Maximize Storage in a Compact Space with This Tall DIY 7-Drawer Dresser
If you’re short on room but need ample storage, this tall DIY dresser is an excellent solution. Measuring only 38 inches in width, it offers impressive verticality, standing taller than traditional wide dressers. The top features four small, convenient drawers perfect for organizing smaller clothing items, while the bottom boasts three spacious drawers designed for larger garments or linens. The added height allows you to optimize storage in confined spaces, making it ideal for bedrooms with limited floor area.
This 7-drawer tall dresser is part of a coordinated bedroom furniture set. I’ve already shared plans for the matching 6-drawer dresser, 4-drawer dresser, and 1-drawer nightstand. Stay tuned for the upcoming 3-drawer nightstand to complete the ensemble.
Design Inspiration: A Farmhouse Look at a Fraction of the Cost
This dresser draws inspiration from the elegant tall dresser in Pottery Barn’s Farmhouse series. The Classic Dresser collection exudes a high-end aesthetic without the hefty price tag. One of my favorite aspects of this project was purchasing all the required wood for three dressers and a nightstand at a total cost less than a single Pottery Barn dresser. Plus, I had the freedom to choose the wood type—my preferred choice was alder, which naturally radiates warmth and shares a cherry-like hue but is more budget-friendly. The characteristic knots in alder add rustic charm, enhancing the simplicity of the design.
To finish the dresser, I utilized Baltic birch plywood (1/2 inch thick) for all the drawers. A single 4×8 sheet provides enough material to craft all seven drawers, making this project economical and efficient.
Complete Matching Dresser Set
Love this tall dresser? You can assemble a full bedroom set that includes:
- Classic 4-Drawer Dresser Build Plans
- Classic 6-Drawer Dresser Build Plans
- Classic 3-Drawer Nightstand Build Plans
- Classic 1-Drawer Nightstand with Shelf Plans
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Tall 7-Drawer Dresser
Tools & Materials Needed
Recommended Tools:
- Miter saw (consider a sliding model for versatility; watch for discounts)
- Circular saw with guide track or table saw
- Pocket hole jig (such as Kreg 720, 520, or 320 for beginners)
- Power drill
- Impact driver (optional but highly recommended)
- Speed square
- Multi-mark measuring tool
- Right-angle clamp
- Clamps (face clamps)
- Sander
- Pneumatic stapler (optional)
- Trim router (optional)
- Brad nailer (optional)
Supplies:
- PDF Detailed Build Plans
- Wood components:
- Four 2×2 boards, 8 feet long
- Four 1×2 boards, 8 feet long
- One 3/4 inch plywood sheet (4×8)
- One 1/2 inch plywood sheet (4×8)
- One 1/4 inch plywood sheet (4×8)
- Plywood edge banding
- 1 1/4 inch pocket hole screws
- 2 1/2 inch pocket hole screws
- 1 inch wood screws
- 2 inch wood screws
- 1 inch pneumatic staples or pocket hole screws
- Wood glue
- Seven pairs of 16 inch drawer slides
- Seven drawer pulls
Overall Dimensions
The completed dresser measures 38 inches wide, 20 inches deep, and 50 3/4 inches tall. The top four drawers are approximately 16 inches wide, 15 1/8 inches high, and 4 3/4 inches deep, ideal for smaller items. The bottom three drawers are 16 inches wide, 32 inches high, and 8 1/2 inches deep, offering ample storage for larger clothing or linens.
Cut List & Instructions
Use the provided detailed PDF plans to cut all pieces accurately. Start by ripping plywood sheets into strips with a RipCut guide, then cross-cut to final sizes. The plans include diagrams and tips for efficient plywood breakdown. For the drawer fronts and top, apply edge banding to conceal plywood edges—attach the banding to the sides first, then the top/bottom to ensure a solid finish. Alternatively, solid wood drawer fronts can be crafted from 1×6 and 1×10 boards if preferred.
Step 1: Build the Sides
Using your pocket hole jig, drill pocket holes in the edges of the side trim pieces and perimeter of the side panels. Attach the trim to the panels with 1 1/4 inch pocket hole screws and wood glue, ensuring the panels are flush with the back of the trim. Secure each side to a leg piece, making sure the panel aligns flush at the top and back. Repeat for the other side.
Step 2: Construct the Front Frame
Drill pocket holes in the ends of the front, back trim, dividers, and center pieces. Assemble the upper frame around the smaller drawers, centering the dividers between the trim pieces. Hide pocket holes by positioning them appropriately—top trim facing up, bottom trim facing down. Secure with screws and glue.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Attach the front frame to the sides, setting it back 1/4 inch from the front edge and flush with the top. Use scrap plywood to position the frame accurately. Drill pocket holes in the back supports and attach them to the sides with screws and glue, ensuring the back is centered and 1 1/2 inches above the bottom. If desired, add a plywood back for aesthetic or structural reasons.
Step 4: Build the Drawer Boxes
Create a 1/4 inch deep groove inside the drawer sides, front, and back to fit the bottom panel. Assemble the boxes with pocket hole screws or staples, ensuring the top edges are flush. Insert the bottom panel into the groove, then secure the back panel. Optional: round over the inside edges for a smoother finish.
Step 5: Install the Drawers & Fronts
Mount the drawer slides to the sides, positioning them 7/8 inch from the bottom for proper clearance. Attach the drawer fronts flush with the frame, leaving a 1/8 inch gap around edges. Temporarily fix the fronts from inside with brad nails, then secure permanently with screws. Attach your chosen drawer pulls.
Step 6: Attach the Top & Finalize Finish
Remove the drawers, place the top on the dresser frame, and secure with screws through pre-drilled holes—three at the front and three at the back. Reinstall the drawers. Finish by staining, sealing, or painting your dresser—my preference is a matte finish that enhances the natural alder wood tone.
Don’t Forget to Download the Printable PDF Plans!
Our comprehensive plans include:
- Clear, easy-to-follow cut list
- Shopping list
- Step-by-step instructions with 3D drawings
- Helpful tips and resources
- Exclusive 3D SketchUp file as a bonus
You’ll love organizing your wardrobe with this spacious yet compact dresser. Happy woodworking!