DIY Drawer Dividers

Updated: Feb. 07, 2023

Try this inexpensive way to organize a messy drawer

drawer dividersFamily Handyman
Organize drawers with simple dividers. Use off-the-shelf trim to custom make a system to fit any drawer in an hour.

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Install DIY drawer dividers

Install dentil molding

Glue dentil molding around the inside of the drawer and slip in dividers. Use additional molding to divide the space further.

Close-up of dentil molding

Dentil molding is available at most home centers and lumber yards.

Here’s a fast, inexpensive way to organize a messy drawer.

Cut standard dentil molding the width and length of your drawer, aligning the dentil slots on opposite sides. Glue or brad-nail the strips into place—one strip for dividers up to 2 in., two strips for larger dividers. For drawer dividers, use oak or pine mull strip (sometimes called lattice) or rip 1/4-in. plywood.

Dentil molding and 1/4-in.-thick mull strip are available at most home centers and lumberyards for roughly $1 per foot each (the system we made cost $30). Sand the mull strip smooth with fine sandpaper, then wipe off all the dust. The wood can be left unfinished, or finished before it’s installed in the drawer.

Required Tools for this Drawer Dividers Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

  • Brad nail gun
  • Hot melt glue gun
  • Miter saw

Required Materials for this Drawer Dividers Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

  • Dentil molding
  • Mull strip