Are you looking to upgrade your kitchen, add storage to a piece of furniture, or simply learn a new woodworking skill? Learning how to build a drawer is an essential technique that opens up a world of possibilities for home improvement projects.
This guide will walk you through the process of creating sturdy, attractive drawers without the need for specialized tools or complex jigs.
Supplies You’ll Need
Before diving into the construction, gather the following supplies. These will be essential for building your drawers and ensuring they function smoothly:
1. Drawer Slides: Choose from
- 3/4 Opening Euro Slides
- Full Extension Slides
- Soft Close Slides
2. Drawer Pull: Select according to your style preference.
3. Plywood:
- 1/2″ or 3/4″ sanded plywood (for sides; birch is a good option)
- 1/4″ sanded plywood (for the bottom)
4. Tools:
- Pencil
- Tape Measure
- Combination Square
- Drill
- Pocket Hole Jig and Screws
- Wood Glue
- Edge Banding (iron and trimmer for installation)
- Brad Nailer (or finishing nails and hammer)
- Circular Saw or Table Saw
- Miter Saw
- Sander with 220 grit paper
- Drawer Slide Jig (optional)
How to Build a Drawer – Simple Steps
Step 1: Choosing and Measuring for Drawer Slides
Before we grab our saws and hammers, let’s talk about drawer slides – the magical metal tracks that make your drawers glide smoothly. There are three main types to consider:
- Euro Slides (most affordable and easiest to install): These come in and out easily, making them perfect for lighter drawers.
- Full Extension Ball Bearing Slides (smoother operation): These offer a more luxurious feel and extend the entire drawer length.
- Soft Close Slides (add a touch of elegance): These have a built-in mechanism that gently closes the drawer for a quieter, more controlled feel.
Once you’ve chosen your slides, it’s time to measure! Here’s a key point to remember: account for the slide thickness when determining your drawer depth.
Step 2: Sizing Up Your Drawers
Now that we know the slide situation, let’s figure out the perfect size for your drawers. Here’s a general rule of thumb – subtract an inch from your total opening height to ensure a snug fit.
For width, consider the slide thickness (typically ½ inch) and factor that in when measuring your drawer’s front and back panels.
Step 3: Building the Drawer Box
This is where the fun begins – assembling the actual box of your drawer! We’ll be using plywood for this, and you can cut it at your local store if you don’t have the tools at home.
Here’s a cool trick – use pocket hole joinery to create clean and strong connections. Pocket holes are drilled at an angle into the wood, allowing screws to create a secure joint from the inside. Don’t worry, pocket hole jigs are easy to use and readily available!
Step 4: Attaching the Bottom
Time to give your drawer a base! We’ll use a thinner piece of plywood for the bottom and secure it with glue and brads.
Want to hide the exposed plywood edge? No problem! A router with a chamfer bit can create a smooth, finished look.
Step 5 & 6: Mounting the Slides and Drawer
Now, we install the drawer slides onto the cabinet frame and the drawer itself. The process might differ slightly depending on your chosen slide type, so be sure to consult the slide’s instructions for specific details.
Step 7: Mounting a Slide in Open Space
This step might seem tricky, but don’t worry! If you don’t have a bottom shelf to reference for slide placement, some clever math can come to the rescue. We’ll essentially divide your cabinet opening into equal sections to determine where each slide needs to be positioned.
Step 8 & 9: Drawer Pulls and Drawer Fronts
Finally, it’s time to add the finishing touches! Drawer pulls come in a wide variety of styles and finishes, so you can personalize your drawers to match your taste.
For the drawer fronts, you can use solid wood or plywood with edge banding, depending on your preference. When it comes to attaching the fronts, there are a couple of methods we can explore – using spacers for even gaps or screwing them directly onto the drawer box.
Step 10: Done!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully built your very own drawers. Take a moment to admire your handiwork – you’ve transformed simple materials into a functional and beautiful addition to your space.
So, are you ready to give drawer building a try? With this guide as your companion, you have all the knowledge and confidence you need to tackle this project. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something special with your own two hands!