1. What Is Bedside Table Woodworking?
Bedside table woodworking refers to the process of designing, building, and finishing bedside tables using various woodworking tools and materials. It’s one of the most popular beginner-to-intermediate woodworking projects because it combines creativity, functionality, and craftsmanship.
A bedside table (also called a nightstand) is a small piece of furniture placed beside the bed, often used for storing personal items like lamps, books, alarm clocks, or glasses. Building one yourself allows for custom designs, perfect sizing, and quality finishes that match your room decor.
Woodworkers love this project because it offers a balance between simplicity and challenge — you can make a basic table in a few hours or craft a detailed, custom-made piece with drawers, shelves, or decorative joinery.
2. Choosing the Right Wood for Your Bedside Table
The first and most important step in bedside table woodworking is selecting the right type of wood. Your choice will determine the table’s strength, durability, and overall appearance.
Common types of wood for bedside tables include:
- Pine: Affordable and easy to work with; ideal for beginners.
- Oak: Strong, durable, and has a beautiful grain pattern.
- Walnut: Dark, elegant wood perfect for a premium finish.
- Birch: Smooth texture, great for painting or staining.
- Maple: Hard and resistant, ideal for heavy-use furniture.
- Cherry: Known for its reddish tone that darkens beautifully with age.
For a rustic or farmhouse style, use reclaimed wood or pallet wood — it adds character and sustainability to your project.
Before starting, ensure your wood is properly dried and planed. Moist or uneven boards can warp or split after assembly.
3. Essential Tools and Materials for Woodworking
To create a strong and stylish bedside table, you’ll need a few essential woodworking tools and materials. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIYer, having the right equipment makes a big difference in quality and precision.
Basic Tools:
- Measuring tape and square – for accurate dimensions.
- Saw (hand saw or table saw) – to cut wood pieces.
- Power drill and bits – for screw holes and joinery.
- Clamps – to hold parts in place during gluing.
- Sandpaper or orbital sander – for smooth surfaces.
- Wood glue – to bond joints securely.
Optional Tools:
- Router: For decorative edges or grooves.
- Chisels: For fine detailing or traditional joinery.
- Nail gun or hammer: For quick assembly.
Materials:
- Wood boards (based on your design)
- Screws and nails
- Drawer slides (if you plan to add drawers)
- Paint, wood stain, or polyurethane finish
Proper tools and good-quality materials ensure a clean finish, stability, and long-lasting furniture.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Bedside Table
Building a bedside table from scratch is easier than it looks when you follow a clear plan. Here’s a simple step-by-step woodworking guide for beginners:
Step 1: Plan Your Design
Sketch your design or use a free woodworking plan online. Standard bedside tables are 24–28 inches high, 18–24 inches wide, and 16–20 inches deep. Adjust the size to match your bed height.
Step 2: Cut the Wood
Use your measurements to cut the wood for the top, legs, sides, and shelf or drawer sections. Mark all cuts carefully for perfect alignment.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Attach the legs to the tabletop using screws and wood glue. Use clamps to hold everything square as the glue sets.
Step 4: Add Shelves or Drawers
Depending on your design, add a lower shelf for storage or install drawer boxes with slides. Make sure drawers glide smoothly.
Step 5: Sand and Finish
Sand all surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper (180–220 grit) to remove rough edges and imperfections. Apply your choice of paint, wood stain, or clear varnish for protection and style.
Step 6: Final Assembly
Attach drawer knobs, handles, or decorative trims. Inspect all joints for stability and make sure the table stands evenly.
With patience and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful, handcrafted bedside table that lasts for years.
5. Design Ideas for Custom Bedside Tables
Bedside table woodworking offers endless creative possibilities. You can design your table to match your room style, wood preference, and functional needs.
Here are some popular design ideas:
- Rustic Bedside Table: Made with reclaimed wood and natural finishes.
- Modern Minimalist: Smooth edges, light colors, and sleek handles.
- Scandinavian Style: Simple lines, light wood, and practical design.
- Industrial Look: Combine metal legs with wood for a modern twist.
- Floating Bedside Table: Mounted on the wall for a clean, space-saving design.
- Two-Tier Table: Add a lower shelf for books or storage baskets.
You can personalize your table with engraved details, custom handles, or colored finishes. Adding soft-close drawers or USB charging ports gives a modern, functional touch.
Experimenting with designs is what makes woodworking rewarding — every project becomes a reflection of your style and creativity.
6. Tips for Beginners and Safety Precautions
If you’re new to bedside table woodworking, start simple and focus on mastering the basics before attempting advanced designs. Safety and accuracy are key to successful woodworking.
Tips for Beginners:
- Always measure twice and cut once.
- Keep your workspace clean and organized.
- Use sharp tools for cleaner cuts and safer handling.
- Practice on scrap wood before working on your main piece.
- Choose easy-to-work woods like pine or poplar for your first project.
Safety Precautions:
- Wear safety glasses and ear protection when using power tools.
- Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when applying finishes.
- Keep fingers away from saw blades and drill bits.
- Unplug tools when changing blades or bits.
Following safety rules ensures a smooth and enjoyable woodworking experience, letting you focus on creativity instead of mistakes or injuries.
Conclusion
Bedside table woodworking is a rewarding and practical DIY project that blends creativity, craftsmanship, and functionality. By choosing the right materials, tools, and design, you can build a unique table that complements your room perfectly.
Whether you’re making a simple nightstand or a stylish designer piece, woodworking gives you the freedom to customize, learn new skills, and create furniture that lasts a lifetime.
With a bit of patience and care, your handmade bedside table will not only be useful — it will be a statement of your talent and dedication to the craft.
FAQs
1. What type of wood is best for a bedside table?
Oak, pine, walnut, and maple are excellent options, depending on your style and budget.
2. How long does it take to build a bedside table?
A simple design can take 4–6 hours, while complex versions with drawers may take a weekend.
3. Do I need expensive tools?
No, basic hand tools like a saw, drill, and sander are enough for beginner projects.
4. Should I paint or stain my bedside table?
Paint gives a modern finish, while stain enhances the natural wood grain.
5. Can beginners make a bedside table?
Absolutely! It’s one of the best beginner woodworking projects to start with.
