DIY Network

I’m trying to convert an armoire into a china hutch by removing the wood panels on the two front doors which will eventually be replaced with glass. I’m stuck trying to figure out how to remove the wood panels. I’ve tried a razor blade/retractable knife which didn’t work because the panels were too thick/strong. I then tried a saw that was about 12” long with a wooden handle (sorry, I’m not sure what it is called) as well as a coping saw-type. Both of these caused too much movement back and forth and I ended up damaging the frame outside of the panels (the wood closest to the hinges started to crack). I need something that won’t require a back and forth motion that causes strain on the door frames. Do I need some sort of electric saw? What would work best to remove these?

I’m not sure if this makes sense, but if you can envision what I’m talking about, I would appreciate any advice anyone has to share!

Thanks!

Do you own a router? I have seen that used on a few of the shows.
Monica

It sound to me that you have not removed the doors from the cabinet. If that is true then you should remove the doors to work on them. and like mosternaz said - use a router.

As George said if you have not taken the doors off do it. It also sounds as though youy are cutting to close to the stiles and rails. Most panel doors the panel is not glued into the stiles and rails. You can cut the panel away from the stiles and rails and then remove the edge of the panel with a little work and a lot of pietence. Do not get into a hurry. You are eventually going to need a router to create a rabbit for the glass to sit in. If you have a Woodcraft, or Rockler, store in your area give them a call and see if they could recommed someone you could talk to locally. This is not a hard job to do but if you have not done this type of work before it can be confusing. Make friends with a good woodworker in your area. They can teach you a lot.

Don

Thank you all for your suggestions. No, I haven't removed the doors, but now that you say it, I should have done that a long time ago! I will give it a try. Thank you again!