Drawer Dilemma

Sticky drawers are often caused by moisture and wear, but occasionally the problem’s deeper and into the joints.  I’ll tell you how to take it apart and rebuild it again.

Step 1:        Pull the drawer out and place it on the floor in front of you, number each piece of the drawer with masking tape.

Step 2:        Once that’s done, disassemble the drawer.  Remove any hardware and carefully pull any offending joints apart. 

Step 3:        If your drawer has dovetail joints, carefully knock the sides away from the front and back so that you don’t damage them.

Step 4:        Once apart, gently sand each joint to remove built up dirt and any remaining glue.  A sanding sponge will help you with this task because it will easily conform to the space you’re working in.

Step 5:        When everything is clean and smooth you’re ready to reassemble the drawer.  Start with the sides, apply a good quality wood glue into the joints and secure them in place with some bar clamps.  Make sure that you check the drawer for square before you let it dry.

Step 6:        Slide the bottom into place and use a few small beads of glue to hold all the joints in place.

Once the glue is dry just slip the drawer back into place.  I’m Mrs. Fixit and its just that simple!