How to Add Legs to a Dresser

If you’ve ever wanted to elevate the style and functionality of your dresser, adding legs can be a fantastic solution. Whether you’re looking to update an old piece of furniture or add a touch of personalization to a new one, attaching legs to a dresser can completely transform its look and feel.

By raising the height of the dresser, you not only create a more visually appealing piece but also provide convenience in terms of cleaning and accessibility.

How to Add Legs to a Dresser

Adding legs allows for better airflow, preventing moisture damage and prolonging the lifespan of the dresser.

In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of how to add legs to a dresser, providing you with the necessary tools, techniques, and expert tips to successfully accomplish this DIY project. Get ready to give your dresser a stylish lift and enjoy the satisfaction of a customized furniture piece that perfectly fits your aesthetic and functional needs.

Importance of Adding Legs to a Dresser

Adding legs to a dresser is an important part of making the piece of furniture look more attractive and eye-catching. It also helps to make the dresser easier to move around and shift in different directions as needed. Legs help to create a visually appealing look that can add style and sophistication while also helping to provide extra storage space for those who want to take advantage of it.

Furthermore, adding legs can improve the stability and durability of a dresser, ensuring that it will last for many years. All in all, adding legs to a dresser is an important part of improving its overall look and functionality, making it one of the best decisions you can make when customizing your furniture pieces.

Installing legs on a dresser is relatively easy and can usually be done in just a few simple steps. First, make sure that the dresser is level and secure. Then, you’ll need to measure the height of the dresser from top to bottom so that you have an accurate measurement of the length of your legs.

Next, find appropriate legs for the dresser and attach them to the piece. Make sure that the legs are securely fastened and fitted correctly before using the dresser.

Make Sure That the Dresser is Level

Finally, you can use furniture pads or feet protectors to further secure your dresser and keep it level without any wobbling or rocking.

Installing the legs on a dresser is an important part of improving its overall look and functionality, making it one of the best decisions you can make when customizing your furniture pieces. With a few simple steps and the right tools, adding legs to a dresser can be a quick and easy process that will give your piece of furniture a boost in both style and stability.

9 Methods How to Add Legs to a Dresser

1. Add Furniture Legs. 

This is the most common way to add legs to a dresser. You can find furniture legs at most hardware stores or online. Be sure to measure the height of your dresser before purchasing furniture legs, as they come in a variety of heights.

To attach the legs to the dresser, use screws and a drill to secure them in place. However, if you don’t have a drill or screws, you can use wood glue to attach the legs. However, if you plan to use wood glue, be sure to apply it liberally and clamp the legs in place until dry.

2. Attach Wooden Blocks to the Bottom of the Dresser. 

If you cannot find furniture legs that you like, or if you want a more rustic look, you can attach wooden blocks to the bottom of the dresser. Simply screw the blocks into the bottom of the dresser, and then screw the furniture legs into the blocks.

This will give your dresser a sturdy base and the legs will be firmly attached. You can find wooden blocks in various sizes at any hardware store, and they easy to attach. While this method is not as elegant, it will still provide your dresser with a strong base.

3. Use L-Brackets. 

If you want a more modern look, you can use L-brackets to attach the furniture legs to the dresser. Simply screw the L-brackets into the bottom of the dresser, and then screw the furniture legs into the L-brackets. This is an easy and straightforward approach to adding legs to a dresser.

To achieve a more secure fit, you can use wood glue to adhere the L-brackets before screwing in the furniture legs.

Screwing in the Furniture Legs

While this method is simple, it may lack the aesthetic appeal that some people are looking for when adding legs to a dress.

4. Use Dowels. 

Another option is to use dowels to attach the furniture legs to the dresser. Drill holes into both the dresser and the furniture legs, and then insert dowels into both pieces. Glue can also be used for added stability.

When drilling the holes, it’s important to ensure they are of an even size and all in alignment with each other. Once the legs are attached to the dresser with dowels, use a clamp to secure them in place. Once the glue has dried, the dresser will be stable and ready to use. When using dowels, it’s important to choose the right size for your project.

Too small and they can easily come loose; too large and they won’t fit. It’s also a good idea to sand down any sharp edges on the dowels before attaching them to the dresser. This will ensure a smooth and seamless finish.

5. Use Pipe Flanges. 

For a more industrial look, you can use pipe flanges to attach the furniture legs to the dresser. Screw pipe flanges into both the dresser and the furniture legs, and then connect them with pipes or rods. This option may be more expensive than other options, but it will give your dresser a unique look. 

Make sure to choose the right size of pipe flanges and pipes or rods for your dresser.

If you choose the wrong sizes, it could cause the dresser to be unstable or the legs to not fit properly. However, if you do it correctly, the result can be a very sturdy and stylish dresser. While this option takes some extra time and effort, it is worth it for the long-lasting look.

6. Use Brackets. 

Brackets are another option for attaching furniture legs to a dresser. There are many different types of brackets available, so be sure to choose ones that will complement the style of your dresser and furniture legs. Screw the brackets into both pieces and then connect them with screws or bolts.

Although this option is simple and reliable, it does require a bit more time for installation.

Screw the Brackets

Be sure to measure carefully before attaching the brackets so the legs are even and the dresser is level. To finish the project, cover up any exposed screws with wood putty.

7. Use Adhesive Strips. 

If you don’t want to drill holes or use screws, you can use adhesive strips to attach furniture legs to a dresser. Be sure to choose an adhesive that is strong enough to hold both pieces together securely. Measure the size of your dresser and purchase legs that will fit properly on it.

Place adhesive strips at four corners of each leg and then press each leg into the corresponding corner of the dresser. Hold it in place for a few minutes to ensure that it has adhered properly. Once all four legs have been attached, wait at least 24 hours before using the dresser.

8. Finish by Adding Felt or Rubber Feet Protectors. 

After attaching the legs to the dresser, you can finish off the look by adding felt or rubber feet protectors. These are great for protecting your floor from scuff marks and scrapes caused by the dresser legs.

You can usually find them at hardware stores or online. To attach the feet protectors, simply peel off the adhesive backing and press firmly to the bottom of each dresser leg. Run your hand over the protector to ensure proper adhesion.

9. Felt or Rubber Feet Protectors.

This will help keep the dresser from sliding and add extra stability. It will also protect your floor from being scratched. Attach felt or rubber feet protectors to the underside of each legs. These can be securely attached using double-sided tape and/or screws, depending on the material of your dresser and foot protection.

Attach Felt or Rubber

Conclusion

As demonstrated, adding legs to a dresser may not be difficult — but it does take some patience and precision. By following the simple steps outlined, you can give any piece of furniture instant elevation for an elegant upgrade or just to spruce up a space.

Plus, your new piece might look like something from a furniture store as long as you select the right style of feet that enhance whatever design aesthetic you’re going for.

If you’re feeling stuck and unsure of what legs to choose, sites online offer hundreds of options and photos to help guide decisions.

Hopefully, this article gave you some helpful tips about how to add legs to a dresser successfully, so now that you have the proper knowledge on how to get the job done, why not give it a try today?

Photo of author

Adrian Green

Adrian is a woodworking hobbyist and has loved Woodworking since he was 10 years old. Back then in childhood, his father used to have a furniture shop. He used to help his dad and learned a lot from him about how to fix woodworking furniture, basic carpentry knowledge and also about how to work hard and take care of business. He enjoys woodworking as a hobby. He loves the feeling of creating something with his own hands, and the satisfaction that comes from seeing his finished products used by others.

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