How to Make a Wall-Mounted Nightstand
Save space in a small bedroom with this DIY nightstand. Before you begin, make sure you have all the materials on the supply list.
Supplies Needed:
3/4 x 24 x 48-inch plywood(2) 1 x 12 x 96-inch boardsTable sawKreg JigOrbital sanderWood glueClampsDrill and bits1-1/4-inch pocket screwsPaint or stain, if desiredPin nailer1-1/4-inch pin nailsPocket hole plugs
Cut List:
Frame top and bottom: (2) 3/4 x 11-1/4 x 20-inchesFrame sides: (2) 3/4 x 11-1/4 x 18-1/2-inchesBack: 3/4 x 18-1/2 x 18-1/2-inchesPhone caddy bottom: 3/4 x 10-1/2 x 10-3/4-inchesPhone caddy side: 3/4 x 10-1/2 x 6-inches
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start this easy furniture project in the morning and it’ll be ready to install before you go back to bed!
Step 1: Make Pocket Holes
Before you begin, use a table saw to cut all boards to size according to the cut list above. Use a Kreg Jig to cut three pocket holes 1-1/2-inches in from both ends of the frame sides. The phone caddy side board should have two pocket holes along each long edge. The phone caddy bottom should have two pocket holes along one 10-1/2-inch side. Once you’ve made all of the pocket holes, use an orbital sander to sand all pieces smooth.
Step 2: Assemble Frame
To begin building the DIY nightstand, assemble the outer frame first. Place the frame top, bottom, and sides in a rectangular formation, butting the joints. The pocket holes should face the inside of the build. Glue and clamp until the glue dries. Drill through each pre-drilled pocket hole with 1-1/4-inch pocket screws.
Step 3: Build Phone Caddy
Next, you will assemble the phone caddy. Align the bottom and side boards of the phone caddy in an L shape, butting the joints. They should join along the 10-1/2-inch edges. Glue and let dry, then secure with 1-1/4-inch pocket screws. Attach the phone caddy to the frame with glue and 1-1/4-inch pocket screws. Make sure the front edges are flush with the box. If desired, drill a hole through the side of the box for charging cords to go through.
Step 4: Attach Back
Once the caddy is attached to the frame, flip the nightstand over so the front (where the phone caddy is flush to the frame) is facing down. Place the plywood back in the frame. It should sit on the back of the phone caddy and be flush with the back of the frame. Attach back with pin nails. Editor’s Tip: If you want the back of the nightstand to be an accent color, paint the back board before attaching.
Step 5: Fill Holes and Finish
Plug pocket holes with Kreg pocket hole plugs and sand smooth until flush with nightstand. Paint, seal, or stain, if desired.
