How to create a wooden dresser with sliding barn doors

Creating a wooden dresser with sliding barn doors can be a fun and rewarding project. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build it:

Materials Needed:

• 3/4″ plywood (for the body and drawer faces)
• 1×6 boards (for the sliding barn doors)
• 2x4s (for the frame)
• Drawer slides
• Barn door hardware kit (includes rails, rollers, and door brackets)
• Wood screws
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Paint or stain
• Wood finish (optional)

Tools Needed:

• Circular saw or table saw
• Drill and drill bits
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Clamps
• Wood filler
• Safety gear (gloves, goggles, etc.)

Step 1: Design and Planning

• Dimensions: Determine the dimensions of your dresser. A common height is around 30 to 36 inches, depth about 18 to 24 inches, and length depending on how many drawers you want.
• Barn Door Dimensions: For the barn doors, you’ll typically want them to cover about 2/3 of the width of the dresser.

Step 2: Cut the Wood

1. Dresser Frame: Cut the 2x4s for the main frame. You’ll need:
   • 2 vertical pieces for the sides (length = height of the dresser)
   • 2 horizontal pieces for the top and bottom (length = depth of the dresser)
   • 2 interior horizontal pieces for the drawer supports (length = the width of the dresser)
2. Drawer Boxes: Cut the plywood or MDF to form the drawer boxes. You’ll need:
   • 2 side pieces (length = depth of the dresser)
   • 1 front piece (length = width of the dresser)
   • 1 back piece (length = width of the dresser minus 1/4″)
   • 1 bottom piece (length = depth of the drawer)
3. Door Panels: Cut the 1×6 boards to the desired width of your barn doors, adding about 2 inches to each side for overlap.

Step 3: Assemble the Dresser Frame

1. Attach the side pieces of the 2x4s to the top and bottom pieces using wood screws to form the rectangular frame. Make sure it’s square.
2. Add the interior horizontal supports where you want the drawer slides to go, ensuring that they are level.

Step 4: Build and Install the Drawers

1. Assemble the drawer boxes by attaching the sides to the front, back, and bottom pieces using wood glue and screws.
2. Install drawer slides on both the drawer box and the frame. Make sure they’re level for smooth operation.

Step 5: Install the Barn Door Hardware

1. Install Rails: Attach the sliding barn door rail to the top of the dresser, ensuring it’s level and secure.
2. Attach Rollers to Doors: Install the barn door rollers on each door according to the hardware kit instructions. The rollers should be attached to the top of the doors.
3. Hang the Doors: Slide the doors onto the rail, ensuring they are aligned and move smoothly.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

1. Sanding: Sand all rough edges and surfaces to ensure a smooth finish.
2. Staining/Painting: Apply your preferred stain or paint to the dresser and barn doors.
3. Apply a Finish: Add a wood finish for protection and durability.
4. Install Handles: Attach barn door handles or pull hardware to each door.

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Dresser!

Once everything is dry and fully assembled, your sliding barn door dresser is ready for use!

This project combines rustic charm with functional storage, making it a great addition to any room. Happy building!