Drawer Making & Fitting                      

Jim Budlong

Drawers are the first place many of us look when we approach and experience a piece of fine furniture. Hand cut dovetail joinery not only contributes to the longevity of a piece but provides the maker opportunity play with the size, spacing and shape. All of which relate the maker’s intensions and contribute to the feel of the piece of furniture. A drawer nicely fit with a smooth run is as much a joy in function as it is to experience.  

“When we have a fine drawer that is at home in a piece, just as fine, then we have done a good job...” James Krenov 

Students will have a chance to practice their skills in this one-week, drawer making class. Beginning with pre-existing drawer pockets, participants will first make templates, which accurately describe their drawer runs.  These drawer pockets have been constructed with a slight taper, being just slightly narrower at the front. Using their templates as a reference for size, students will construct their drawers using traditional hand-cut dovetails. 

Sensitivity and attention is a must while carefully fitting their drawers into the pockets. A few strategic plane strokes may be all it takes to achieve that ultimate fit. When done correctly, these drawers should slightly snug up or stiffen as they are pulled out to the end of their run. As most who have experienced this sensation know, between good joinery and a good fit – it’s a great feeling!