This large six-drawer dresser was designed and built by Houseful of Handmade, and it is perfect for anyone looking to organize their space without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create your own beautiful dresser that can hold all your essentials.
Tools:
- Circular Saw
- Miter Saw
- Drill/Impact Driver
- Pocket Hole Jig
- Brad Nailer
- Table Saw
- Face Clamps
- Speed Square
Materials:
- (2) 4’x8′ sheets of ¾″ plywood
- (1) 4’x8′ sheet of ¼″ plywood (for drawer bottoms)
- (4) 2×2 boards (for legs and frame)
- (1) 1×2 boards (for trim)
- (6) pairs of 16″ drawer slides
- Wood Glue
- 1-inch and 2-inch screws
- Edge Banding (optional)
- Drawer Pulls
Step 1: Cut the Plywood Pieces
To start, cut the plywood pieces according to the plans. Use a circular saw with a rip cut guide to break down the plywood sheets. For support, place the plywood on a piece of rigid foam during cutting.
Step 2: Assemble the Side Panels
Next, cut the 1×2 and 2×2 boards to length using the miter saw. Add pocket holes to the edges of the 1×2 trim pieces. Assemble the sides by attaching the trim to the top and bottom of the side panels using pocket hole screws and wood glue.
Step 3: Build the Front Frame
Construct the front frame using 1×2 boards. Ensure that the pocket holes for the front dividers are offset to create a strong joint. Attach the middle dividers to the center board using a face frame clamp for ease.
Step 4: Attach the Side Panels to the Front Frame
Attach the front frame to the side panels using the pre-drilled pocket holes. Make sure the front frame is set back ¼ inch from the front for proper alignment.
Step 5: Add Back Support
Add 2×2 supports at the top and bottom of the frame section for additional stability. A matching 1×2 trim can also be added for decorative purposes.
Step 6: Install the Center Support
Finish the dresser frame by adding a center support and a plywood panel for the drawer slides.
Step 7: Build the Drawer Boxes
For the drawers, cut pieces from a 4×8 sheet of plywood. Create grooves in the drawer pieces using a table saw. Assemble the boxes using wood glue and pneumatic staples.
Step 8: Install the Drawer Boxes
Install the drawer boxes set back ¾ inch from the front of the frame using the 16-inch long drawer slides.
Step 9: Attach the Drawer Fronts
Add edge banding to the drawer front pieces and temporarily attach the fronts with brad nails. Then secure them permanently using screws from the inside of the drawer boxes.
Step 10: Secure the Top
Finally, lay the top on your workbench and flip the dresser frame upside down on top of it. Secure the top using screws from the underside.
Step 11: Finishing Touches
Once everything is assembled, you can finish your dresser with your choice of stain or sealant to highlight the natural beauty of the wood.
And there you have it! A beautiful, spacious six-drawer dresser built with your own hands.
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