Are you tired of bulky nightstands taking up precious floor space in your bedroom? A floating nightstand is the perfect solution for small bedrooms, modern decor, or anyone wanting a clean, minimalist look. This beginner-friendly project requires minimal tools and can be completed in just 2-3 hours.

Alt text: Modern wooden floating nightstand with drawer mounted on white bedroom wall

Why Choose a Floating Nightstand?

Floating nightstands offer several advantages over traditional bedside tables:

• Space-saving design perfect for small bedrooms
• Easy cleaning underneath with no legs to work around
• Modern aesthetic that works with any decor style
• Customizable height to match your bed perfectly
• Hidden storage keeps bedroom clutter-free

Materials and Tools Needed

Materials List:

• 1 piece of 1x8x24” pine board (for main shelf)
• 1 piece of 1x6x10” pine board (for drawer front and sides)
• 1 piece of 1x4x6” pine board (for drawer back)
• 1 piece of 1/4” plywood 8”x6” (for drawer bottom)
• 2 heavy-duty floating shelf brackets (rated for 30+ lbs)
• Wood screws (1¼” and 2”)
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
• Wood stain or paint of choice
• Drawer pulls (1)

Estimated Cost: $25-35

Alt text: All wood pieces, screws, brackets and tools arranged on workbench for floating nightstand project

Tools Required:

• Circular saw or miter saw
• Drill with bits
• Pocket hole jig (optional but recommended)
• Level
• Stud finder
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cut Your Wood to Size

Start by cutting all your pieces to the dimensions listed above. If you don’t have a saw, most home improvement stores will cut lumber for you.

Cut List:

• Main shelf: 24” x 7¼” x ¾”
• Drawer front: 8” x 5” x ¾”
• Drawer sides: 6” x 5” x ¾” (2 pieces)
• Drawer back: 6” x 4¼” x ¾”
• Drawer bottom: 8” x 6” x ¼”

Alt text: Five pieces of cut lumber arranged and labeled for floating nightstand construction

Step 2: Sand All Pieces

Sand all surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper, then finish with 220-grit for a smooth surface. Pay special attention to any rough edges from cutting.

Pro Tip: Always sand with the grain, not against it, to avoid scratches that will show through your finish.

Alt text: Hands using orbital sander on pine board pieces for floating nightstand

Step 3: Create the Drawer Box

Build the drawer first, as it needs to fit inside your main shelf.

1. Apply wood glue to the ends of your drawer sides
2. Attach the drawer front and back using 1¼” screws
3. Slide the plywood bottom into place and secure with small nails or brads
4. Check that your drawer is square by measuring diagonally - both measurements should be equal

Alt text: Partially assembled wooden drawer box with clamps holding pieces together

Step 4: Route the Main Shelf

Your main shelf needs a groove to hold the drawer. If you don’t have a router, you can create guides and use multiple passes with a circular saw set to shallow depth.

1. Mark the drawer opening on your main shelf (centered, 8” wide x 5” deep)
2. Route out the material carefully, leaving ¾” sides and back
3. Test fit your drawer - it should slide smoothly

Alt text: Router cutting rectangular groove in wooden board for drawer opening

Step 5: Install Floating Shelf Hardware

The key to a strong floating nightstand is proper mounting hardware.

1. Mark the stud locations on your wall using a stud finder
2. Install the wall-mounted brackets into at least one stud
3. Route matching grooves in the back of your main shelf for the brackets
4. Test fit the shelf on the brackets before finishing

Alt text: Person using drill to install heavy-duty floating shelf bracket into wall stud

Step 6: Apply Your Finish

Now for the fun part - making it look great!

1. Apply pre-stain wood conditioner (especially important for pine)
2. Apply your chosen stain or paint in thin, even coats
3. Allow proper drying time between coats
4. Finish with a protective topcoat for durability

Finish Options:

• Natural wood stain for warmth and grain visibility
• White paint for modern, clean appearance
• Black stain for dramatic contrast
• Clear polyurethane to showcase natural wood

Alt text: Brush applying dark wood stain to floating nightstand shelf

Step 7: Install Drawer Hardware

Once your finish is completely dry:

1. Mark the center point on your drawer front
2. Drill pilot holes for your drawer pull
3. Install the pull from the inside of the drawer
4. Test the drawer operation - it should slide smoothly

Alt text: Hands installing modern black drawer pull on wooden drawer front

Step 8: Final Assembly and Mounting

Time to put it all together:

1. Slide your finished drawer into the routed opening
2. Mount the main shelf onto your wall brackets
3. Use a level to ensure it’s perfectly straight
4. Test the weight capacity with a few books

Floating nightstand being mounted on bedroom wall next to bed

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Drawer sticks or won’t slide: Sand the drawer sides lightly or apply paste wax to the sliding surfaces.

Shelf isn’t level: Adjust the wall brackets slightly or use shims behind the shelf.

Visible bracket lines: Route the bracket channels slightly deeper, ensuring the shelf sits flush against the wall.

Customization Ideas

Make this project your own with these variations:

• Add LED strip lighting underneath for ambient lighting
• Install a charging station by drilling holes for cord management
• Create multiple compartments by adding interior dividers
• Use hardwood like oak or maple for a premium look
• Add a soft-close drawer slide for smooth operation

Alt text: Floating nightstand with warm LED strip lighting installed underneath

Maintenance Tips

Keep your floating nightstand looking great:

• Dust regularly with microfiber cloth
• Reapply topcoat annually in high-use areas
• Tighten bracket screws yearly
• Avoid overloading - keep weight under 25 lbs

Cost Breakdown

Conclusion

Building a floating nightstand is an excellent first woodworking project that delivers big visual impact with minimal skill required. The clean lines and space-saving design work in any bedroom style, from modern minimalist to rustic farmhouse.

This project typically takes beginners 2-3 hours to complete and costs under $35 in materials. The skills you’ll learn - measuring, cutting, sanding, and finishing - form the foundation for many other DIY furniture projects.

Alt text: Side by side comparison showing bedroom before and after installing floating nightstand

Ready to tackle your next DIY project? This floating nightstand pairs perfectly with a DIY floating desk or wall-mounted shelving system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What weight can this nightstand hold? A: When properly mounted to studs, this design supports 25-30 lbs safely.

Q: Can I use different wood types? A: Absolutely! Hardwoods like oak or maple work great but cost more. Plywood is a budget-friendly alternative.

Q: Do I need a router for this project? A: While helpful, you can create the drawer opening with careful circular saw cuts and a chisel for cleanup.

Q: How high should I mount it? A: Typically 24-27 inches from the floor, or level with your mattress top.

Share your build! Tag us on social media @nailithome with #DIYNightstand to show off your creation.