This custom kitchen drawer organizer was designed and built by Steve Ramsey – Woodworking for Mere Mortals, and it’s a fantastic project for anyone looking to add some order to their kitchen drawers.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Scrap lumber (various sizes)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws (optional)
- Table saw
- Dado blades
- Jigsaw
- Drill
- Sandpaper or sander
- Clamps
- Framing square
- Push sticks
Step 1: Gather Materials and Plan Your Design
Start by gathering all your materials. Use leftover boards from previous projects to minimize costs. Measure the utensils you want to store and layout their arrangement on a table to determine the dimensions of your organizer.
Step 2: Cut the Boards
Begin by ripping the boards down to the desired height of the dividers—2 inches is a good height. Joint one edge of each board to ensure they are straight, then set your table saw to rip the boards to the correct width.
Step 3: Create the Frame and Dividers
Cut the frame pieces to size, making them slightly thicker (3/8 inch) than the dividers (1/4 inch). Use a miter gauge with a stop block for accurate cuts. Remember to keep the ends of the frame pieces square.
Step 4: Make Dados and Rabbets
To join the pieces together, cut dados in the frame and rabbits on the ends. This will make assembly easier and keep everything square. Ensure you test your cuts for a proper fit before proceeding.
Step 5: Assemble the Organizer
Once all pieces are cut, start assembling the organizer by gluing the frame and inserting the dividers into the dados. Use clamps to hold everything in place while the glue dries. A framing square can help keep everything aligned.
Step 6: Add the Bottom
To provide additional support, cut a piece of thin plywood for the bottom of the organizer. Attach it to the frame to prevent racking and add strength.
Step 7: Cut Finger Grooves
For easy access to your utensils, cut finger grooves into the dividers. Use a jigsaw or multi-tool for this task, ensuring you sand down any rough edges for safety.
Step 8: Final Assembly and Finishing Touches
After all pieces are assembled and the glue is dry, sand all edges and surfaces to remove any sharp spots. Test the fit in your drawer, make any necessary adjustments, and your custom organizer is ready to use!
Remember, building a custom kitchen drawer organizer not only helps you stay organized but also gives you a sense of accomplishment.