How to build a wooden nightstand with drawers

Building a wooden nightstand with drawers is a rewarding project that involves measuring, cutting, assembling, and finishing wood pieces. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to build a simple nightstand with drawers:

Materials Needed:

• Plywood or solid wood (oak, maple, pine, etc.) for the body and drawer components
• Drawer slides (2 sets)
• Wood screws
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Wood finish (stain or paint)
• Drawer pulls/handles
• Wood clamps
• Measuring tape and square
• Saw (table saw, circular saw, or miter saw)
• Drill and bits (for pilot holes and screws)
• Wood filler (optional)

Tools:

• Miter saw or table saw
• Drill and screwdriver
• Clamps
• Sanding block or power sander
• Wood finish brush or cloth
• Measuring tape
• Square

Step 1: Plan and Design Your Nightstand

Start by designing your nightstand, considering the dimensions for the overall piece and the drawers. A standard nightstand is typically around 24 inches tall, 18 inches wide, and 16 inches deep, but you can customize it to fit your needs.

1. Main components of the nightstand:
   • Top panel
   • Side panels
   • Bottom panel
   • Drawer fronts (two if you want a double drawer, or just one)
   • Back panel
   • Drawer boxes (depending on the number of drawers)
2. Drawer slides: Measure and determine the type of drawer slides you will use (side-mount or under-mount) and check their installation instructions.

Step 2: Cut the Pieces

1. Top, Bottom, and Sides: Using your saw, cut the following pieces from your plywood or solid wood:

   • One top piece: 18″ x 16″
   • Two side pieces: 24″ x 16″
   • One bottom piece: 18″ x 14″ (slightly smaller to fit inside the side panels)
   • One back panel: 18″ x 24″ (height of the side pieces)

2. Drawer Components:

   • Drawer front: 18″ x 5″ (adjust depending on how deep the drawer is)
   • Drawer sides (two per drawer): 14″ x 5″
   • Drawer bottom: 18″ x 14″ (adjust based on your drawer size)

Step 3: Assemble the Frame

1. Attach the side panels to the top: Apply wood glue to the edges of the side panels and align them with the edges of the top panel. Secure the sides using screws or dowels, drilling pilot holes first to avoid splitting the wood.

2. Attach the bottom panel: Apply glue to the edges of the bottom panel and slide it into place. Secure it with screws along the side edges.

3. Attach the back panel: Apply glue along the edges of the back panel and attach it to the sides and bottom of the nightstand.

Step 4: Build the Drawers

1. Assemble the drawer boxes:
   • Attach the drawer front to the sides using wood glue and screws. Make sure the front panel is centered.
   • Attach the drawer bottom to the sides using glue, and then secure with screws or nails. Make sure it sits properly within the side walls.
2. Install the drawer slides:
   • Attach the drawer slides to the sides of the drawer box, ensuring they are level.
   • Install the corresponding slide pieces to the inside of the nightstand frame, ensuring they are aligned and level.

Step 5: Install the Drawers

1. Insert the drawer into the frame: Slide the drawer onto the slides, making sure everything aligns properly.

2. Check the drawer operation: Ensure that the drawer opens and closes smoothly. Make any adjustments as needed for perfect alignment.

Step 6: Sand and Finish

1. Sand the entire nightstand: Use a sanding block or power sander to smooth out the surfaces of the nightstand and drawers. Start with a medium-grit sandpaper and finish with a fine-grit paper to achieve a smooth surface.

2. Apply the finish: You can stain, paint, or apply a clear finish like polyurethane or lacquer. Apply the finish in thin coats, sanding lightly between coats for a smooth, even finish.

Step 7: Add Hardware and Final Touches

1. Install drawer pulls: Once the finish is dry, install drawer pulls or handles on the drawer fronts. Drill pilot holes for the hardware and screw them in.

2. Final touch-ups: Fill any small holes or imperfections with wood filler, sand it smooth, and reapply finish if needed.

Conclusion

You now have a functional, custom-built nightstand with drawers! With the right materials and tools, you can create a sturdy piece that fits your personal style and home décor.

For additional woodworking projects like this one, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course for more detailed plans and step-by-step instructions! Ted’s Woodworking Course