Fretwork on cabinetry can sometimes be confused with tracery. Fretwork is an interlaced decorative design, carved into a solid background or cut out. Unlike tracery, fretwork doesn't usually have glass inserts.Originally fretwork was in a grid and lattice design. These days we see many different designs, from patterns that copy the rectangular Greek fret to more intricately intertwined patterns. The cost depends on the design — using MDF and painting the unit yourself can lower the cost.Like tracery, fretwork is cut using a fretsaw, coping saw, jigsaw or scroll saw. Some larger cabinet companies use laser-cutting machines.