This project was built and designed by Andy from Third Stall Woodworking. It’s a charming children’s vanity set featuring a functional drawer, a fixed center mirror with pivoting side mirrors, and a matching stool with elegant tapered legs.
The build strikes a balance between durability and style, making it a keepsake-quality piece that’s both beautiful and functional. Andy walks through every step with care, focusing on clean joinery, thoughtful design, and safety for daily use.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Andy’s channel:
Planning and Getting Started
The first stage in this project involves selecting durable hardwood and gathering common woodworking tools. Although exact measurements may vary, the overall design remains adaptable to fit different room sizes or preferences.
Andy starts by finalizing his design and layout. Templates are provided for the vanity top and stool seat, making it easy to transfer accurate curves and shapes onto the boards before cutting.
Building the Vanity and Stool Tops
The vanity and stool tops are assembled from multiple boards joined together with biscuits. This joinery method ensures a flat, stable surface while maintaining a clean appearance with minimal visible fasteners.
After glue-up, the tops are shaped using a router and flush-trim bit guided by the printed templates. This results in smooth, symmetrical curves and a professional-looking finish with well-aligned contours.
Constructing the Stool Base
The stool is built with sturdy rails and tapered legs for a balanced, lightweight look. Andy cuts the legs to length and tapers them on the bandsaw, then smooths out the surfaces to give them a refined touch.
Pocket holes are used to join the legs and rails together, reinforced with tabletop fasteners for added strength and future flexibility. The result is a compact but durable seat designed to hold up under regular use.
Assembling the Vanity Frame
The main vanity frame is built using solid joinery to ensure a long-lasting structure. Andy incorporates drawer slides into the frame, allowing for smooth operation of the single working drawer.
Careful spacing is critical here. Andy uses temporary spacers to ensure the drawer fits at the right height, glides properly, and avoids contact with the tabletop.
Crafting the Mirror Frames
The standout feature of this vanity is the three-mirror layout: one fixed mirror in the center and two pivoting mirrors on either side. Each mirror is framed using dowel-reinforced corners for strength and stability.
Rabbets are routed into the back of the frames to securely hold the mirror glass. The side mirrors are installed with piano hinges, allowing for adjustable angles and giving the vanity a classic, elegant feel.
Sanding and Finishing the Pieces
Before painting or staining, each piece is sanded thoroughly to remove rough edges and prepare for finish. Andy tapes off areas that need to remain unpainted, helping maintain crisp, clean lines.
The painted base contrasts nicely with the stained vanity and stool tops, allowing the natural grain to stand out. A protective polyurethane topcoat is applied to help resist wear, spills, and everyday use.
Andy recommends working in a well-ventilated area when applying finishes and using a fan to help direct overspray. Taking the time to prep carefully leads to a much smoother final result.
Final Assembly
The final stage of the build is all about sequencing. Andy installs the tabletop before adding the drawer and other components to ensure everything lines up and is easily accessible for fastening.
Once assembled, the entire piece is wiped down and polished. The mirrors are cleaned, the drawer is tested, and the stool is tucked neatly underneath—completing a beautiful set that’s ready to use.
A Special Project with Lasting Impact
This project offers more than just a practical furniture piece—it’s something kids will enjoy daily and remember fondly for years. The combination of pivoting mirrors, solid construction, and thoughtful design gives it both charm and function.
Andy’s tutorial covers every aspect of the build with clarity and precision. From cutting curves to joining legs and framing mirrors, this vanity is an excellent woodworking challenge with a highly rewarding outcome.
Get Andy’s plans here: https://www.thirdstallwoodworking.com/shop/p/vanity.