Dresser drawer repair of your failing veneer is simple!

Dresser drawer repair of veneer, with some basic tools and a few tips from me, you too can repair your failing dresser drawer veneer! This thrift store dresser find had good bones, but the drawers’ inside front panel needed help. I was able to see through the torn and chipped veneer to see the strong, solid wood underneath. I knew that dealing with that veneer wouldn’t be a big deal. Some would view the veneer as a big deal, but in the upcycling world, It was just a minor task, on the refurbish checklist, of this restoration.

You will need these items

  • Wood glue. I used Elmers glue.
  • Small paint brush, to apply glue.
  • Lint free rags or baby wipes.
  • Putty knife and/or Sheet rock taping knife.
  • Sanding block (small block of wood).
  • Sandpaper; 220 and 360 grit.

Upcycling of the failed veneer dresser drawer

Dresser drawer repair, with sand paper and wood patch isn't hard! This thrift store dresser find had great promise, but the drawers needed help! With some basic tools, you too can repair your failing dresser drawer veneer, with a few tips from me!
Dresser drawer failed veneer glue down

  • Scrape away any loose veneer.
  • Glue down the bigger pieces that are loose, but otherwise attached.
  • Let the glue dry overnight.

Drawer veneer repair Tools

  • Using your wood patch of choice, I used Zar, liberally lay down the wood patch, at a level slightly higher than the remaining veneer. A wide putty knife and taping knife (sheetrock) works well for me.
  • In this example, I found that 1/2 Pint of wood patch was more than enough to repair this 5″x30″ inner drawer front, with some to spare.
  • Let it dry for at least 24hrs.

Dresser drawer repair of veneer, with some basic tools isn't hard! This is the finished product, ready for paint.

After the wood patch has dried, you are now ready to sand. I block sanded with 220 grit and then went to 360, to get it smooth and level.

Don’t forget to clear out the hardware holes. I used a Philips screw driver.

You are now ready for paint!


Always Wear Your Safety Equipment!

Always wear the appropriate safety equipment!