Building face-frame cabinets used to
be a fairly complex process for me.
After marking the appliance and sink
locations on the walls, I would measure
the intervening spaces and key
them to a drawing of the cabinets.
Back in the shop, I would use my calculator
to add, subtract, and juggle
numbers in an attempt to make the
cabinets fit the spaces and to develop
an accurate cut list. It was haphazard,
stressful, and prone to error.
Then I discovered story poles. I
now use story poles to make a permanent
record of all my cabinet components,
along with their relation to
doors, windows, and appliances.
Having a fixed reference is not
only invaluable for complex cabinet
layouts; it's