The Basics of Dovetail Drawer Making

Before we move onto the final assembly, it is a very good idea to dry fit the entire dovetail drawer box. If any adjustments are going to be necessary, it will be much easier to address before any glue is applied to the assembly.

Dry fit one of the two sides with both the front and back of the assembly. Then slide in the drawer bottom, and dry-fit the fourth side. When you're confident that the fit is perfect, disassemble the five pieces.

To begin the final assembly, apply a drop of woodworking glue into each of the dovetails as shown in the picture. Spread the glue with either a small bristled brush or a thin piece of scrap stock that will fit into the tails easily. Coat all three edges of each of the dovetails with a thin, even layer of glue.