Installing RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) kitchen cabinets—especially Shaker-style—is a budget-friendly DIY project. With basic tools and clear steps, you can achieve a polished look without professional labor costs. Below is a streamlined guide to get your cabinets installed smoothly.

Pre-Installation Prep (1–2 Days Before)

1. Gather Tools & Materials

• Measuring: 4-foot level, tape measure, pencil, stud finder​
• Power Tools: Drill (Phillips/spade bits), jigsaw (for pipes/outlets)​
• Hardware: 3–4 inch cabinet screws, shims, rubber mallet​
• Safety: Gloves, safety glasses, dust mask​
• Extras: Painter’s tape, drop cloth, helper

2.Prep the Kitchen

• Clear old cabinets/appliances; patch/sand walls.​
• Shut off water/electricity.​
• Mark wall studs (16 inches apart) with painter’s tape.​
• Draw level lines: 34.5 inches from floor (base cabinets) + 19.5 inches above counter (wall cabinets).

3. Unbox & Inspect

• Unpack carefully; lay parts on a drop cloth.​
• Check all pieces (boxes, doors, hinges, screws) against the manual—ensure Shaker parts are undamaged.​
• Pre-assemble drawers/hinges (most RTA brands have pre-drilled holes).

Step 1: Install Base Cabinets

1.Corner Cabinet First:

• Align top with 34.5-inch line; level, shim if needed.​
• Drill pilot holes into studs; secure with screws (don’t over-tighten).

2.Add Adjacent Cabinets:

• Place next to corner cabinet (flush faces); clamp temporarily.​
• Level, shim, then screw into studs + side-screw to join cabinets.​
• Leave 1–2 inch gap at the last cabinet for adjustments.

3.Toe Kicks:

• Cut to length; attach with screws/adhesive (match Shaker finish).

Step 2: Install Wall Cabinets

1.Start with Symmetry:

• Align bottom of corner wall cabinet with upper layout line; have a helper hold it.​
• Level, mark top edge for reference.

2.Secure to Studs:

• Drill pilot holes into top/bottom rails (2 screws per stud).​
• Shim if tilted; tighten slowly.

3.Join Cabinets:

• Clamp next cabinet flush; side-screw to join (3–4 screws/side).​
• For cabinets above appliances: Leave 30-inch gap (stove) + add extra screws.

Step 3: Install Doors & Drawers

1.Doors:

• Align pre-hinged Shaker doors with cabinet brackets; screw in hinges.​
• Adjust: Vertical (up/down), Horizontal (left/right), Depth (close/far). Ensure frame edges are even.

2.Drawers:

• Slide glides into pre-drilled slots (follow manual).​
• Test drawer box; adjust glides if stuck.​
• Attach fronts (if separate) from inside.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Trim Shims: Cut excess with utility knife; sand edges.​
2. Hardware: Drill pilot holes for pulls/knobs (use template for spacing). Center on Shaker doors/drawers.​
3. Clean & Inspect: Wipe cabinets; test doors/drawers for smoothness.

Quick Pro Tips

• Level twice—uneven cabinets ruin countertops.​
• Always use a helper for wall cabinets.​
• Keep the manufacturer’s manual handy.​
• Don’t rush hardware—misaligned pulls stand out on Shaker styles.

Simplified RTA Shaker cabinet installation saves money and builds pride. Focus on leveling and alignment, and your kitchen will look custom-built. Grab your tools and start—you’ve got this!