Building a wall-mounted nightstand with a drawer can be a rewarding woodworking project that adds both functionality and style to your room. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own:
Materials Needed:
- 1/2″ plywood or hardwood for the frame
- 1/4″ plywood for the drawer bottom
- Hardwood for the drawer sides, front, and back (such as oak, maple, or walnut)
- Drawer slides (optional, depending on the design)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Drawer pulls or handles
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Wood finish or paint (optional)
- Wall brackets or mounting hardware
Tools Required:
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Circular saw or table saw
- Jigsaw (for cutting the drawer)
- Drill with various bits
- Clamps
- Woodworking square
- Sanding block or electric sander
- Screwdriver or drill driver
- Wood glue
- Drawer slides (if using)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Plan and Measure the Nightstand
- Decide on the size of your nightstand. A typical nightstand might be around 20″ wide, 10″ deep, and 15″ tall. Adjust these measurements based on your space and design preferences.
- Sketch your design. Include details for the drawer and the mounting brackets.
2. Cut the Wood for the Frame
- Using your saw, cut the plywood or hardwood into the following pieces:
- Top: The surface of the nightstand, about 20″ wide by 10″ deep (adjust as necessary).
- Sides: Two pieces for the side panels, approximately 15″ tall by 10″ deep.
- Bottom: A piece for the base of the nightstand, slightly smaller than the top, about 18″ by 8″ (allowing a small gap for the sides).
3. Build the Frame
- Begin by assembling the sides and bottom using wood glue and screws. Attach the side pieces to the bottom piece with screws, ensuring the edges are flush.
- Attach the top piece to the sides. Use screws and wood glue for a sturdy hold, but leave the front edge flush, so the drawer will fit neatly underneath.
4. Make the Drawer Box
- Cut the Drawer Sides: Cut four pieces for the drawer: two for the sides (about 4″ tall and 9″ deep) and one for the back (about 18″ wide and 4″ tall).
- Cut the Drawer Front: This piece should match the width of the nightstand frame (about 18″) and the height you want the drawer to be (around 5″ to 6″).
- Cut the Drawer Bottom: This should be 1/4″ plywood cut to the dimensions of the drawer’s interior. It will rest inside the sides and back.
Assemble the Drawer Box:
- Attach the sides, back, and front together using wood glue and screws. Make sure the corners are square.
- Secure the drawer bottom to the base using wood glue. Clamp it while the glue dries.
5. Install the Drawer Slides (Optional)
- If you’re using drawer slides, attach them to the sides of the drawer and the inside of the nightstand frame. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper alignment.
6. Mount the Nightstand
- Use wall brackets or mounting hardware to attach the nightstand to the wall. Depending on your design, you might have a floating nightstand or one that attaches directly to studs for a more secure hold.
- Mark the wall where you want the nightstand to sit, ensuring it’s level. Attach the brackets to the back of the nightstand and secure them to the wall.
7. Finish the Wood
- Sand all surfaces of the nightstand and drawer, starting with coarse sandpaper and working up to a fine grit for a smooth finish.
- Apply your preferred finish or paint. A wood finish will highlight the natural grain, while paint can add a more modern look.
- Let the finish dry completely before attaching the drawer pull or handle.
8. Add the Drawer Pull or Handle
- Mark and drill holes for the handle or drawer pull. Install it securely to finish the drawer.
9. Final Touches
- Double-check that the drawer slides open and close smoothly. Make any adjustments if necessary.
- Ensure that the nightstand is securely mounted on the wall.
Conclusion
This wall-mounted nightstand with a drawer is a versatile, functional piece of furniture that can save space while providing a convenient storage solution. With patience and attention to detail, you’ll have a beautiful custom piece that enhances your room’s décor.
If you’re interested in more woodworking projects like this one, consider checking out Teds Woodworking Course for detailed plans and step-by-step instructions. Here’s the link to get started: Teds Woodworking Course.
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