gaps between the walls and
your corner unit. Measure these gaps now to make
purchasing the shims later easier.
58 BUILD YOUR OWN CUSTOM CLOSET
F
After tracing around the cutting template, cut out the
shelf. Use a jigsaw for the curve.
F. CUT THE SHELVES
1. Using a circular saw, cut out your corner top piece
using the template as a guide. Cut along all the
marks except the curve, save that for last.
2. Once your top piece is cut out, rough-cut along
the curve with the jigsaw, leaving a 1/8" space in
between the cutline and the jigsaw.
3. Use a router to remove the remaining 1/8" along the
cutline. Note: This ensures a smooth, finished cutline
that is otherwise difficult to achieve with a jigsaw,
making it easier to apply edge banding later. Melamine
edges are often drilled or power planed instead of
sanded because it is difficult to sand a smooth edge
on melamine.
4. Cut out the notched section using the jigsaw.
5. Repeat this process for the middle and bottom
shelf. The bottom shelf for a wall-hung unit will
most likely be at least 12" up from the floor (20"
for this project).
6. Finish exposed edges that you will see from
inside the closet with heat-activated veneer tape
(see page 47).