Saturday Morning Workshop: How To Build a Floating Shelf with Secret Drawer
Updated: Sep. 18, 2021Learn how to make this sleek, modern floating shelf with a secret hiding place for your valuables.
Time A few hours
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$20-50
Introduction
Follow the step-by-step plans, video tutorial and tech art below to make this simple floating shelf that includes a hidden drawer for secret storage.Tools Required
- Clamps
- Drill
- Miter saw
- Nail gun
- Table saw
- Utility knife
Materials Required
- 1-1/2-in. 18-gauge brad nails
- 2’x4’ 1/4” Plywood
- 3” Washer-head screws
- 8’ 1x3 Board
- 8’ 1x4 Board
- Self-adhesive veneer
- Wood glue
Hidden Drawer Cutting List
Hidden Drawer Tech Art
Project step-by-step (7)
Rip the 1×4
Rip the 1×4 board to 2-7/8 in. for the shelf sides and front. This will give you about 1/8 in. tolerance for the drawer section of the build and let it slide nicely.
Cut the Plywood to Size
Cut the 1/4-in. plywood on the table saw to (1) 11-1/4 in. x 22-3/8 in. for the drawer and (2) 12 in. x 24 in. for the shelf.
Crosscut the 1×3 and 1×4 Boards
Crosscut the pine boards to size, according to the cutting list above, on the miter saw. Make sure to double-check your measurements!
Assemble the Drawer
Fasten the drawer together using glue and 2 in. 18-gauge brad nails.
Assemble the Shelf
Assemble the shelf with glue and 2 in. 18-gauge brad nails.
Rough Cut the Veneer
Set the drawer on top of the veneer and cut the veneer to a rough size
Apply the Veneer and Cut to Size
Stick on the veneer and cut along the edges of the drawer with a utility knife to the correct size. Lightly sand the corners and edges with a high-grit sandpaper to get the veneer to match.
If you want to learn more about some veneer techniques, check out this article.
