This is probably the most involved piece in the project (yes, even more than the doors). If you refer back to the first part in this blog you will see the base design is heavily influenced by the radio in the second reference image. 

 

First, the base is cut to its overall size.

I’m going to need a template for a document slot. This takes a little creative clamping.

And we have a template.

I set the router table up with a guide bearing bit and used some double stick tape to hold the template in place.

And we have a pocket roughed out.

All that is left is to square up the corners.

The rest of the base work involves several settings on the router table. Last time I tried to count I came up with over 40 different positions of bit depth and fence stops.

I added a sacrificial layer to the base and prepared a couple setup blocks.

Here are some views of the cutting sequence.

I did my best to get each of these cuts positioned to better than 0.005 inches. The details are mirrored on the other side. 

 I then repeated the entire process with my 1/16" bit (with no bearing). This time I cleaned the bit first.

And here is the result. You can see a little bit of tear out but after this much effort invested in the part I'll do my best to work with it.

Next is to add a finger relief to the document slot in the back. I used a chamfer bit and fence stops.

And I then repeated the process on the lower back of the box.

I put together a description of the history of the tea bag holders and the wood used in this cabinet. My wife then created a little booklet and envelope for it.

It's a perfect fit in the pocket!

The finger relief provides just enough access.

The final step for the base is to provide for screws to fasten it to the box.

A total of 4 screws are used.

That takes care of the construction of the box and the base. Next up is the inserts for the doors - all 14 of them.