How to Build a Bathroom Vanity

Step 3: Construct the Back Frame

1. Cut the Back Apron Pieces: Similar to the front aprons, cut the back apron pieces to size.
2. Assemble the Back Frame: Drill pocket holes into the ends of the back apron pieces. Attach them to the two remaining legs using 1 ¼” pocket hole screws and wood glue. The top apron should be flush with the top and front of the legs. The bottom apron should be flush with the front of the legs and 2 ½” from the bottom.
3. Attach the Back Frame to the Cabinet: Secure the back frame to the cabinet using 1 ¼” pocket hole screws and wood glue. Drive the screws from within the cabinet (bottom, sides, and middle panels) into the back frame. Ensure the bottom apron is flush with the front of the legs and the cabinet bottom, and the top apron is flush with the top and front of the legs.

Step 4: Assemble the Cabinet Drawers

1. Cut the Drawer Pieces: Using your measurements, cut the drawer sides, bottoms, fronts, and backs from plywood or MDF (depending on your choice for painted doors).
2. Assemble the Drawer Boxes: Drill pocket holes on the edges of the bottom pieces and at both ends of the side pieces. Attach the sides to the drawer bottom with 1 ¼” pocket hole screws and wood glue. Use a Kreg Right Angle Clamp to hold the pieces together securely during assembly.
3. Attach the Drawer Fronts and Backs: Cut the drawer fronts and backs to size. Secure them to the assembled drawer box (bottom and sides) using 1 ¼” pocket hole screws and wood glue.

Step 5: Install the Drawer Slides and Drawer Fronts

1. Mark for Drawer Slide Placement: Use a spacer to mark the desired location for the drawer fronts on the inside of the cabinet. Consider the thickness of your drawer pulls when making these markings.
2. Install Drawer Slides: Employ the Kreg Drawer Slide Jig (or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your chosen drawer slides) to ensure accurate and effortless installation. Attach the slides to the cabinet using the jig and screws.
3. Attach the Drawer Fronts: Cut the drawer faces to size. Use spacers to create a uniform gap around the drawer face perimeter. Apply wood glue to the drawer front and secure it to the drawer box using brad nails. To conceal the nail heads, drive them from the inside of the drawer and into the back of the drawer face.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a Kreg Jig or Drawer Slide Jig, you can still assemble the vanity using standard woodworking techniques and clamps. However, these jigs significantly simplify the process and ensure accurate joinery.

Step 6: Attach the Side Panel Trim (Optional)

1. Cut the Side Trim Pieces: Rip 1x boards to your preferred width for the side panel trim. Cut the pieces to match the length of your vanity’s sides.
2. Attach the Trim: Secure the side trim pieces to the sides of the vanity using brad nails and wood glue. Drive the nails from inside the cabinet and into the back of the side panel trim. Ensure the top and bottom of the trim pieces are flush with the top and bottom of the vanity.

Step 7: Painting or Staining the Vanity

1. Sand the Vanity: Once the construction is complete, thoroughly sand the entire vanity with fine-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth finish. Remove any sanding dust with a tack cloth.
2. Apply Paint or Stain: Depending on your desired look, apply a coat of primer (recommended for painted finishes) followed by two to three coats of paint or stain. Allow ample drying time between coats. Choose a paint color or stain that complements your bathroom’s overall design and other fixtures.

Step 8: Installing the Countertop and Sinks

1. Prepare the Countertop: Carefully place the countertop onto the vanity base. Ensure it’s level and properly overhangs the front and sides according to your design.
2. Install the Sinks: Following the sink manufacturer’s instructions, drill faucet holes and install the sink(s) onto the countertop. Apply silicone caulk around the rim.

Step 9: Mounting the Vanity to the Wall

1. Locate Wall Studs: Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs behind your designated vanity location. Mark their positions on the wall.
2. Install Wall Cleats: Cut 2×4 lumber pieces to fit between the floor and the bottom apron of the vanity. Attach these cleats securely to the wall studs using lags or toggle bolts (depending on your wall material). Ensure the cleats are level and can support the weight of the vanity.
3. Mount the Vanity: Carefully lift and position the vanity against the wall, aligning it with the pre-installed wall cleats. Secure the vanity to the cleats using screws driven from the bottom of the vanity into the cleats. Double-check that the vanity is level and plumb before fully tightening the screws.

Step 10: Installing Hardware and Finishing Touches

1. Attach Drawer Pulls and Cabinet Knobs: Once the vanity is secured to the wall, install your chosen drawer pulls and cabinet knobs using the provided hardware.
2. Apply Caulk: Use silicone caulk to seal any gaps between the countertop and the wall, as well as around the sink faucet base. This will prevent water damage and create a clean, finished look.
3. Organize and Enjoy! With the hardware installed and caulking complete, your modern farmhouse bathroom vanity is ready for use! Organize your drawers and cabinets with toiletries and bathroom essentials. Step back and admire your beautiful DIY creation!

Additional Tips for Building Your Modern Farmhouse Bathroom Vanity

• Consider adding open shelving: Open shelving below the sink can add a touch of rustic charm and provide additional storage space for towels or decorative items.
• Install a barn door for a unique touch: Instead of traditional cabinet doors, opt for sliding barn doors made from reclaimed wood for a true farmhouse statement piece. Ensure you use appropriate barn door hardware that can support the weight of the doors.
• Accessorize with vintage hardware: Complement the modern farmhouse aesthetic by incorporating vintage-style cabinet pulls and drawer knobs.
• Think about lighting: Pendant lights or sconces above the vanity can enhance the overall look and provide task lighting for the bathroom.

By following these step-by-step instructions and incorporating these design tips, you can build a beautiful and functional modern farmhouse bathroom vanity that perfectly complements your space. Remember, this is a general guide, and you can customize the design and features to suit your preferences and bathroom layout. Happy building!