This project was built and designed by Mark from Gunflint Designs. It’s a practical nightstand with a clean design and a built-in power strip for charging devices without the usual cord clutter.
The build was completed without strict modeling or detailed plans, giving it a more fluid and intuitive process. Mark approached the design with a time constraint in mind, focusing on simplicity and function.
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Starting the Frame
The build starts with dimensioning rough lumber to create the main structure. Thicker solid wood was used for visible areas, while oak plywood was reserved for hidden sections.
This mix of materials kept the build efficient and minimized the number of glue-ups. It also provided enough contrast between structural and secondary elements.
Shaping the Structure
Legs were cut to the intended height and dadoes were made to fit the side panels snugly. These dados locked the panels into position and created a stable framework for the nightstand.
The middle shelf was installed with the help of stop blocks, keeping it square and evenly positioned between the legs. Careful alignment here helped everything else fall into place later.
Assembly Process
To avoid alignment issues, Mark broke the assembly into manageable stages. He started by gluing up the shelves and legs first, then moved on to the side and back panels.
Band clamps were used to keep corners tight during the glue-up. This method provided control and made the structure solid as each section was added.
Drawer Construction
The drawer boxes were built with plywood and trimmed with walnut strips to conceal the edges. These thin accents added contrast and gave the drawers a more polished appearance.
Half-lap joints were cut for strength, and dados were used to set the drawer slides. Everything was glued up for a clean finish without exposed fasteners.
Installing the Slides
A simple jig made it easy to mount the drawer slides in perfect alignment. This ensured the drawers opened and closed smoothly and fit properly within the frame.
Drawer hardware was also installed using a jig to guide the screw placement. This helped prevent mistakes and kept the process quick and repeatable.
Power Strip Integration
To include a power feature, Mark notched the back panel to allow the cord from a power strip to pass through. The power strip was installed inside the nightstand, keeping outlets within reach but hidden from view.
This made charging phones or other bedside devices much easier without the usual cable mess. It also added modern functionality to a classic woodworking build.
Applying the Finish
After everything was assembled, the nightstand was sanded and prepared for finishing. Mark used General Finishes Arm-R-Seal, applying multiple coats for a smooth and protective finish.
The result was a subtle sheen that brought out the wood grain without making the piece overly glossy. This finish works well in bedroom furniture where durability and appearance both matter.
Final Fit and Lessons Learned
The drawer fronts were installed last, completing the build. Mark noted a small issue with drawer depth that would be addressed in future versions, but it didn’t affect function.
Overall, the nightstand delivered on both style and practicality. It’s a simple yet thoughtful piece that adds convenience to the bedside space.
Want to See the Full Build?
You can see all of Mark’s plans here: https://www.gunflintdesigns.com/project-plans.