Creating a Custom Nightstand to Elevate Your Bedroom Decor
Recently, I designed and built a spacious nightstand that complements the simple aesthetic of my platform bed, perfect for welcoming holiday guests. This versatile piece features a generous drawer coupled with an open shelf, providing ample storage for essentials and decorative items. Not only does it serve as a bedside companion, but it can also function as a stylish side table in your living area, ideal for holding lamps, books, or beverages.
To simplify the construction process, I partnered with Kreg Tools, leveraging their innovative clamps to ensure precise assembly. If you’re looking to expand your bedroom storage, consider building a complete matching set, including a four-drawer dresser, a seven-drawer tall dresser, and a one-drawer nightstand — all with detailed plans available. The matching three-drawer nightstand plans are also in development, so stay tuned for those updates.
Replicating the Pottery Barn Farmhouse Nightstand
This large nightstand design draws inspiration from the Pottery Barn Farmhouse Nightstand. Instead of two small drawers, I crafted a single, spacious drawer, cleverly styled to mimic two separate compartments by adding a subtle groove on the drawer front. This simple woodworking trick enhances the visual appeal without sacrificing storage space. Should you prefer two smaller drawers, you can modify the design accordingly. Additionally, incorporating drawer dividers can help organize items efficiently within the larger drawer, giving the appearance and function of multiple compartments while maximizing space.
Below the drawer, an open shelf provides a perfect spot for extra blankets, books, or decorative accessories, making it as functional as it is stylish.
Coordinated Bedroom Furniture Set
Achieve a cohesive bedroom aesthetic by building a matching set of furniture. These plans are designed to work together seamlessly, creating a harmonious look and maximizing storage. Included are plans for:
- Classic 4-drawer dresser
- Elegant 6-drawer dresser
- Spacious tall dresser with 7 drawers
- Simple 3-drawer nightstand
All these pieces can be customized to suit your style and storage needs, making your bedroom both beautiful and highly functional.
How to Build a Nightstand with a Shelf: A Comprehensive Tutorial
Tools & Materials Needed
Essential Tools:
- Miter saw – I recommend a sliding miter saw for precision cuts, but a standard one works well too. Keep an eye out for sales on larger models.
- Circular saw with guide track or a table saw
- Pocket hole jig – I use the Kreg 720 for frequent projects; the 520 or 320 models are excellent for beginners or limited spaces.
- Jig saw for making notches
- Power drill and impact driver – the impact driver eases the process by eliminating bit changes.
- Brad nailer for fast, clean assembly
- Kreg right-angle clamp and other specialized clamps for secure joints
- Sander for smooth finishing
- Cabinet hardware jig for precise placement of knobs or pulls
Supplies:
- Wood materials:
- Two 2″ x 2″ boards, 8 feet long
- Two 1″ x 2″ boards, 8 feet long
- Two 1″ x 6″ boards, 8 feet long
- One 3/4-inch plywood sheet measuring 30″ x 30″
- One 1/2-inch plywood sheet measuring 15″ x 25″
- One 1/4-inch plywood sheet measuring 12″ x 22″
- Fasteners and hardware:
- 1 1/4-inch pocket hole screws
- 2 1/2-inch pocket hole screws
- 1-inch pocket hole screws or staples/nails
- 5/8-inch brad nails
- Wood glue for strong joints
- 1-inch pan-head wood screws
- Figure-8 fasteners with screws for attaching the top
- Plywood edge banding for finishing visible edges
- 12-inch drawer slides for smooth operation
- Decorative drawer pulls or knobs
Overall Dimensions
The completed nightstand measures approximately 28 inches wide, 16.5 inches deep, and 28 inches tall. The drawer itself is 22 inches wide and 12 inches deep, offering generous storage space.
Cut List and Planning
Follow the detailed, easy-to-understand cut list and diagrams included in the downloadable PDF plans to efficiently cut your wood pieces. These plans also feature a comprehensive shopping list and step-by-step instructions, ensuring a smooth building process.
Enhancing the Drawer Design
To give the illusion of two smaller drawers, cut a narrow groove (about 1/4-inch wide and deep) across the drawer front. This can be easily achieved with a table saw or circular saw. This simple modification adds visual interest and makes the drawer resemble two separate compartments, while still maintaining maximum storage capacity.
Assembly Steps
Step 1: Construct the Sides
Using your pocket hole jig set for 3/4-inch material, drill pocket holes in the side panels. Attach these panels between the top and bottom rails, ensuring they are flush at the back and aligned at the front. Secure with pocket hole screws and wood glue. Repeat for both sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Shelf
Cut notches in the bottom shelf piece to fit around the legs, following the diagram. The back notches should be 1.5 inches deep, aligning the shelf flush with the back of the legs. The front notches should be 1.25 inches deep, creating a slight inset to match the drawer area. Add edge banding if desired. Secure with pocket hole screws.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Attach the center rails and back panel to the sides, ensuring proper alignment and spacing. Fix the shelf in place at 5.5 inches from the bottom. Secure all joints with pocket hole screws and glue. Repeat for the other side.
Step 4: Create the Top
Glue and screw the top pieces together to form a sturdy surface. Sand smooth for a polished finish.
Step 5: Build the Drawer
Cut the drawer sides, front, and back. Groove the bottom edges of the sides and front to fit the bottom panel. Assemble the box, check for squareness, insert the bottom panel, and secure it with brad nails. Finish the drawer with hardware and optional grooves for aesthetic appeal.
Step 6: Final Assembly and Finishing
Install the drawer slides, attach the drawer front, and align it with the opening, leaving a uniform gap. Secure the top to the base with figure-8 fasteners, centered side-to-side, with a slight overhang at the front. Finish with paint, stain, or sealant as desired.
Remember: Use the included detailed plans, diagrams, and tips for a professional-looking result. Your custom nightstand is now ready to enhance your bedroom’s style and storage.
Special thanks to Kreg Tools for sponsoring this project. I only recommend products I trust and love. All opinions are my own. For full details and disclosures, click here.