Julia Nightstand

Difficulty
Advanced
| Print this plan

Build a pretty nightstand! Free plans!

We have a really amazing plan today for you! You are going to love it! Especially if you have a little girl that likes pretty things! 

But before we get to this amazing plan, something else super amazing is happening today.

___________________________________

Tonight, I am talking to Darren Rowse of Problogger!  And I wanted to invite you personally to be part of the conversation. You can submit questions to ask to! I'd love to have questions from you.


The webinar is by reservation only, so please sign up right now - seats are limited and filling up fast.  It would mean tons to me if you joined us!  Hope to see you then!

________________________________

And I did promise you a super amazing plan today - didn't I? 

I worked with my friend Whitney who also made the beautiful platform beds and so cute headboards to make this nightstand.  It's all in the details and pretty pink paint for this one!

From Whitney:

These were so fun to make!  I had both done in just a couple hours.  I love how much character they add to the room and the price tag is the best part! My girls love them too... Especially the pink! ;-) 

Make sure you stop over and visit Whitney at Shanty2Chic for lots more photos and details!

Dimensions
Dimensions are shown above.

Preparation

Shopping List

2 – 1x2 @ 8 feet long
1 – 1x12 @ 8 feet long
1 – 1x3 @ 8 feet long
1 – 2x2 @ 8 feet long
1 – 1x4 @ 2 feet long
1 – ¼ sheet ¼” plywood

Common Materials
1 1/4 inch finish nails
primer
paint
paint brush
Cut List

2 – 1x2 @ 11 ¼”
2 – 1x3 @ 11 ¼”
2 – 1x12 @ 22 ½”
4 – 2x2 @ 23 ¼”
1 – 1x12 @ 13”
5 – 1x2 @ 13”
2 – 1x2 @ 16”
1 – 1x12 @ 16”
2 – 1x4 @ 3 ½” (decorative moulding)
Edge Moulding is cut to fit
1 – ¼” plywood@ 16” x 23 ¼”
DRAWER
2 – 1x3 @ 11 ¼”
2 – 1x3 @ 13 ½”
1 – ¼” plywood @ 12 ¾” x 13 ½”
1 – 1x4 @ 12 ¾” (false face)
2 – 1x2 @ 13 ½” (drawer slides)

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Kreg Jig
Drill
Jigsaw
Brad Nailer
Power Sander
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

Start by just building the two sides. I recommend PHs for this plan, so drill those first as shown in the diagram above for attaching legs. Use 3/4" PH settings.

Step 2

Then attach legs with 1 1/4" PH screws and glue, flush to top. If you are NOT using the decorative legs, then cut your legs another couple of inches longer instead.

Step 3

Build your bottom shelf first and then attach to base.

Step 4

And then add top supports.

Step 5

Step 6

Now your drawer. This drawer just slides on wooden guides, so make 1/8" to 1/4" less in overall width than opening.

Step 7

These are those drawer guides I was talking about. Make sure you nail them in level. TIP - Rub candle wax over the tops so the drawer slides smoothly.

Remember to inset drawer guides 3/4".

Step 8

Place drawer in cabinet and check to make sure it slides easily.

Step 9

Now add your drawer face. It will cover up any problems in the drawer :)

Step 10

And then the bottom trim ....

Step 11

And finally the cute little cutouts that really make this nightstand charming.

Step 12

I love adding moulding around the top edges. Really give a finishing touch!

Step 13

And then add the legs!

Step 14

And finally the back!

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

Beth Baker (not verified)

Tue, 05/08/2012 - 22:44

Hi Ana,

I listened to your webinar tonight, it was very inspiring. Thank you for taking the time to speak about blogging and your furniture projects. My main interest is the furniture plans. I run a nonprofit that furnishes and decorates transitional homeless shelters for woman and children using donated furnishings. I have been thinking, for sometime, about building our own furniture. Your have inspired me to start doing so, and I plan on starting with the Julia night stand. We are always in need on night stands, end tables and coffee tables, among other things.

Thanks for the spark you created in me.

Sincerely,
Beth Baker

[email protected] (not verified)

Wed, 05/09/2012 - 09:51

TCPDF ERROR: [Image] Unable to get image: file:///home/anawhite/public_html/dev/acquia-drupal-1.2.33/sites/default/files/ana-white-darren-rowse-podc.jpg?1336504590

[email protected] (not verified)

Thu, 05/24/2012 - 09:10

TCPDF ERROR: [Image] Unable to get image: file:///home/anawhite/public_html/dev/acquia-drupal-1.2.33/sites/default/files/ana-white-darren-rowse-podc.jpg?1336504590

mcondon

Sun, 10/02/2016 - 10:39

We like the decorative feet you used and would like to incorporate those on the nightstands I am building for our grandaughters.  Can you recommend a source.  Hopefully on-line as we are a long ways from any big stores.

This is my first pocket hole project.....Love it!  And thanks for the great plans.

Michael

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!