This project was built and designed by John from John Builds It. It’s a well-crafted furniture piece that starts as a changing table and later serves as a functional dresser.
This approach gives the project long-term value, making it ideal for anyone setting up a nursery with future use in mind. It’s a great example of combining durability with thoughtful design.
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Starting with Solid Materials
John begins with rough sawn poplar sourced from a local hardwood supplier. After allowing the wood to dry properly, boards are marked and cut to rough size in preparation for milling.
The build focuses on clean joinery and precise milling, which ensures long-term strength. Choosing quality hardwood adds to the overall longevity of the piece.
Constructing the Legs and Frame
To create the forelegs, three boards are laminated together to achieve the right thickness. A jointer and planer are used to flatten and square the boards before glue-up.
Once dry, the legs are trimmed to final size and squared on all sides. Milling each leg to match is key for stability and symmetry.
While the legs set, additional parts are milled and brought to final dimension. If needed, pre-milled lumber can be substituted to simplify the process.
Laying Out the Joinery
With parts sized and laid out, the joinery process begins. Tongues are cut on the ends of the top and bottom rails, and grooves are routed into the rails and legs.
This joinery forms the framework of the dresser sides. Precision here ensures a tight, flush fit when everything is assembled.
Adding Panels and Structure
MDF panels are cut and rabbets are added to fit them into the frame grooves. A primer coat is applied to the MDF to ensure the paint adheres evenly later.
Grooves are also routed into the legs to accept the plywood back panel. These thoughtful details make the final assembly clean and consistent.
Connecting the Frame
With the sides complete, long stretchers connect them into one solid frame. Pocket holes are used for the drawer dividers, and spacers ensure everything stays aligned.
The top is glued together using biscuits to help maintain flush joints. Once cured, it’s sanded smooth and prepped for installation.
Assembling Drawers and Details
The drawer boxes are made from plywood and fitted with bottom grooves. Drawer slides are installed using spacers and fillers to maintain consistent gaps.
For a finished look, false drawer fronts are mounted using a card trick to create perfect spacing. Each front is then attached with care and adjusted before final fastening.
Finishing the Piece
The base receives several coats of milk paint after being primed and sanded smooth. The top is treated with wood conditioner followed by a water-based stain.
A clear protective finish seals everything in, highlighting the wood grain while providing durability. Tabletop fasteners are installed to allow for seasonal wood movement.
Adding the Changing Pad Frame
To make the piece function as a changing table, John assembles a simple frame to hold the pad. Miter joints are held together with tape during glue-up to maintain alignment.
This addition allows the piece to work as a changing station without compromising the look of the dresser. Once no longer needed, the frame can be removed with no damage to the surface.
Why This Project Stands Out
This piece is both practical and adaptable, starting as a nursery essential and growing into a long-lasting piece of furniture. It showcases the kind of care and planning that makes woodworking so rewarding.
If you’re looking for project inspiration that blends form and function, John’s design is worth exploring. The attention to detail and clean lines give the final result a timeless feel.
Want to Watch the Full Process?
Please support John by viewing all his plans here: https://www.johnbuildsit.com/plans.