How to Build a Bar From an Old Dresser

Select a large wooden dresser; the best type to use would have three columns of drawers that can easily be turned into cabinets. Once you have selected your dresser, remove all the drawers and set them aside.

Remove the drawer slides from the center column of drawers by loosening the screws with a screwdriver. Use a hack saw to cut through the wooden drawer dividers, leaving an open space in the center of the dresser. This space will be used to accommodate the plumbing for your wet-bar sink.

Measure the length and width of your sink and mark out the dimensions in pencil on the top of the dresser, centered over the middle column of drawers. Use a hacksaw to cut out a hole in the top just large enough for the body of the sink; the lip of the sink should rest on top of the dresser.

Place the sink in the cut-out and install the plumbing according to the manufacturer's directions. You will need to cut holes through the back or bottom of the dresser using your hacksaw to connect the pipes to the existing plumbing.

Measure the opening in the center front of the dresser and cut a piece of 1/2-inch hardwood that is 3/4 inch larger on all four sides to be used as a cabinet door front. If possible, use the same type of wood as the dresser. Paint or stain the wood to match the dresser or sand down the entire surface of the dresser and repaint or re-stain it so that all the surfaces match.

Attach the piece of wood over the opening on the front of the dresser using two metal hinges; screw half of each hinge onto the back side of the wood and the other half inside the dresser. Position the hinges about 2 inches from the top and bottom of the piece of wood.

Slide the drawers back into their slots in the outer two columns and use them to store liquor bottles, cocktail napkins and other bar accessories. You may also utilize the open space in the cabinet under the sink to store liquor bottles upright.

If you prefer cabinet storage to drawers, remove the drawer slides and cut out the dividers between the drawers on the outer columns of drawers as well, and build a cabinet door front like you did under the sink. Measure the space and cut the pieces of wood 3/4 inch larger than the measurement on all four sides. Attach the cabinet doors with two metal hinges each.

Accessorize your new bar by placing an ice bucket on one side of the sink and half a dozen wine glasses on the other side for easy access. If you have a crystal pitcher or decanter, your new bar is the perfect place to display it.