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Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf

to build a wide dresser with open bottom shelf. This dresser is the perfect mix of drawers and shelves. Build it yourself with our free step by step dresser plans, with diagrams, shopping and cut list from

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf

Specifications

Project typeDresser Plans
RoomBedroom
StyleFarmhouse Furniture
DifficultyAdvanced

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 1 – sheet ¾” plywood cut into strips 15 ¾” wide
  • 1 – sheet ¼” plywood
  • 5 – 1x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 6 – 2x2 @ 8 feet long (consider high grade 2x2s for added strength here)
  • 4 – 1x6 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 – 1x8 @ 10 feet long
  • 5 knobs or handles
  • 5 sets of 16” white euro style bottom corner mount drawer slides
  • 1 ¼ and 2 ½” pocket hole screws
  • 1 ¼” brad nails

Cut List

  • 2 – 3/4" plywood @ 15-3/4" x 18 ¾” (sides)
  • 8 – 1x2 @ 15 ¾”
  • 4 – 2x2 @ 31 ¾”
  • 2 – 2x2 @ 15 ¾”
  • 6 – 2x2 @ 55 ½”
  • 2 – 1x2 @ 55 ½”
  • 6 – 1x2 @ 7 ½”
  • 1 – 3/4" plywood @ 15-3/4" x @ 57” (top)
  • 2 – 1x2 @ 15 ¾”
  • 2 – 1x2 @ 60”
  • 1 - 3/4" plywood @ 15-3/4" x 55 ½” (shelf)
  • 1 – ¼” plywood @ 58 ½” x 18 ¾” (back)

SMALL DRAWERS

  • 6 – 1x6 @ 16”
  • 6 – 1x6 @ 15 ½”
  • 3 – ¼” plywood @ 17” x 16”
  • 3 – 1x8 @ 17 3/4"

LARGE DRAWERS

  • 4 – 1x6 @ 16”
  • 4 – 1x6 @ 24 7/8”
  • 2 – ¼” plywood @ 16” x 26 3/8”
  • 2 – 1x8 @ 27 1/8”

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • kreg-jig
  • drill
  • compound miter saw
  • nailer
  • sander

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

First things first... Go through and mark out all pocket holes. For the sides, drill 3/4 pocket holes along side and top edges on insides. Then attach trim as shown in diagram with 1-1/4" nails and glue.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 1
2

Step 2

Now attach legs with 1 1/4" pocket hole screws through pure drilled holes. Then attach bottom with 1-1/2" pocket holes and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 2
3

Step 3

Now add the front and back trim to fom shape of dresser. TIP: Consider adding the dividers from next step as you go as it will get tight to fit a drill in later on.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 3
4

Step 4

You may have to use a countersink bit to attach just because it will be hard to get your drill in there. Its super important here to be very accurate or your drawers won't slide right.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 4
5

Step 5

Attach trim to the outside edges of the top with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Attach to top of dresser.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 5
6

Drill 3/4" pocket holes on all four edges of the bottom shelf.

Attach to the shelf framing with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 6
7

Step 7

Build your drawers to fit openings, 1" less in overall width than inside openings. Here is a good video showing how to build and install drawers.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 7
8

Step 8

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 8
9

Step 9

Insert drawers and attach drawer faces with even gap around all sides. I use 1 1/4" finish nails and glue"

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 9
10

Step 10

Attach back last so you can reach in and get your drawers just right.

Wide Dresser with Open Bottom Shelf — step 10
11

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/wide-dresser-open-bottom-shelf-cabin-collection