Side of Cabinet Storage: How to DIY an Easy Cookbook & Utensil Holder!

Mitch Couch
by Mitch Couch

Ever found yourself rummaging through your kitchen for your favorite cookbook or struggling to find a handy spot for your utensils? Well, I've got a simple solution for you.


In this step-by-step guide, I'm going to demonstrate how to create a practical and stylish side-of-cabinet storage solution by crafting a custom cookbook and utensil holder.


We'll use basic materials from your local hardware store to transform that unused side space into an organized and accessible storage area.


Let's get started with this simple woodworking project!


This post was transcribed by a member of the Hometalk editorial team from the original HometalkTV episode.

Inside-cabinet Potlid Organizer

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Add more storage with adhesive Command hooks that Amazon reviewers swear by!

Tools and Materials:

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Woodworking project for cabinets

1. Measure and Cut the Wood

Begin by measuring your cabinets. My DIY kitchen storage idea will be attached to the blank side of this cabinet.

Kitchen cabinet storage ideas

I needed to mark my boards at 31 inches.

Cut the wood

I Cut two boards at this size.

Easy kitchen storage project

For the top cuts, I measured and cut two boards at 20 inches and three quarters.


Sand the edges if needed.

Creative storage ideas for the kitchen

2. Assemble the Boards

Apply a small amount of wood glue to the ends of the boards, then join them together.

Easy-to-follow DIY kitchen storage solution

Secure the joints with brad nails, creating a strong bond.


Repeat this process for all four boards.

DIY woodworking for kitchen storage

Add a railing down the middle.

Learn how to make a chic cookbook and utensil holder

Next, measure 5.5 inches from the bottom of the DIY kitchen organizer. We will add an additional railing here.

Nail the railing to the frame

Secure it with a brad nail on either side.

A step-by-step guide to building a side of cabinet holder

3. Apply Pre-Stained Wood Conditioner

If using pine wood, apply a pre-stained wood conditioner to prevent blotchiness during staining. A little goes a long way. Allow it to dry for approximately 30 minutes.

Stain the wood in a color that matches your cabinets

4. Stain the Boards

Choose a stain color that matches your cabinets. Cover all sides of the boards, ensuring you get the oak and pine evenly. Let it dry completely.

Attach the utensil holder to the side of the cabinet

5. Attach the Holder to Cabinet

Secure the assembled boards to your cabinets using brad nails.

Stick a large Command hook to the cabinet

6. Use Command Strips for Additional Features

Apply command strips to the back of the command hooks and affix them to the holder.

DIY kitchen storage ideas

Hang oven mitts, utensils, or any other kitchen essentials for easy access.


More Kitchen Solutions

Read this DIY Kitchen Organization Hacks tutorial for additional storage ideas.

Use up the space on the side of a cabinet

Side of Cabinet Storage: Easy Woodworking project

Incorporating this custom cookbook and utensil holder into your kitchen has never been easier.


By maximizing the side of cabinet storage, you've not only organized your essentials but also added a touch of style.

Custom kitchen accessories holder

I hope you enjoyed this project as much as I did. Remember to share the results if you decide to give it a try!

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 2 comments
  • Alice Alice on Jan 24, 2024
    I don't have any exposed cabinet ends, well one but it is not practical for this, however, I always enjoy your posts and projects. Keep your great ideas coming!
  • Sva32892885 Sva32892885 on Jan 24, 2024
    My sister in law uses plate holders on side of cupboards for her cookbooks
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