Drawer Calculator
Drawer boxes are all about clearances. Enter the cabinet opening, pick a slide profile, and get every panel of the drawer box cut to size.
Workshop AI assistant
Describe the piece you want to build and get a complete plan: dimensions, cut list, materials, cost, steps, tools and time.
Workshop assistant
Describe the piece you want to build and get a complete plan: dimensions, cut list, materials, cost, steps, tools and time.
AI-generated results are indicative. Verify dimensions, loads and local codes before building.
How it works
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1
Measure the internal opening width, depth and height of the carcase opening.
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2
Choose a slide profile (side-mount, under-mount…).
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3
Enter the material thickness of the drawer sides, front and bottom.
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4
Calculate: you get side, front, back and bottom panel sizes plus clearances.
Formula
Side length = internal depth − front panel thickness (for drawers with a front mounted on the box) or internal depth for a front covering the opening. Side height = front height − material clearance. Drawer width = internal width − slide clearance (typically 2× the slide thickness). Bottom = (drawer width − 2×side thickness) × side length.
Practical tips
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Always read the slide manufacturer datasheet — clearances differ by brand.
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Cut the bottom in 4–6 mm plywood or hardboard, stapled or sliding in a groove.
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Add 2–3 mm vertical play so the drawer runs even if the carcase settles.
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For soft-close slides, respect the recommended box width precisely.
Common mistakes
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Using the external width instead of the internal opening width.
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Forgetting the slide thickness on both sides.
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Making the front exactly the opening size with no reveal or overlap.
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Ignoring the manufacturer clearance for soft-close under-mount slides.
Disclaimer
These results are indicative only. Always verify against local building codes, standards and professional advice before building.
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CalculateRelated guides
- How to Calculate a Cabinet From overall size to every panel: the simple breakdown of a cabinet carcase.
- How to Calculate Drawer Dimensions The clearance rules for drawer boxes with side-mount and under-mount slides.
- How to Build a Drawer Box From clearances to joinery: the complete drawer box build with the sizing formulas.
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