Printers Triple Console Cabinet

Difficulty
Intermediate
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Build your own sideboard with free plans from Ana-White.com. Features three large drawers and three large cupboards behind doors, inspired by Restoration Hardware Printermaker Sideboard, there's plenty of style and storage in this project plan!

Happy Monday!!!

We are so glad to be back home! 

Thank you all for your patience with me last week as we traveled. There truly is no place like home.

We'll be leaving again next week, but this time, we are coming to visit you! I'll put a post together later today with all of those details :) to say I'm excited is an understatement! 

With all this travel and preparations and everything else going on, I've been afraid to start tackling projects, knowing I may not have the time to finish them. Do you ever get that way? Don't want to start a project because you know the time isn't right? 

Well, I have a story for you today that has inspired me, and will hopefully inspire you too. 

My friend Jen Woodhouse was nine months pregnant when she wrote me saying she wanted to work on a bar cabinet, but her baby is due in three weeks. I had promised her plans a bit back, and she wrote saying if I could get her plans right away, she could hopefully finish the project before the baby came. Otherwise, she thought she might need three weeks to adjust to the new baby and recover before she could build again. 

I got her the plans as fast as I could. 

And in literally the days before the new baby arrived, this is what Jen built.

I feel so inspired to just go start tackling my projects now, even if my suitcase isn't unpacked yet, even if I need to start packing my next suitcase.  Because if Jen can build this at nine months pregnant, what can't we all do?

And might I say this buffet cabinet or sideboard is very beautiful???  Don't you love the finish?  I especially love the character all those little false drawers add to it!

Jen used PureBond Plywood, which is formaldehyde free and made with soy based adhesives, and soooo beautiful for the main plywood pieces.  If you are expecting, it does not mean you still can't safely build!  

Of course we have you covered with the free step by step plans, but you simply must go visit Jen Woodhouse for step by step building photos, details on her build, and modifications she made.  Go visit Jen now!

So what is keeping you from building?  If you want this sideboard, go build it!  The free plans follow!

Dimensions
Dimensions shown above.

Preparation

Shopping List

3 sets euro style bottom corner mount drawer slides, 16” length
3 – sets inset hinges
24 – cup style handles
8 – 2x2 @ 8 feet long
6 – 1x3 @ 8 feet long
6 – 1x2 @ 8 feet long
1 sheet ¾” plywood (get 1 ½” sheets if you want shelves)
2 – 1x6 @ 10 feet long
1 ¼” and 2 ½” PH screws
Wood glue

Cut List

FACE FRAMES
2 – 2x2 @ 72”
8 – 2x2 @ 34 ½”
9 – 2x2 @ 22”

DOOR/DRAWER FACES
24 – 1x3 @ 21 ¾”
18 – 1x2 @ 21 ¾”
6 – 1x2 @ 22 ½”

MAIN BOX
4 – 2x2 @ 15 ¾”
2 – 1x16 @ 69”
4 – 1x16 @ 31”

DRAWERS - CUT TO FIT YOUR CABINET!!!!
4 – 1x2 @ 15 ¾” (slide supports)
6 – 1x6 @ 19 ½”
6 – 1x6 @ 17”

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Kreg Jig
Drill
Circular Saw
Table Saw
Brad Nailer
Power Sander
Level
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

You’ll probably want shelves, so go ahead and get the extra sheet of plywood, and just have all the plywood ripped into 15 ¾” wide strips, referred to as 1x16s throughout this plan. BUT if you don’t want shelves, or have some scraps to use up, here’s how you can get all the pieces on a single sheet.

Step 2

Note: Back face frame does not have the middle drawer dividers (2x2 @ 22”)

Step 3

You'll want to build your doors now to fit the frame. Trust me on this one, lining up 11 boards and getting them all square is going to be a trick. Use the frame to help you build the door faces now.

On second thought – I’d recommend a 1x3 here on the back but a 1x2 will do the trick. Just a little more to bite into.

Once your doors are done, you can put aside.

TIP: Test your drawer face boards for fit at this step too - everything is easier to do when your frame is laying flat down.

Step 4

Now connect the two frames. Use glue and screws and check for square.

Step 5

Step 6

And then sides. Check everything for square here.

Step 7

And then add the dividers. Keep dividers flush to inside compartment.

Step 8

These guys are for attaching your drawer slides to later on. They only go on the outer compartments, and are not needed on middle compartment.

Step 9

You'll need to build three drawers. A note on drawers - build to suit the finished opening of your cabinet and your drawer slides. The measurements I give are for a perfect build with perfect boards for drawer slides that use 1/2" space. Build to suit your cabinet for best fit.

Step 10

Install the drawers so they are inset 3/4" on the front to allow for the drawer faces. They are nice deep drawers!

Step 11

And then attach the drawer faces to front. Keep an even 1/8" gap around all sides of drawer faces.

Step 12

And finally add the top!

Step 13

You can also add shelves, either fixed or with shelf pins.

And then if you want to put a back on, simply cut a piece of 1/4" plywood to the overall back size minus 1/2" and nail and glue on.

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.

Comments

birdsandsoap

Mon, 10/01/2012 - 15:29

Talk about taking advantage of those "nesting" instincts! This turned out beautiful. I love the pulls and the illusion of all those drawers. Such a timeless piece. Well done! I was planning on building a dresser and painting it white, but you are lulling me over to the "dark side" with your beautifully stained finish!

spiceylg

Tue, 10/02/2012 - 07:39

What a beautiful build and 9 months pregnant? Holy moly, that's impressive!

bhoppy

Tue, 10/02/2012 - 08:21

This turned out absolutely gorgous! Never underestimate the power of nesting instincts:-)

Kate (not verified)

Tue, 10/02/2012 - 08:35

I can't believe she did that 9 months pregnant! I'm only 5 and a half months and struggling just to finish my simple changing table (I found I just couldn't work on it as long every night as I'm used to). It looks gorgeous, and I love the plans!

Mindy (not verified)

Wed, 10/10/2012 - 18:36

Do you think this could be revamped with drop fronts instead of drawers to hide tv components?

Gloria (not verified)

Fri, 12/07/2012 - 14:26

My daughter loves this chest. My husband is making it for her for Christmas but we cannot read the measurements that are with the photos. I cannot find wnywhere to make them bigger to see the numbers. Do you have a suffstion>

Gloria (not verified)

Fri, 12/07/2012 - 14:34

My daughter loves this console. My husband is building it for her for Christmas. We cannot read the dimensions that are on the photos. Any suggestions.

Gloria (not verified)

Fri, 12/07/2012 - 14:39

My daughter loves this console. My husband is building it for her for Christmas. We cannot read the dimensions on the photos. Any suggestions

leeannraye

Tue, 02/09/2016 - 18:25

Can someone please direct me to the type of hinges to use? I bought some inset hinges but they don't appear to work. I've never felt so confused about hinges. 

CassieM

Tue, 01/12/2021 - 08:24

For those of you who have made this, where did you get hinges and what kind? I can’t find inset face frame hidden hinges that work.

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.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!