How to build a wooden dresser with soft-close drawers

Building a wooden dresser with soft-close drawers requires both woodworking skills and an understanding of the hardware components needed to ensure smooth operation. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you build your own dresser with soft-close drawers.

Materials and Tools Needed:

Materials:

• Plywood or solid wood boards (for the sides, front, back, and top of the dresser)
• Drawer slides (soft-close type)
• Wood glue
• Screws
• Wood filler
• Sandpaper
• Stain or paint (if desired)
• Drawer fronts (solid wood or plywood)
• Drawer box material (1/2″ or 3/4″ plywood)

Tools:

• Table saw or circular saw
• Drill and drill bits
• Screwdriver
• Clamps
• Woodworking clamps
• Tape measure
• Square
• Router (optional, for edges)
• Sander or sanding block
• Level
• Measuring tape

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Plan Your Design

Before starting, determine the dimensions of your dresser. A standard dresser usually ranges from 30 to 36 inches in height, with widths from 30 to 60 inches depending on your space. Decide the number of drawers you want and how many rows. A typical dresser could have five to six drawers in total.

Step 2: Cut Your Wood Pieces

1. Side Panels: Cut two pieces for the sides of the dresser from plywood or solid wood. These pieces should be the desired height of the dresser.
2. Top and Bottom Panels: Cut the top and bottom panels, ensuring that they are the same length as the dresser’s width.
3. Back Panel: Cut the back panel to the exact width and height of the dresser.
4. Drawer Sides: For each drawer, cut two side panels, a front panel, and a back panel from plywood. The sides should be slightly shorter than the depth of the dresser to accommodate the drawer slides.
5. Drawer Bottom: Cut a panel for the bottom of each drawer. The bottom should be slightly smaller than the side panels to fit within the drawer sides.

Step 3: Assemble the Dresser Frame

1. Attach the Side Panels: Use wood glue and screws to attach the side panels to the top and bottom panels. Make sure the assembly is square by checking the corners with a square tool.
2. Install the Back Panel: Attach the back panel using screws or nails. Ensure it is flush with the edges of the side panels, top, and bottom.
3. Add the Drawer Guides: Mark and install the drawer slide hardware on the inside of the side panels of the dresser. You’ll need to install both the part of the slide that attaches to the dresser and the part that attaches to the drawer.

Step 4: Build the Drawers

1. Assemble the Drawer Boxes: Start by attaching the side panels of the drawers to the front and back panels with wood glue and screws. Use clamps to hold the pieces together while the glue dries.
2. Install the Drawer Bottom: Once the box is assembled, insert the drawer bottom and attach it with wood glue and small nails or screws.
3. Attach Drawer Fronts: The drawer fronts should be attached last. These can be screwed onto the drawer boxes, ensuring they are aligned evenly with the sides of the dresser. Make sure there is an even gap between the drawer fronts.
4. Install the Soft-Close Mechanism: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the soft-close drawer slides. These slides are usually installed on the sides of the drawer boxes, with the soft-close mechanism attaching to the inside of the dresser frame.

Step 5: Install the Drawers

Once the soft-close slides are attached, carefully slide the drawer boxes into place. The soft-close mechanism should be positioned correctly to ensure the drawers close smoothly and gently. Test each drawer to ensure it closes quietly and securely.

Step 6: Sand and Finish

1. Sand the Dresser: Sand the entire dresser frame and drawer boxes to smooth out any rough edges or uneven spots. Start with a coarse grit and gradually move to a finer grit.
2. Stain or Paint: After sanding, apply your desired finish. Staining will bring out the natural beauty of the wood, while paint can offer a more modern look. Apply multiple coats if needed, and allow the finish to dry completely between coats.

Step 7: Final Assembly

Once the finish has dried, attach the drawer handles or knobs. These should be placed in the center of the drawer fronts or wherever suits the design. Ensure they are securely fastened.

Step 8: Install the Dresser in Place

Carefully move your finished dresser into place. Make sure the dresser is level by adjusting the feet or using shims if necessary. Check the functionality of all the drawers and the soft-close mechanism.

Additional Tips:

• Precision is key: Measuring and cutting accurately will ensure that the dresser frame and drawers fit together correctly, especially when installing soft-close hardware.
• Quality Soft-Close Slides: Choose high-quality soft-close slides to ensure smooth and long-lasting operation. Some brands offer easy installation kits with the slides included.
• Drawer Front Adjustments: Soft-close drawer slides usually come with an adjustment screw that allows you to fine-tune the alignment of the drawer fronts.

Conclusion:

Building a wooden dresser with soft-close drawers is an excellent woodworking project that combines functionality and craftsmanship. By following these detailed steps and using high-quality materials and hardware, you’ll end up with a beautifully finished dresser that not only looks great but also operates smoothly. Be sure to take your time with the assembly and finishing for the best results.

If you’re looking to improve your woodworking skills and learn more techniques for creating custom furniture, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.