This project was built and designed by the team at Kreg Tool. It features a stylish nightstand with a built-in drawer and a clever slide-out tray, combining form and function in a compact design.
If you’re looking for a project to sharpen your skills and upgrade your bedroom, this one is a great option. It can be adapted to suit a range of design styles and paint colors.
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Getting Started with the Nightstand Build
The project begins with cutting plywood panels, which form the structure of the nightstand. Kreg Tool recommends using a foam insulation board as a base for cleaner cuts and better support.
With a track saw, you can make long, accurate cuts that help everything fit together properly later on. Clean, square cuts are essential to make the structure come together easily.
Assembling the Nightstand Frame
After the panels are cut, the basic shell is assembled using pocket hole joinery. The nightstand includes a hidden slide-out tray that tucks neatly into one side when not in use.
This tray can be made from plywood or any leftover pre-finished panel for smoother operation. The design keeps things compact without sacrificing utility.
Constructing the Top Panel
The nightstand’s top is built from plywood and reinforced with 1×2 boards along the edge. These boards are arranged in a U-shape, which not only strengthens the top but also forms a pocket for the slide-out tray.
This feature gives the nightstand a thicker, finished appearance. It also supports the mechanical function of the sliding shelf.
Building and Squaring the Drawer
The drawer box is constructed from 1×4 boards and has a quarter-inch plywood bottom. The thin plywood also helps keep the box square during assembly, which can be a challenge with small parts.
Clamps and staples are used to hold everything in place once it’s aligned. This step is crucial for smooth drawer operation later on.
Adding Finishes and Decorative Details
To enhance the appearance, a clear coat of shellac is applied to the drawer interior. This protects the wood and adds a light contrast to the navy blue painted exterior.
Pocket holes are used throughout the build, made easier with the Kreg 720 Pro jig. Its built-in dust collection and adjustable clamp make repeated cuts faster and cleaner.
Installing the Drawer Slides
Once painted and finished, the drawer is installed using 16-inch slides. These are mounted inside the nightstand at a specific height to ensure smooth movement.
Proper alignment of the slides is important for long-term durability and ease of use. Take your time with this step to get it just right.
Features That Set It Apart
This nightstand stands out thanks to thoughtful design details like a fluted drawer front and elegant feet. These elements elevate the project from basic storage to stylish furniture.
A flush-mounted power strip in the back adds modern convenience for charging phones or powering bedside devices. This small addition makes the nightstand even more functional.
Final Thoughts
The completed nightstand is compact, practical, and full of charm. It fits seamlessly into most bedroom setups while offering useful storage and surface space.
Whether you’re building it for yourself or as a gift, this project is both rewarding and useful. It’s a great example of how simple materials can create something special.
Matt’s Take
These are my personal thoughts and tips based on my own experience in the shop. This section is not written, reviewed, or endorsed by the original creator of this project.
This is a really well-thought-out design that showcases how much functionality you can pack into a compact piece. The slide-out tray is particularly clever — it’s one of those features that seems simple but makes a huge difference in daily use. Having that extra surface appear when you need it, then disappear when you don’t, is exactly the kind of smart design that separates good furniture from great furniture.
The pocket hole joinery throughout this build is spot-on for a project like this. It’s strong, hidden, and perfect for plywood construction. If you’re newer to pocket holes, this nightstand is actually an ideal project to practice on — you get repetition without it being overwhelming, and any small learning curve mistakes won’t show on the finished piece.
That built-in power strip is a game-changer for modern bedrooms. We’re all charging multiple devices these days, and having dedicated power right where you need it beats running extension cords or hunting for wall outlets. Just make sure to plan your cord management early — a simple groove routed in the back or a small hole can keep everything looking clean.
The fluted drawer front really elevates the whole piece. It’s amazing how adding texture to just one element can transform a simple box into something that looks like it came from a high-end furniture store. Details like this are what make woodworking projects feel truly custom.