This beautiful mid-century nightstand with 3D hexagon pattern drawers was created by DIY Montreal, and it’s perfect for adding a modern touch to any bedroom. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own nightstand.
Materials and Tools
- Four 6/4 x 8′ Ash boards
- 1/8″ plywood for the back panel
- Wood glue
- India ink for finishing
- Clear coat finish
- Wood screws
- Brad nails
- Wood for drawer slides (maple recommended)
- Clamps (parallel clamps recommended)
- Table saw
- Joiner
- Planer
- Router
- Dowel jig
- Hexagon cutting jig
- Track saw
- Nail gun
- Sander
Step 1: Milling the Lumber
Start by milling your rough sawn ash wood. Use a jointer to flatten one side, then run it through the planer to make both sides parallel. Resaw the boards to slightly over ¾” thickness for the carcass, saving the leftover pieces for the drawers later on.
Step 2: Glue-Up for the Carcass Panels
For the carcass, glue up the panels by applying a generous amount of glue and using clamps to hold them together. Be sure to alternate the grain rings to prevent cupping.
Step 3: Cutting the Panels to Size
Once the glue has dried, square up the edges of the panels and cut them to size. Create a small groove at the back of the panels for the back panel to fit into.
Step 4: Assembling the Carcass
Mark the panels for biscuit slots, using a biscuit joiner to cut the slots for assembly. This adds strength to the joints. After applying glue and using clamps for assembly, let it dry, then sand the joints smooth.
Step 5: Applying the Finish
Apply India ink for a deep black finish that highlights the wood grain. Once dry, apply a clear coat finish for protection.
Step 6: Building the Base
Create a prototype for the base using scrap wood, then cut the legs from ash. Assemble the base using dowels and secure it to the carcass using Z-clips for wood movement.
Step 7: Creating the Hexagon Drawer Fronts
Use the leftover ash pieces to create hexagon drawer fronts. Cut hexagons using a hexagon cutting jig, then arrange them into a pattern on a backer board.
Step 8: Assembling the Drawers
Construct the drawers using plywood, applying a dado for the slides. Assemble the drawer boxes with pocket screws and add the bottom panel.
Step 9: Installing Drawer Slides and Fronts
Cut and install wooden slides for the drawers. Position the drawer fronts using playing cards for spacing and secure them in place with screws.
Step 10: Final Touches
Finish up by applying a clear coat to the drawer fronts. Now you have a stylish mid-century nightstand with unique hexagon pattern drawers!
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