DIY - World of Nintendo Display Cabinet | HOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN!
World of Nintendo cabinets are amazing pieces of nostalgia from the 1980's and 1990's. And owning one to display your collection can be a highlight of any game room. But what do you do if you can't find or afford a true and authentic, World of Nintendo cabinet?
I was battling with this question for months. How can I find one local, and if I find one, do I even have the means to purchase it? When all options were exhausted I did what any sane person would do, I decided to go all in and build my own.
And here it is, my replica World of Nintendo 60" wide display cabinet. A fun and exciting project. Taking a couple pieces of wood, adding some paint and a few signs, and creating something off of a few reference pictures.
Below is a detailed list of materials, and a 'step by step' on how you can build your own display cabinet. Also checkout / @collectorsluck , he has great videos on how to repair your original World of Nintendo cabinets, including a Google Doc with a materials list!
Step 1: Cut all your wood material down to size (CNC machined pieces are optimal and it's how I created the 'ribbed' affect, but its not mandatory), router corners to round them (optional) - You'll need 3 pieces total - https://www.lowes.com/pd/Sparrow-Peak...
Step 2: Sand, bondo, and sand again. This step is not mandatory, but creates a better finish after paint - https://www.walmart.com/ip/16-oz-3M-6...
Step 3: Cutout World of Nintendo upper sign. Your dimensions and size may vary from mine, but the company I ordered through can accommodate - https://www.ebay.com/itm/303184509393...
Step 4: Prime, paint, and paint again. Paint each wood piece your desired color. Primer and paint can be purchased from any hardware store, local or box. Nintendo color pallet is - https://www.color-hex.com/color-palet...
Step 5: Cut your pegboard down to size. Cut your plywood down to desired sizes for lid, bottom shelf, and backer pieces. Sand and paint pieces once cut to size. Any peg board and plywood is fine, but this is what I used - https://www.homedepot.com/p/Handprint...
Step 6: Assemble the cabinet: Layout where you want your upper and lower cross members to go. This may vary from my cabinet. Once layout is complete, pre drill and assemble. We use GRK screws in construction, they are extremely strong and high quality. This is just a personal preference but I'm sure you can use any fastener that's designed for strength - https://www.homedepot.com/pep/GRK-Fas...
Step 7: Attach your peg board, bottom shelf/lid backer trim, and bottom shelf/lid to your cabinet. Any fastener is fine, just make sure they're black and easily hidden.
Step 8: Cut and install edge trim for light louver to sit on. I used tile trim, it's metal and pre finished black. The exact one I used is discontinued (no joke I tried to return an extra piece and they didn't have it in their data base), but any tile trim or edge rail will work - https://www.homedepot.com/p/TrimMaste...
Step 9: Cut light louver down to size, or order custom size for perfect fit - https://www.homedepot.com/p/PLASKOLIT...
Step 10: Install whatever lighting you desire, brand and lumen output is all up to you. Layout and location is also your choice!
Step 11: Install vertical brackets and shelves - https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-...
Step 12: Attach your signs! You can glue, tape, or screw your sign onto your cabinet. The choice is up to you!
Step 13: Place foam onto your metal shelves, place your glass, and enjoy!
Happy Collecting!