Nightstand

Well, I decided to share my first more complicated project. I have done some basic end tables and coffee tables before that turned out ok but this was my first attempt at something a little more complex. My son needed a nightsand so I decided to try something myself. I doodled some plans—sort of shaker style—and came up with this. I made a jig from plywood to taper the legs on the table saw (first time I have done this). The drawer also has dovetail joints (first time) using one of those cheap E-Z jigs from home depot. Actually worked out well, altough I can tell I want a real dovetail jig but that will have to wait unti I have $$$. Cut corners with the other joints. Its all pocket hole joinery but everthing is hidden. I also want to get one of those Leigh FMT jigs but too much $$$ for me right now. Used a wooden drawer slide in the middle with rails on either side. Wood is poplar. I feared using anything more expensive since this was my first crack at something like this. Stain is red mahagony. Poplar took it reasonably well. I was worried it might be a little blotchy or brown. I finished it in oil-based urethane though not shown here.

This only makes we want to explore more. Woodworking is my diversion from the worklife and a means of meditation. Its good stuff though I think my wife fears she will turn into a woodshop widow.