Top 5 Woodworking Projects From Sam Macy

These five standout builds were designed and built by Sam Macy.

Ranging from creative storage solutions to refined furniture and home upgrades, each project captures Sam’s thoughtful, hands-on approach to woodworking.

This collection highlights what makes each build unique, how it was tackled, and what woodworkers can take away—whether you’re just looking for ideas or planning a project of your own.

Watch the full video and subscribe to Sam’s channel:

Prohibition-Style Whiskey Cabinet

Sam’s hidden whiskey cabinet combines fun, function, and clever design. What looks like a decorative sign flips open via a small electric actuator, revealing an organized liquor display lit by an automatic LED strip.

The carcass was built from plywood with a decorative face veneered in a richer wood species.

Inside, dividers keep bottles secure, while soft lighting adds a polished touch when the front flips open.

For woodworkers interested in hidden storage or mechanical reveals, this project is a great starting point.

Small electrical elements like light sensors and actuators are easy to integrate with a little planning. Just be mindful of accessibility—Sam noted the front panel could be difficult to operate for shorter users.

Custom Truck Console

Though compact, this custom truck console is one of Sam’s most-used builds. Designed for the center area of a GMC 2500HD, it adds cup holders, phone storage, and extra space in a factory-matching design.

The console was built from plywood and finished to match the truck’s interior trim. Routed cup holder openings, rubber edge lining, and a rich walnut finish helped the piece blend seamlessly into the cabin.

This project is a reminder that woodworking doesn’t have to stay in the shop or home—automotive interior builds are a great way to apply your skills in a new context.

Just be sure to anchor the piece securely so it doesn’t shift while driving.

Built-In Closet Dresser with Walnut Top

This dresser, built into a small closet, serves as both a changing table and long-term storage solution. It’s one of Sam’s most polished residential projects and offers inspiration for anyone trying to make better use of tight spaces.

Sam combined high-quality plywood for the carcass with a solid walnut-look top and trim. Inset drawer fronts, soft-close hardware, and careful proportions give the piece a custom furniture feel while maximizing function.

Built-ins require extra planning to fit precisely within the space. Sam’s approach—balancing plywood structure with a hardwood surface—shows how to elevate utility builds with just a few refined touches.

Cherry Farmhouse Sliding Barn Door

Made from solid cherry, this sliding barn door adds warmth and elegance to any space.

The clean “X” pattern and deepening natural color of the cherry make it both a statement piece and a lasting home upgrade.

The construction uses basic tongue-and-groove joinery and a simple bevel profile, allowing the beauty of the hardwood to shine. Sam’s careful finishing process and attention to clean lines gave the door a handcrafted feel without overcomplication.

For builders on a budget, this project can be adapted using cherry plywood or veneered panels. Hardware selection and wall mounting are critical here, so be sure to reinforce appropriately for the weight.

Simple DIY Cubbies

Designed as a commission for a local gym, this set of cubbies offered pure functional joy. Made from plywood and assembled into modular locker-style units, the build focuses on repetition, clean cuts, and immediate usability.

Each cubby features hooks, compartments, and a clean-painted finish. The design works well in mudrooms, entryways, or playrooms where everyday storage is needed without sacrificing order or appearance.

This is a great entry-level build that rewards precision over complexity. Even better, it can be scaled up or down, customized with trim, or adapted for commercial or home use.

Sam has also made plans available on his channel for those interested.

Final Thoughts

These five builds represent some of Sam Macy’s most practical, creative, and rewarding projects.

From hidden compartments and home upgrades to modular storage and vehicle accessories, each project offers lessons in design, function, and shop techniques.

Whether you’re building for your own home or looking for small-shop side income ideas, Sam’s YouTube channel provides full walkthroughs for each of these builds and more.

Individual project links: