How to build a wooden dresser with soft-close drawers

Building a wooden dresser with soft-close drawers is a rewarding project that combines craftsmanship with functionality. This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of constructing the dresser, ensuring that the drawers glide smoothly with a soft-close feature.

Materials and Tools Needed

Materials:

• Wood for the dresser frame and drawers (e.g., plywood, hardwood for front faces)
• Soft-close drawer slides (available at hardware stores or online)
• Wood glue
• Screws
• Wood finish or paint
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Drawer pulls (optional)
• Wood dowels or screws for joining pieces
• Wood filler (optional)

Tools:

• Measuring tape
• Circular saw or table saw
• Drill and drill bits
• Screwdriver or impact driver
• Clamps
• Miter saw (for precision cuts)
• Jigsaw (optional, for curved designs)
• Router (for smooth edges or creating joints)
• Level
• Square

Step 1: Design and Measurements

Before starting, plan the size of your dresser. Typically, a dresser will have a rectangular base with a set of drawers stacked in rows. The width of the dresser depends on the number of drawers and the space available in your room. For example:

• A 5-drawer dresser might be around 30-40 inches wide and 30-40 inches tall, with each drawer being about 6-8 inches high.
• The depth is generally between 16-18 inches.

Sketch your design on paper or using a computer program to visualize the proportions. Make sure to include the measurements for each component: the sides, top, bottom, and drawer pieces.

Step 2: Cutting the Pieces

Using your saw, cut the following pieces for the dresser:

• Side panels: Two pieces for the sides of the dresser (usually 30-40 inches tall and the depth of the dresser).
• Top and bottom panels: Two pieces, one for the top and one for the bottom (same width as the side panels).
• Back panel: A single piece that spans the width and height of the dresser (optional depending on design).
• Drawer fronts, sides, backs, and bottoms: These will vary based on your drawer design and dimensions. Typically, cut two sides, a back, and a bottom for each drawer.
• Drawer front: The front panel of each drawer, which is usually the most decorative part.

Ensure all cuts are straight and precise. Sand the edges to remove any splinters or rough spots.

Step 3: Assemble the Dresser Frame

1. Attach the side panels to the top and bottom panels: Use wood glue and screws to secure the side panels to the top and bottom. Ensure everything is square using a carpenter’s square.
2. Install the back panel: If you’re using a back panel, attach it with screws or nails along the edges. The back panel provides additional stability and helps square up the frame.

Step 4: Install Drawer Slides

Drawer slides are what will give the drawers their soft-close function. Soft-close slides require precise installation, as they have mechanisms that slow down the drawer before it fully closes.

1. Measure and mark the placement for the slides: You need to install the slides on both the sides of the dresser and the sides of the drawers. The slides typically go about 1 inch from the front and rear of the drawer.
2. Attach the slide rails to the dresser: Using screws, attach one part of the soft-close slide to the inside of the dresser frame. Make sure the slides are level and aligned.
3. Attach the matching part of the slide to the drawer: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attaching the other part of the slide to the sides of the drawer. Generally, it involves screwing them into place.

Step 5: Assemble the Drawers

1. Construct the drawer boxes: Start by gluing and screwing the sides of the drawer together. You can either use butt joints or, for a stronger connection, use dovetail or box joints.
2. Install the drawer bottom: Attach the bottom panel to the drawer box using wood glue and brads or screws.
3. Attach the drawer front: Once the box is assembled, attach the drawer front to the drawer using screws or wood glue. If you’re installing a pull handle, drill holes in the front of the drawer.

Step 6: Install the Drawers

Once the slides are installed on both the dresser and the drawers, you can begin to insert the drawers. This can be tricky, so take your time:

1. Align the slides carefully: Slowly slide the drawers into place, ensuring that the slides on both sides are properly aligned and engaging correctly.
2. Test the soft-close function: Gently close the drawers to check that the soft-close mechanism is working. The drawer should glide shut and then softly close without slamming.

Step 7: Sand and Finish

1. Sand all surfaces: Sand the entire dresser frame and drawers to remove any rough patches and to ensure a smooth surface for finishing. Start with a medium grit and finish with a fine grit.
2. Apply your finish: Choose a wood finish that suits your design, whether it’s a natural stain or a painted finish. Apply multiple coats if necessary, and allow each coat to dry fully between applications.

Step 8: Final Touches

• Install any drawer pulls or knobs on the fronts of the drawers.
• Make any final adjustments to the soft-close mechanisms, ensuring the drawers operate smoothly.

Conclusion

With the steps above, you can create a sturdy, functional dresser with smooth, soft-closing drawers. The soft-close mechanism adds a premium feel to your furniture and helps prevent damage from slamming.

For additional woodworking projects and guidance, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course for more detailed plans and instructions: Ted’s Woodworking Course.