Build Modern Nightstands: Step-by-Step DIY Plans

Upgrading to a larger bed meant we needed smaller bedside tables to fit the space, so we designed a straightforward plan for DIY nightstands that fit perfectly. The build uses a single primary material — butcher block counter tops — and requires only a few simple cuts and basic tools, making this a project that most DIYers can tackle.

Butcher block gives a modern, chunky look and creates very sturdy nightstands without complicated joinery, shelves supports, or sliding drawers. The simple construction keeps the pieces clean and functional.

Why Build Custom Nightstands?

When we brought a king bed into our bedroom we had to shift it slightly off-center to allow the closet doors to open properly. The shift was only a couple of inches, but it meant store-bought, matching nightstands wouldn’t fit the layout exactly. Rather than settle for mismatched or oversized pieces, we decided to design nightstands to our exact measurements so they would fit the room and give us the look we wanted.

See Our DIY Nightstands On Video

We also filmed a short video that shows the finished nightstands in the room, explains why we needed two different sizes, and demonstrates how the layout preserves closet access. Watching the clip makes the project and the room layout easier to understand.

Note: You can also watch the video on YouTube.

Saving Money by Building Your Own

Many store-bought modern wood nightstands can be surprisingly expensive, and buying two of them would add up. By cutting both nightstands from a single butcher block slab and finishing them with oil, both pieces together cost us about $310 in materials — roughly $155 per nightstand — which is far less than many comparable retail options.

Materials & Tools Needed

We chose a butcher block island (the wider slab) for a solid, chunky look. You can use a different wood if you prefer the same plan will work. Here’s what we used:

• Butcher block counter (we used the island size)
• Circular saw
• Kreg pocket hole jig
• 2″ pocket hole screws
• Power drill
• Clamp (a pocket-hole clamp is handy)
• Power sander and medium/high grit sandpaper
• Cutting board oil or similar food-safe oil
• Measuring tape, painter’s tape, pen/pencil
• Rag or paper towels

Step 1: Plan Your Build

Butcher block slabs are not cheap, so we planned carefully to get two nightstands from one island slab (72″ x 39″). We sketched layouts and measured to avoid waste. We considered a design with an extra bottom shelf but decided the simpler profile — top, two sides (legs), and a single shelf — was lighter, cleaner, and easier to clean under.

Step 2: Cut the Butcher Block to Size

We used a circular saw to slice the island slab into two 18″ wide slabs for 18″ deep nightstands. You could cut the slab in half for two 19.5″ slabs, but that depth would have interfered with our closet door. After the initial cuts, each slab was measured and cut into four pieces: top, two side legs, and a shelf. We left the shelf for the final cut to ensure a tight fit after assembly.

We applied painter’s tape along the cut line to prevent tear-out and to give a clean guide to cut along. Safety note: use eye protection and take care when cutting large slabs.

Step 3: Label Your Pieces

After cutting, we dry-fit the pieces, chose which faces would show, and marked orientation with painter’s tape. This kept everything consistent when drilling pocket holes and assembling.

Step 4: Drill Pocket Holes in the Legs

We used a Kreg pocket hole jig to drill three pocket holes into the inside face of each leg so the legs could be screwed up into the top without visible fasteners on the top surface. Drilling all the pocket holes in one session saves time switching drill settings.

Step 5: Clamp & Screw the Legs to the Top

With the top upside down, we clamped a leg in place and drove 2″ pocket hole screws from the inside of the leg into the top. Using a pocket-hole clamp keeps the pieces from shifting while you fasten them. Repeat on the other side and for the second nightstand.

Step 6: Fit and Attach the Shelf

After assembling the top and legs, we measured for the shelf, cut it for a snug fit, and drilled pocket holes on the underside of each end. Laying the nightstand on its back made it easy to set the shelf in place and screw it in. We chose a 5″ gap from the top which visually balances the piece and keeps the shelf functional.

Step 7: Sand the Edges

We rounded the exposed corners and cut edges with medium then fine grit sandpaper to remove sharpness and create a smooth finish. Wipe away sanding dust thoroughly before finishing.

Step 8: Seal the Butcher Block

We finished the nightstands with a single coat of cutting board oil. The oil darkens the wood slightly, enhances the grain, and seals the surface. Apply a small puddle, wipe it across the wood with a rag, and let it soak in. It will lighten as it dries. If you prefer a different color or sheen, a stain or sealer can be used instead.

Step 9: Let Dry & Enjoy

We let the oil cure for about a day before placing the nightstands beside the bed. They fit exactly as planned, look substantial, and provide practical surface and shelf space without overwhelming the room.

Storage and Use

We chose to keep the lower shelf mostly open rather than fill it with baskets. For us it feels cleaner and allows our robot vacuum to access corners easily. My wider nightstand holds books, chargers, a lamp, and small devices, while the narrower side uses a woven basket to contain small essentials and reduce visual clutter.

More Bedroom DIY Projects

If you enjoyed this project, we’ve documented other bedroom builds including hacked Ikea cabinets, built-in closet solutions, and a modern fireplace surround. These projects follow the same principle: thoughtful planning, simple joinery, and cost-effective materials can create custom pieces that fit your space and style.

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