Jerry, welcome to the site. You will find that this site is a valuable tool. May I tell you how I got started. I got a book with a pattern, not a paper pattern, measurement, that I used and followed and made a lingere cabinet for my daughter. It had dado's, rabbet cut, etc that I would learn how to make as well as dovetail drawers. I learned a lot, and made alot of mistakes especially on the drawers but I came away with knowledge of the basics of building a piece of furniture. When I decided to make my next piece, a nightstand, I went looking for a plan again. My teacher at the time told me to forget the plan because I now had the basics in my head. As you said, I designed it as I wanted it. Each piece brought new knowledge and mistakes but you learn by doing. That is how I learned and I am now making kitchen cabinets. Yes, they have their mistakes but I love them anyway. Good luck to you and know that the folk here will help you along the way, all you have to do is ask. Lorraine from Lake Gaston.
