Construct Drawers and Pull-out Trays — Assemble Storage Units
Part of project
Under Stair Storage · Step 5 of 7
In this video
After all drawer and pull-out tray parts are cut to size, use a table saw to cut grooves for the bottom panels. This is typically done by first cutting a full kerf 1/8-inch groove, 1/4-inch up from the bottom edge of the side pieces. Then, adjust the fence and make another pass to widen the groove to accommodate a 1/4-inch plywood bottom. To allow for easy insertion of the bottom panel after assembly, raise the blade and cut off the bottom portion of the back pieces of the drawers and trays. Assemble the pull-out trays and drawers using wood glue and brad nails for the trays, and pocket screws for the drawers (especially for the front and back pieces, as these will have false fronts). Assemble trays upside down to ensure grooves are perfectly aligned. Finally, slide the 1/4-inch plywood bottom panels into the grooves and secure them to the back of each drawer/tray with panhead screws, creating a solid and quickly built storage unit.
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FAQs
The project summary lists an estimated time of 4 minutes, but it seems more complex. How long should I realistically expect this project to take?
The 4-minute estimate is likely a typo. Given the design, cutting of plywood, assembly of units, and installation, this intermediate project typically requires several hours to a full weekend, depending on your experience and the complexity of your design. Plan for at least 8-16 hours of work spread across multiple sessions.
What are the most important safety precautions I should take when building under-stair storage units?
Always wear safety glasses when operating cutting tools to protect your eyes from flying debris. Use gloves to prevent splinters, and ensure your work area is well-ventilated if using adhesives or finishes. When installing, securely anchor the units to the studs or solid framing to prevent tipping.
What kind of wood is best for these storage units, and how can I estimate material costs?
For durability and a good finish, 3/4 inch birch plywood, as listed in the materials, is an excellent choice. You'll need to precisely measure your under-stair cavity to calculate the exact amount of plywood, drawer slides, and caster wheels required. Expect material costs to vary, but budget a few hundred dollars depending on hardware quality and wood choice.
How do I accurately measure and design the storage units to fit my unique under-stair space, considering the slope?
Start by measuring the height, width, and depth of your stair cavity at multiple points, as walls are rarely perfectly square. Account for the stair's slope by creating a template from cardboard before cutting your final materials, ensuring your units will slide in and out smoothly without catching.
Construct Drawers and Pull-out Trays — Assemble Storage Units
Part of project
Under Stair Storage · Step 5 of 7
In this video
After all drawer and pull-out tray parts are cut to size, use a table saw to cut grooves for the bottom panels. This is typically done by first cutting a full kerf 1/8-inch groove, 1/4-inch up from the bottom edge of the side pieces. Then, adjust the fence and make another pass to widen the groove to accommodate a 1/4-inch plywood bottom. To allow for easy insertion of the bottom panel after assembly, raise the blade and cut off the bottom portion of the back pieces of the drawers and trays. Assemble the pull-out trays and drawers using wood glue and brad nails for the trays, and pocket screws for the drawers (especially for the front and back pieces, as these will have false fronts). Assemble trays upside down to ensure grooves are perfectly aligned. Finally, slide the 1/4-inch plywood bottom panels into the grooves and secure them to the back of each drawer/tray with panhead screws, creating a solid and quickly built storage unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
The project summary lists an estimated time of 4 minutes, but it seems more complex. How long should I realistically expect this project to take?
The 4-minute estimate is likely a typo. Given the design, cutting of plywood, assembly of units, and installation, this intermediate project typically requires several hours to a full weekend, depending on your experience and the complexity of your design. Plan for at least 8-16 hours of work spread across multiple sessions.
What are the most important safety precautions I should take when building under-stair storage units?
Always wear safety glasses when operating cutting tools to protect your eyes from flying debris. Use gloves to prevent splinters, and ensure your work area is well-ventilated if using adhesives or finishes. When installing, securely anchor the units to the studs or solid framing to prevent tipping.
What kind of wood is best for these storage units, and how can I estimate material costs?
For durability and a good finish, 3/4 inch birch plywood, as listed in the materials, is an excellent choice. You'll need to precisely measure your under-stair cavity to calculate the exact amount of plywood, drawer slides, and caster wheels required. Expect material costs to vary, but budget a few hundred dollars depending on hardware quality and wood choice.
How do I accurately measure and design the storage units to fit my unique under-stair space, considering the slope?
Start by measuring the height, width, and depth of your stair cavity at multiple points, as walls are rarely perfectly square. Account for the stair's slope by creating a template from cardboard before cutting your final materials, ensuring your units will slide in and out smoothly without catching.