DIY Shaker Style Drawers: Build & Install Guide

• Informal
• Encouraging

Casual, Encouraging

Want to give your kitchen or bathroom a fresh, classic look without breaking the bank? Shaker style drawers are a fantastic way to do it, and you can totally make them yourself! The Shaker Workshops, known for their simple and functional designs, really nailed this timeless aesthetic. With just a few essential woodworking tools, you can achieve that same clean, framed look. Trust me, even if you’re new to DIY projects, tackling shaker style drawers is totally achievable. This guide will walk you through every step, from picking out the right kind of wood (like maple, a favorite for shaker furniture) to getting those drawers perfectly installed. So, let’s dive in and create some beautiful shaker style drawers for your home!

DIY Shaker Style Drawers: Build & Install Guide – Let’s Get Started!

So, you’re thinking about adding some classic charm to your home with shaker style drawers? Awesome! You’ve landed in the right place. This guide is all about walking you through each step, from measuring to installation, so you can create beautiful and functional drawers that you’ll be proud of. We’ll break it down in a way that’s super easy to follow. Ready to roll up your sleeves? Let’s dive in!

I. Planning & Preparation – The Foundation of Success

• Understanding Shaker Style:

  • Before you even pick up a piece of wood, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page about what “shaker style” actually means. Think simple, clean lines, recessed panels, and a focus on functionality. There’s an elegance in its simplicity that makes it so timeless. This will influence all your choices, from wood selection to hardware.

• Assessing Your Needs & Space:

  • What are these drawers for? Where are they going? Measure everything! Don’t skip this step. Accurate measurements are crucial for a perfect fit. Consider the depth, width, and height of the space where the drawers will live.
  • Think about what you’ll be storing. Deep drawers for pots and pans? Shallower ones for utensils?
  • Consider the existing decor. What wood type and finish will complement the rest of the room?

• Gathering Your Materials & Tools:

  Here’s a general checklist to get you started:

  • Wood: (more on this in a bit!)
  • Drawer Slides: (more on this below as well)
  • Wood Glue
  • Screws: (appropriate length for the wood thickness)
  • Clamps: (lots of them!)
  • Safety Glasses & Ear Protection: (safety first, always!)
  • Measuring Tape
  • Pencil
  • Square
  • Saw: (table saw, circular saw, or hand saw – whatever you’re comfortable with)
  • Router (optional, but helpful for creating the shaker panel groove)
  • Drill/Driver
  • Sandpaper: (various grits for smoothing)
  • Finishing Supplies: (stain, paint, varnish, etc., depending on your desired look)

II. Choosing the Right Materials – Setting the Stage

• Wood Selection:

  • Hardwoods: (Maple, Cherry, Oak) are durable and beautiful, but pricier. Great for high-use drawers or when you want a premium look.
  • Softwoods: (Pine, Poplar) are more affordable and easier to work with. Often used for painted drawers.
  • Plywood: A good option for drawer bottoms, offering stability and affordability.

• Drawer Slide Options:

  Different types of drawer slides offer different levels of functionality and weight capacity. Consider these points while choosing.

  Slide Type	Pros	Cons	Best For
  Side-Mount	Affordable, easy to install	Can reduce drawer width	General use, lighter loads
  Under-Mount	Hidden, sleek appearance	More complex installation, more expensive	Premium look, heavier loads
  Center-Mount	Simplest installation, least expensive	Lowest weight capacity	Light-duty drawers, smaller spaces
  Soft-Close/Self-Close	Prevents slamming, adds a luxurious feel	Higher cost	Drawers you want to be extra gentle with

III. Cutting the Pieces – Precision is Key

• Cutting List: Based on your measurements, create a detailed cutting list. This will help you stay organized and minimize mistakes. Label each piece as you cut it.

  • Example:
    • (2) Drawer Sides: X inches (height) x Y inches (depth)
    • (1) Drawer Front: Z inches (width) x X inches (height)
    • (1) Drawer Back: Z inches (width) x X inches (height)
    • (1) Drawer Bottom: Z inches (width) x Y inches (depth)
    • (4) Frame Stiles: A inches (height) x B inches (width)
    • (2) Frame Rails: C inches (width) x B inches (width)

• Accurate Cuts: Use a sharp saw and a square to ensure your cuts are precise. Remember, square cuts are essential for a well-fitting drawer.

• Shaker Panel Groove: If you’re using a router to create the groove for the shaker panel, take your time and make sure it’s consistent.

IV. Assembling the Drawer Box – Bringing it Together

• Dry Fit: Before you apply any glue, do a "dry fit" – assemble the pieces without glue to check for fit and make any necessary adjustments. This is your chance to catch any mistakes before they become permanent.
• Glue & Clamp: Apply wood glue to all mating surfaces and clamp the drawer box together. Make sure everything is square before the glue dries. Wipe away any excess glue with a damp cloth.
• Screw Reinforcement: After the glue has dried for the recommended time, add screws for extra strength. Countersink the screws to prevent them from sticking out.

V. Building the Shaker Style Drawer Front – The Face of Your Project

• Frame Assembly: Glue and clamp the frame stiles and rails together, ensuring they are square. Add screws for extra strength after the glue dries.
• Panel Insertion: Slide the shaker panel into the groove in the frame. The panel should fit snugly but not be too tight.
• Finishing the Front: Sand the drawer front smooth and apply your desired finish.

VI. Installing the Drawer Slides – Getting Ready to Slide

• Cabinet Installation: Install the cabinet-side portion of the drawer slides according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a level to ensure they are perfectly aligned.
• Drawer Installation: Attach the drawer-side portion of the slides to the drawer box. Again, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

VII. Final Installation & Adjustments – The Finishing Touches

• Mounting the Drawer Front: Attach the drawer front to the drawer box. There are several methods for doing this, including screws, glue, or specialized drawer front fasteners.
• Adjustments: Fine-tune the drawer slides to ensure the drawer opens and closes smoothly and is properly aligned. Many slides have adjustment screws for this purpose.
• Hardware: Install drawer pulls or knobs to complete the look.

So, there you have it! Building your own shaker style drawers might seem a little daunting at first, but with a bit of patience and these steps, you can totally transform your space. Now get out there and start creating some beautiful and functional shaker style drawers that you’ll be proud of for years to come!