This project was built and designed by Josh Wright. It’s a clean, modern nightstand made entirely from one 2×6 board—simple, affordable, and a great way to sharpen basic woodworking skills.
With only around $5 in materials, this end table proves that good design doesn’t require a big budget. It’s functional, stylish, and approachable, making it an ideal project for both new and experienced woodworkers.
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A Thoughtful and Simple Design
Josh’s goal was to create a piece that’s easy to build but still feels intentional. The design includes a sturdy frame, a smooth tabletop surface, and a small drawer for added utility.
The overall look leans minimal and modern, with clean lines and exposed joinery that highlight the simplicity of the material. It’s the kind of piece that fits into any bedroom, workshop, or small living space.
Cutting and Preparing the 2×6
Everything starts with a single 2×6 board. Josh begins by crosscutting the board into sections for the legs, frame, top, and drawer parts.
Next, each section is ripped to consistent widths using a table saw. This ensures all frame pieces are uniform, which is key for strong joinery and a balanced final piece.
Building the Frame with Bridle Joints
The frame is assembled using bridle joints, a straightforward but strong technique that adds visual appeal and structural integrity. These joints require clean, accurate cuts, but the result is a tight, long-lasting connection.
Josh takes the time to dry-fit each joint before gluing, which helps identify any issues and ensures a square assembly. It’s a good reminder that a little patience at this stage saves time down the line.
Creating the Tabletop
The top of the nightstand is made from two ripped sections of the original board. These pieces are glued edge-to-edge to create a single flat surface.
Clamps are used to keep the top flush while the glue sets. After drying, the surface is sanded smooth, leaving a simple but durable surface for books, lamps, or everyday items.
Building and Installing the Drawer
The drawer is crafted from the remaining material, cut into four parts to form the front, back, and sides. Josh uses rabbet joints to join the corners, which offer strength without complexity.
For drawer slides, leftover paneling is cut into guides and attached to the inside of the frame. These simple runners allow the drawer to open and close easily without needing metal hardware.
Adding the Back Panel
To complete the frame, a thin back panel is added using quarter-inch material—either plywood or paneling left over from another project. This panel closes the back of the drawer cavity and adds rigidity to the structure.
It also helps keep the drawer aligned and prevents items from falling out the rear. The fit is clean and straightforward, contributing to the overall durability of the piece.
Sanding and Finishing
Once fully assembled, the nightstand is sanded on all surfaces to remove sharp edges and prep for finishing. Josh uses fine-grit sandpaper to bring out the grain and smooth the joinery.
The final finish is left up to the builder’s preference. Whether stained, painted, or left natural, the piece looks great with minimal effort. It’s a great reminder that budget-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring.
An Easy and Rewarding Build
This project is a great introduction to woodworking fundamentals—accurate cuts, strong joinery, and clean assembly. It shows what can be done with just one board and a little creativity.
Josh’s build is practical, efficient, and stylish, offering a great return on minimal material. It’s an ideal weekend project that adds both skill and function to your workshop output.
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