Wood Pullout Cabinet Drawer Organizer

Difficulty

Intermediate

After organizing my junk drawer successfully, I felt confident and inspired to tackle some more cabinet storage. And of course, first up, what to do with all the princess plates, lunchroom trays and sippy cups with missing lids.

How about a drawer, right at the height of a four year old? And how about a nice deep drawer, with a big chalkboard label on it?

Of course, you could install this drawer on the bottom shelf, make the drawer have taller or shorter sides, or even put it under the sink for trash cans . . . and attach the cabinet door to the front of it for a real pullout trash can on a super budget. There are no limits, beyond your time and your imagination.

I'm going to show you today how I built this drawer for Grace (and will probably be building more drawers for my pots and pans and maybe even one for our dog . . . ) and you can easily modify it to fit your cabinets. I spent about $10 on the drawer, with $6 for the 1x6 (I actually had scraps so this was free for me) and about $4 for the drawer slides. I also used half of a 2x2, so there's another buck. I made the chalkboard label with scrap plywood and chalkboard paint and glued in on. The drawer as shown here has not yet been finished.

Custom to fit your Cabinets

Preparation

Shopping List

1 - 1x6 @ 8 feet long

1 - 2x2 @ 4 feet long
scrap 1/4" plywood
21" Drawer Slides

Common Materials

2 inch screws

1 1/4 inch finish nails

Elmer's Wood Glue

Elmer's Wood Filler

Cut List

Cut to fit your cabinets.

Tools

General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Instructions

Step 1

The first thing you need to do is measure the opening of your cabinets and the depth of your cabinets. Mine had a clearance opening (the hinges took up a little room too) of 14 1/2". Remember that your drawer slides also take up 1" all for both, so that's a total drawer width of 13 1/2". To be safe, I made mine 13" wide, and cut 2 1x6s to this length. Then I measured the depth of the opening. Mine was 22 3/4" deep. So I cut the 2x2s to the depth of the cabinet and then cut the two 1x6s to this measurement minus 1 1/2" - so for me, 21 1/4". I then cut the 1/4" plywood to 13" x 22 3/4".

Step 2

With all the boards cut, I built a simple box (used 1 1/4" pocket hole screws but you could also use 2" screws countersunk) and glue. The I tapped the bottom on with 1 1/4" finish nails and glue.

Step 3

Because these cheapo drawer slides (that actually work really well and are quite strong) are side/bottom mount, you can get away with just tacking 1/4" plywood to the bottom. The weight of the drawer contents sits right on the slides. I attached the two drawer parts of the slides to the bottom of the drawer as shown above.

Step 4

Then I attached the remaining drawer slide pieces to the 2x2s as shown here. Make sure these pieces are attached level and in the same position on both 2x2s. This is important. I used the screws that came with the slides, and followed the directions on the slides.

Step 5

Step 6

Then I simply positioned the whole setup inside the cabinet, and because of the tight fit, screwed the 2x2s to the shelf from the underside. But if you had more clearance from the top, you could screw from the top too. Used 2" screws here, just two per 2x2.

Step 7

And then just put the drawer in. The drawer is easy to remove and clean (and in my case, finish) and I really love the 2x2s in there, because they keep things from sliding under your drawer. Off to build . . . six more.

Finishing Instructions

Preparation Instructions

Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.

Project Type

Kitchen Island Plans

Kitchen Cabinet Plan, Accessories and Serving

Kitchen Organization and Accessories

Cabinet Plans

Room

kitchen

Style

Cottage Style Furniture Plans

Comments

Marsa (not verified)

Mon, 03/21/2011 - 23:17

Wooden drawer pullout cabinet organizer

This is a fabulous Idea! I have wanted them for my cabinets but to have them done is outrageous. I am SO going to do this! Thank you Ana

Jeanne Miller (not verified)

Mon, 03/21/2011 - 23:20

lazy suzan cupboard?

We have a lazy Suzan style cupboard in our kitchen. I love the amount of room in it, but that shelf never stays up so I want to pull it out again. I was wondering if you might have some ideas about how to make it more functional?

sebringvillemum

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 05:28

YES!

I've done this before in our previous house... and really need to do it in this house for the tupperware lids! So nice to have a clear picture of how to make it work smoothly!

Brilliant... now to see if I have any wood to build a box with!

mplauger

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 05:44

cabinet color

we are remodeling our house so we are going to need stain for all kinds of things: doors, trim, etc and now that I found your site: I need it for furniture! Our cabinets and vanities are maple; one company calls is Sandelwood. They look really similar to yours, at least in the picture. I am having the toughest time matching up stain to it! Help!

BTW, love the drawers! :-D

sydneyroo

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 06:02

I didn't even know I needed

I didn't even know I needed this until I saw it! One step ahead, as usual, Ana!

mycreativeescapes

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 06:11

You read my mind!

OK Ana - you must have read my mind. I am building a craft room - and want to put in drawer slides - this came at the perfect time!!! Thank you so much!

songbirdfeeder

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 06:14

where did you get the drawer glides?

I had wanted to do this in my cabinets, but the only drawer glides I saw (at Lowe's--we don't have HD near us) were around $25. Where did you get some for $4?

Guest (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 18:17

Got mine from Home Depot

It does depend on the length but I just bought 22 inch ones for 7.48. They had some that were MUCH more - around $25 - but you don't need all the hoopla that comes with it. I got mine at Home Depot but Lowe's and Home Depot are owned by competing brothers so I am surprised that they would have prices so different even if there isn't competition in your area.

songbirdfeeder

Thu, 03/24/2011 - 15:44

Thank you

I found the ones online at HD that you're talking about. I think I'll print that out and take to Lowe's. Maybe they have some comparable ones that I couldn't find when I was there.

judym

Thu, 03/24/2011 - 12:32

I found some at Lee Valley Tools

Though Lee Valley Tools only has stores in Canada, they do offer online shopping. Right now, there is a no shipping fee deal on until March 28. You can find all kinds of drawer slides ... the standard kitchen slides hold about 55lbs which is more than I need. The prices for a 21" (550 mm) set of slides range from $4.80-$6.00 depending on how many you buy. If you live in a rural area like me where there is no Orange or Blue or much of anything within a 30-45 minute drive, online is the way to go!

songbirdfeeder

Thu, 03/24/2011 - 15:39

Thanks judym

Maybe because I'm in the US, the free shipping is only on orders of $40 or more. I don't need that many slides. The shipping for up to $20 will be $8.50. Even though the closest HD is a ways away, it might still be cheaper for me to do that. But I appreciate your help!

Guest (not verified)

Sat, 04/09/2011 - 09:13

Wood drawer pulls

We bought ours at Lowes on isle 4 last night for I think 5.50 a piece hope this helps!

Tomboy Lisa

Mon, 04/25/2011 - 10:32

Drawer Glides

I was at my Habitat for Humanity Restore and saw some recently. They are an awesome resource for your "rebuilding" products.

crustymom

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 06:49

Thank you!!

Thank you thank you thank you!! I have been waiting for this. You are awesome. I am going to build it this weekend. You have saved me a a pile of money. Store bought ones are $100 each.

Jenny graddy (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 06:49

love drawers everywhere

thanks! I have been saving drawer slides from furniture and now can get motivated to use them for this!!

I started installing drawers everywhere..mostly the plastic storage kind or the wire kind. I like the look of these better.

I also made a mini dresser with boxes, paper mache and covered it with fabric. I know your site focuses on wood items, but since so many of boxes from all the online orders, this is a cool project to consider :)

Sarah R. (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 06:53

I have been thinking of this

I have been thinking of this very thing as of late! I desperately need an accessable drawer for my kids to retrieve their own cups, plates, etc. Awesome Ana--thanks so much!!

crystal777

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 06:55

Thank You!!

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I have wanted to know how to do this forever! I have been watching your site faithfully in hopes of finding just this. (Of course, I've fought several other projects along the way, too:) I don't comment often, so, while I'm at it; I LOVE your site, thank you so much for all you do.

Janey (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 07:20

Thank you!

I have been planning to figure this out for myself for a long time now, but you've taken the guesswork out of it for me, Ana! Yay! It's actually cheaper than I thought it was going to be. My bathroom cabinets are in dire need of these drawers. Now that I think about it, the kitchen cabinet would be great with them too. Now I have no other reason to procrastinate doing it. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! And my cabinets thank you.

cate (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 07:30

Can you come up with an

Can you come up with an organizer for a blind corner PLEASE. I REALLY need one.

Ellie (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 08:52

Love, the drawers, need about

Love, the drawers, need about 20. Grace is the most beautiful project that you made!

Vickie

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 10:47

Oh, Wow

My to do list just keeps getting longer. I have a 'kid cupboard' where whenever you open the door, something falls out. This would be a perfect fix. Thank you!

Guest (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 12:07

Hurray

Guest (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 12:09

HURRAY

I was just asking my husband to show me how to install drawer slides. Now I can do it all on my own! Thanks Ana, I love your new website and visit it daily!

Ulrike (not verified)

Tue, 03/22/2011 - 12:19

Very nice!

I've been thinking about doing something like this for my pots & pans. I wouldn't have thought to use 2x2s. Glad you posted this.

Lynn Peters (not verified)

Wed, 03/23/2011 - 03:12

Love these!

As always, you are awesome!

judym

Thu, 03/24/2011 - 12:38

Yay - something I can work on until the snow goes!

I've been wanting to work on this project for some time now, but until now did not feel confident (or have instructions as clear as yours!). As the snow and temperatures continue to fall and fluctuate here in rural Alberta, it may still be some time yet before I can work outside. This project is actually feasible in my small garage ... and this is something for which I can enlist the help of my kids (who will be off for Spring Break for the next 10 days and will need activities to keep them busy!). Thank you!

Sherrie Bowen (not verified)

Fri, 03/25/2011 - 12:33

Wha if top shelf is only half as deep as the bottom?

All my base cabinets have a top shelf that is half as deep as the bottom, do you think it would still work?

loniwolfe

Fri, 03/25/2011 - 15:17

GENIUS!!!

I've got a tape measurer at my side and am going to take measurements right now!

I see a new home for the lids to my pots and pans!!!

amadorgirl

Fri, 03/25/2011 - 20:01

Perfect for a re-purpose

I have a beautiful mission style entertainment center. I am considering mounting my tv on the wall and for the past 2 weeks have been trying to figure out how to refit the shelving underneath with drawers (which currently house CDS and DVD player, etc.). I am running out of DVD movie shelving elsewhere and felt like drawers here would solve my problem and I would be re-purposing a piece of furniture I love! THANK YOU!

jengil_1

Fri, 04/01/2011 - 23:22

Blind Corner / Lazy Susan to come??

Ditto the above request. I soooooo need to do something with a deep, dark, corner kitchen cupboard.

I actually put an old drawer from my neighbor's kitchen remodel (they were throwing out our exact cupboards! hmmm... couldn't mean they're shabby, could it?) and just placed it on the bottom shelf. For a while I considered gluing a frame around it on the cabinet base so it would come out straight, as I saw the $25 slides and about fell over! Now I will definitely look for slides. And it's MUCH heavier than your rendition, which would work so much better. Repurposing only goes so far! ;)

Thanks for all you do, Ana.

jengil_1

Mon, 05/02/2011 - 21:12

Update

I found heavy duty drawer slides for $3 at our local Restore. Yeah!

Heatherdawn

Fri, 11/25/2011 - 00:04

Love Habitat for Humanity's Restore :)

Me too! I love Habitat for Humanity's ReStore :)
http://www.habitat.org/restores/

nikiley

Mon, 04/11/2011 - 07:32

Getting Started

Hi Ana!! I am sitting here figuring out what I need to get for my cabinet project. I have a cut list ready to go. But I can't seem to find the Getting Started page that you suggest reading at the beginning of the instructions. Maybe I don't know where to look for it. Also didn't you used to have a post about how to select wood and where to find what you're looking for?

Anyway, I think I'll just go wander around until I find the right wood, but I love the new site. Looks beautiful!

Nikki

armymiz

Mon, 04/11/2011 - 09:44

On the home page

I think both of the pages you are looking for can be found on the home page. There is as drop down menu under "How To..." near the top of the page. Hope that helps!

debbie (not verified)

Thu, 06/16/2011 - 08:33

drawer pull outs

I love this!!1 I need this desperately for my pots and pans drawer.

glassbycass

Wed, 01/14/2015 - 00:19

The shelf must come first?

I looked in the comments, but didn't see any solution for cabinets that do not have a shelf :( My bathroom cabinets for example desperately need sliding drawers / organizers and this project actually seems affordable & do-able! However, I was so excited by finding this tutorial and really excited while finding deals, sales, pre-used, scrap supplies,etc - that I completely overlooked a major obstacle. My cabinets do not have shelves or brace supports or anything at all actually. So ... should I now go look up how to add a shelf to a cabinet? I'm assuming the shelf must come first since the 2x2's get attached to the shelf - is there any certain way this shelf needs to be? Sorry for all the questions - the term newbie doesn't even begin to cover it. Thanks in advance for any & all help with this :)

Ana White

Wed, 01/14/2015 - 13:37

No Shelf Required for Pull Out Drawers

Hi! I actually think pull out drawers are even easier if you don't have an existing shelf. You'll just attach your drawer slide cabinet members directly to the cabinet itself (no 2x2 blocks are required).

If you have a euro style cabinet (meaning there is no frame on the front of the cabinet) you would just attach to the inside of the sides of the cabinet (just make sure the drawer will pass the hinges, if not you'll need to shim the drawer slides in ward with maybe a 1x2 on the hinge side - scroll through this post http://ana-white.com/2013/12/momplex/drawers-closet-tower for images)

If you have a face frame, you can attach the drawer slides directly to the face frame and the back of the cabinet - here's an example http://ana-white.com/2013/12/momplex/kitchen-cabinet-drawers-metabox- you don't need to use those slides)

Hope all this helps!

glassbycass

Wed, 01/14/2015 - 17:52

THANK YOU!

More than impressed with your quick and informative response :-D I think you are officially my hero! You are not only handy, talented and inspirational - you are kind and helpful! Thank you thank you thank you!

glassbycass

Wed, 01/14/2015 - 17:52

THANK YOU!

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.