Shaker Style Bedside Table Plans: Build a Classic Piece with Timeless Design

Well now, if you’re lookin’ to build yourself one of them fancy Shaker-style bedside tables, I reckon you’ve come to the right place. You know, them Shaker folks, they sure knew how to make things last. Simple, yet sturdy. If you want a table that ain’t gonna fall apart the minute you set a cup on it, this here’s the way to go. So, let’s get right to it—don’t need to be no fancy woodworker to get this done, just a little patience and some elbow grease.

Now, I ain’t got no fancy saws like them city folks, but I’ll tell ya what, with a good sharp hand saw, a hammer, and some nails, you can make you one of these tables that’ll stand proud in your bedroom. You’ll need some good, solid wood. Pine’s a good one if you ask me, cheap and sturdy. You don’t need to go all fancy like with them hardwoods; just stick with somethin’ that’ll do the job.

Materials Needed:

• 4 legs – tapered ones, if you want it to look all proper-like.
• 1 top – could be a solid piece or you can make it from a couple of planks.
• 2 side panels – nice and straight, just cut ‘em to size.
• 1 bottom shelf – gives it that extra stability, you know.
• Some screws and wood glue – don’t forget the glue, that’ll hold it together good.
• Finish – some varnish or oil, depends on how shiny you want it.

Now, first thing you gotta do is get your legs cut to the right length. You want ’em nice and even, not too long and not too short. The Shakers always had that leg thing figured out, tapering down from the top so it don’t look too bulky. You can buy pre-tapered legs if you want, but you can also just do it yourself with a hand plane. Don’t need to make it too fancy, just smooth out the edges so they look nice.

Next, you’ll be working on the sides and the top. You gotta make sure the sides are straight, no warps or bends. And the top, well, you just measure it out to match how big you want the table. Shaker tables usually have that square or rectangular top, nothin’ too wild. Once you got your pieces cut, go ahead and start putting it all together. Don’t rush it—take your time, make sure everything fits just right.

When it comes to putting them legs on, that’s where you gotta be a little careful. Shaker tables usually have a strong joint, so don’t skimp on the wood glue, and make sure them screws go in real nice and tight. You can use corner braces if you feel like it’ll help, but I reckon a good, strong joint will do just fine.

Now, once you got the frame all set, you can add the bottom shelf. This gives it that solid feel, you know? It ain’t just about looks, it’s about strength. The Shakers were all about practicality—something that lasts. Once you’ve got it all put together, it’s time to smooth down the rough edges with some sandpaper. You don’t want nobody catching their hands on sharp corners.

And then, it’s finishin’ time. You can stain it if you want, or just slap on some clear varnish. The Shakers didn’t go for all them bright colors, but a good coat of clear finish’ll keep the wood lookin’ nice and protected. Ain’t no harm in adding a little shine to it, either.

And that’s it! You’ve built yourself a Shaker-style bedside table. Simple as that. It might take a day or two, but in the end, you’ll have something real sturdy to set your lamp and book on at night. Ain’t no better feelin’ than sittin’ back and admirin’ the work you done with your own two hands.

Now, I know it don’t take much to make a table, but don’t be thinkin’ this kind of work is easy. It takes time and patience. But when you get it done, you’ll feel like you’ve done somethin’ real worthwhile. And when them folks come over and see your table, they’ll be impressed. You can tell ‘em you did it yourself. Ain’t that somethin’?

Tags：[Shaker style, bedside table, woodworking, DIY furniture, simple furniture, woodwork plans, bedside table plans, Shaker furniture, furniture design, wooden table]