DIY Mahogany Nightstand

Design

• A mahogany nightstand can be as simple or decorated as preferred. The wood has a rich grain that carries elegance by itself, so little adornment is necessary to achieve a nice look. It is a hard wood that lends well to ornate carving.

  The nightstand will have four legs and possibly a drawer. A drawer is more difficult to put together than a simple four-legged platform, but may also prove more useful.

  Draw designs in advance to avoid making mistakes. Mahogany is an expensive wood and mistakes can be costly.

Assembly

• Cut the pieces of mahogany carefully with a table saw. Finer work can be done with a hand saw. Some home improvement stores offer to cut wood for free, so consider asking about this option.

  Making dovetail joints is a more difficult process, but one that is more durable. Small nails can fasten the pieces together. Apply a small amount of wood glue along the edge of the pieces to be bonded, clamp them together and drive nails through the joint to get a strong bond. Wipe away excess glue as it will be hard to remove when it dries.

Finishing

• The finishing of mahogany can vary based on taste. Sanding is certainly necessary. Go over the nightstand with a rough-grit sandpaper, then switch to finer and finer grits to achieve the smoothest finish. Apply multiple coats of lacquer, shellac or polyurethane in the color of choice. Mahogany typically works well with darker colors. The type of stain depends on how much the budget can afford and what level of durability is needed.

Additions

• A mahogany nightstand goes best with another nightstand. It is nice to have two symmetrical nightstands on either side of the bed. Additional pieces of mahogany furniture and dark upholstery and carpet choices match well. Consider building more mahogany furniture or redesigning the room to match this dark, classic wood.