How to Turn a Dresser Into a Combination Pet Bed and Nightstand

We gave one old bureau two new purposes: stylish storage and sleeping space for pets.

January 12, 2022

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©Brian Patrick Flynn

Brian Patrick Flynn

We reinvented an old three-drawer dresser, turning it into a combination bedside table and pet bed. We cut out the bottom two drawers, relined the inset with beadboard, then painted the entire unit a fun teal color. Finally, we added an inviting cushion, making it a perfect hideaway for a small dog or cat.

Tools and Materials

  • sandpaper or sanding block
  • HVLP paint sprayer
  • reciprocating saw
  • drill
  • screwdriver
  • drop cloth
  • tape measure
  • circular saw
  • nail gun and nails
  • wooden dresser
  • primer
  • lacquer
  • 3/4" thick plywood
  • batting
  • beadboard
  • drawer hardware

Step 1: Remove Bottom Drawers

Remove bottom drawers from the dresser.

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Step 2: Remove Drawer Supports

Use a screwdriver or drill to remove any hardware that holds drawer supports. A jigsaw or reciprocating saw works well if you need to cut out the supports.

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Step 3: Measure Interior

Use a tape measure to determine the proper height, width and depth of the new interior opening (ped bed area).

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Step 4: Add Interior Bottom

Cut a piece of plywood to sit in the bottom of the opening. To accommodate the beadboard that will line the back and sides of the opening, cut the plywood bottom 3/4" shorter in length and width than the opening's dimensions. Then place it along the bottom of the opening. Don't fasten it in place yet.

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Step 5: Add Interior Sides and Back

Use a circular saw to cut beadboard to fit the sides and back of the interior opening. Because you cut the plywood a little shorter than the dimensions of the opening, the beadboard should slide behind it. If not, you may have to cut the plywood a bit shorter. Use sandpaper or sanding block to remove rough spots of beadboard. Hold each strip of beadboard into place, then secure them with a nail gun or screws. Then secure the bottom piece of plywood.

Pro Tip: If you don't have a circular saw to cut the plywood and beadboard, home improvement and hardware stores will often cut it to size for you for a small charge.

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Step 6: Remove Hardware

Use a screwdriver to remove existing drawer hardware.

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Step 7: Prep for Paint

To get the dresser ready for paint, use sandpaper or a sanding block to smooth out rough spots from the dresser's surface. Remove any dust with a damp cloth.

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Step 8: Load Primer

Cover the floor surface of your workspace with a drop cloth. Shake and stir a can of primer, then slowly pour it into the HVLP paint sprayer.

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Step 9: Spray Primer

Coat all surfaces of the dresser with an even, controlled, sprayed coat of primer. Allow it to dry thoroughly.

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Step 10: Spray Finish Coat

Clean and rinse out the HVLP paint sprayer. Load it with your finish color, then spray two coats. Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours for the first coat of paint to dry before applying a second coat.

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Step 11: Attach New Hardware and Cushion

Use a screwdriver or drill to attach new hardware. Place a cushion or pillow in the opening for your pet to enjoy.

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©Brian Patrick Flynn

Brian Patrick Flynn

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