Adjusting the size of boards for a small drawer

This is a true story.

To make a drawer in the old days, many years ago, I would simply use a tape measure to determine the “exact” sizes I needed for the sides of a drawer. Then I would cut the boards “to size” at the table saw. The joinery came next, and finally the grooves for the drawer bottoms. Dry fits were always aggravating because, more than likely, the drawers I made were typically a tad lot out of square.

Fast-forward to today.

I now use the cabinet itself to measure the length needed for the drawer, and cut to approximate size at the table saw. Then I test the board in the cabinet — and I always give myself a little extra length:

Then I adjust the length at the shooting board:

Using the shooting board accomplishes two things:

• I can adjust the length (and width, if need be) in increments as small as 0.001″, and
• I know the board will be perfectly square

I recommend:

I recommend this technique, especially if you are frustrated because your drawers need adjusting to bring them into square.

— Al Navas