Modern Farmhouse Nightstand
This DIY modern farmhouse nightstand combines clean lines with practical storage, featuring a spacious drawer, a generous tabletop, and an open lower shelf. Crafted from affordable materials, it's designed to complement your farmhouse bed without overshadowing it. Whether you're using leftover plywood or purchasing new supplies, you can build this stylish piece for around $25–$50. Its versatile design also makes it suitable as a side table in your living room. and step-by-step instructions, this project is perfect for intermediate woodworkers looking to add a functional and attractive piece to their home.
Specifications
| Project type | Nightstands |
|---|---|
| Room | Bedroom |
| Style | Farmhouse Furniture |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 3 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long (about $2 each)
- 1 - 24" x 48" x 3/4" thick plywood panel (about$20)
- 1 - 1/4" plywood piece, at least 18" x 15-1/4" (about $7)
- 1 - 1x4 @ 6 feet long (about $7)
- 1 - 18" euro style drawer slide, 1/2" clearance needed for each slide (about $5)
Cut List
- 4 - 2x2 @ 22-1/2" - Legs
- 2 - 2x2 @ 19-1/2" - Front Frame
- 7 - 2x2 @ 16-1/2" - Remaining Frame pieces
- 3 - 3/4" plywood @ 16-1/2" x 7-1/4" - side/back
- 2 - 3/4" plywood @ 16-1/2" x 16-1/2" - top/shelf
- 2 - 1x4 @ 18" - drawer sides
- 2 - 1x4 @ 14" - drawer front/back
- 1 - 1/4" plywood @ 18" x 15-1/2" - drawer bottom
- 1 - 1x6 or 3/4" plywood @ 5-1/2" x 16-1/4" - drawer face
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
- compound miter saw
- nailer
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
For all 2x2 to 2x2 joints, use a single 1-1/2" pocket hole and 2-1/2" pocket hole screw, with glue.
Build two of the frames shown in diagram above.
Step 2
Attach front and back frames with the 16-1/2" long 2x2s.
Step 3
Attach front drawer frame piece with 1-1/2" pocket holes and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws and glue.
Step 4
Set circular saw blade depth to about 1/8". Make false cuts 1-1/2" up from bottom edge of 3/4" plywood with circular saw to look like 2x2. Drill 3/4" pocket holes on sides and top of plywood pieces on inside. Attach inside the 2x2 side frame flush to outside with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Repeat for back (optional for bedside table).
Step 5
Step 6
Build drawer box with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket holes screws. Attach drawer bottom with 3/4" brad nails and glue, making sure drawer box is square. Install drawer in cabinet, attaching drawer slides to the 2x2 framing.
Step 7
Position drawer face on drawer box with an even gap around all four sides. Attach with two 1-1/4" brad nails through face (avoid areas where knob or pull will be installed). Remove drawer and further secure from inside with a couple of 1-1/4" pocket hole screws or similar.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/diy-modern-farmhouse-nightstand-stylish-functional-budget-friendly