Whether you are buying kitchen units, built-in cupboards or a desk for your computer, if you are buying it flat-packed you need skills to get the item together.

These packs provide the buyer with ready-cut panels, fittings and the instructions needed to assemble the item.

Eye-catching to most ‘handymen’ is the ease with which these pre-packed items can be transported, carried, assembled and dismantled if necessary.

The panels are usually made from sanded and varnished softwoods or man-made boards like chipboard or MDF (medium density fibreboard). Chipboard products are covered with a melamine facing to ensure that they are easy to keep clean. Metal or wrought-iron units are also available.

Before purchasing a do-it-yourself modular system, inspect the sample instore to ascertain that it is what you are looking for. Diagrams should accompany written instructions to make the assembly process easy and time-efficient.

Depending on the item you are going to assemble you will probably need a hammer, a set of screwdrivers (you may need the specialised Pozidriv tip) and adhesive.

If the furniture needs to be attached to a wall, you will need a drill with masonry drill bits. When installing a cupboard always use a spirit level.

Final assembly

  • Unpack all the components and check that everything is supplied. A list should be included in the instructions.
  • Mark each panel with a crayon or chalk and try assembling them without actually fitting the pieces together.
  • Check that the holes needed have been drilled in the correct place. If they are incorrect or missing, drill the correct hole using an electric drill and the appropriate size drill bit.