Build a bedside table by sizing it to your mattress height, then cutting, assembling, sanding, and finishing the parts — a project most DIYers finish in a weekend.
Get that right and the rest is straightforward framing, joinery, and finish.
What Size Should Your Bedside Table Be?
Some prefer slightly lower for aesthetics and easier reach.
Width and depth depend on your bed and room. Bed-size guidance varies by source:
- Single/twin beds: roughly 40–45 cm wide, or 17–20 inches
- Full/queen beds: 45–60 cm wide, or 21–28 inches
- King/Cal king beds: 55–65 cm wide, or 24–29 inches
In small rooms, keep proportions modest so the table never blocks walkways.
The Build Process, Step by Step
The core sequence: measure your mattress height, set your target table height, cut the top, sides, and any shelf or drawer parts to size, then assemble.
- Measure and mark your lumber before cutting anything.
- Cut the pieces — top, four legs or side panels, and any shelf or drawer components.
- Dry-fit the frame to check alignment before committing to glue.
- Drill pilot holes or pocket holes where you’ll drive screws; this prevents wood from splitting.
- Apply wood glue, clamp the frame, and fasten with screws.
- Sand edges smooth and round sharp corners — a bedroom piece gets bumped at night, and softened edges reduce injury risk.
- Finish the wood with paint, stain, wax, or waterborne polyurethane.
A good rule for the top: attach a solid-wood top with figure-8 fasteners or elongated screw holes rather than rigid screws. This lets the wood expand and contract with seasonal humidity instead of splitting.
Materials, Tools, and Smart Additions
You’ll need a cordless drill, pilot bits, clamps, a saw, sanding supplies, and a paintbrush. Pick up wood screws, wood glue, wood filler, primer, and your finish of choice, plus felt pads for the feet.
For drawers, leave enough internal clearance for slides and finger access.
If you’d rather buy than build, our roundup of tested bedside side tables covers ready-made options for every bed size.
| Build Stage | Key Detail | Common Mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring | Match table top to mattress height | Skipping mattress measurement |
| Cutting | All legs equal within 1/32 inch | Uneven legs cause wobble |
| Assembly | Pilot holes + glue + clamps | Skipping dry-fit, ending up out of square |
| Top attachment | Figure-8 fasteners for wood movement | Rigid screws split solid-wood tops |
| Finishing | Sand and round all edges | Sharp corners near the bed |
FAQs
How long does it take to build a nightstand?
Cutting and assembly take a few hours; the finish — especially paint or polyurethane with drying time between coats — accounts for most of the wait. Plan for two days if you want a durable, fully cured finish.
What wood should I use for a bedside table?
Can I build one without a table saw?
Yes. Have lumber cut to size at the hardware store, or use a circular saw with a straightedge guide. Pocket-hole joinery only needs a drill and a pocket-hole jig. Pre-cut panels and basic clamps keep the tool list short without sacrificing quality.
References & Sources
- Fine Woodworking. “Bedside Table Project Guide.” Details on joinery, wood movement, and finishing a nightstand.
- Kreg Tool. “Nightstand Build Plans.” Pocket-hole joinery steps and assembly sequence.
- Dimensions.com. “Bedside Tables & Nightstands.” Reference dimensions by bed size and common height ranges.