Dovetail drawers create strong, reliable kitchen storage that hold up to daily use. Why? Because these drawer boxes stay aligned, handle weight, and keep their structure over time.
Dovetail drawers have a joint known for strength and long term performance. The dovetail joint has been cut by hand by generations of woodworkers and adopted by machines in major manufacturing facilities because it works. It’s a telltale sign of great craftsmanship.
This post explains how dovetail drawers work, what makes them an upgrade, and where they make the biggest difference in your kitchen.
What is a dovetail drawer?
A dovetail drawer is a drawer with corners that fit together like two puzzle pieces. The shapes lock into each other so the drawer stays strong and resists pulling apart. These drawers are extremely durable and add value to your kitchen renovation.
Where can dovetail joints be used in cabients?
Dovetail joints are mainly used in cabinet drawer boxes. You see them inside the cabinet box, at the corners of drawers, pull-out shelves, and any drawer that carries weight or moves often. They are not used for cabinet doors or frames, only for drawers where strong corner joints make the most difference.
How Our Dovetail Drawers Are Built in Factory
Our dovetail drawers are made by specialized machines so every corner fits consistently. This creates strong drawers and lets us build them faster than hand cutting, which helps reduce lead times for customers.
Dovetail Drawer Box Construction Details
Drawer Box Construction
- Dovetail joint on all corners
- Fronts, backs, and sides made from 5/8 inch solid wood
- Bottom is 1/4 inch veneer particleboard, dadoed into the sides and back for a secure fit
- Fronts include a scooped profile for easier access
- Height options range from 2-1/4 inch minimum to 9-1/8 inch maximum
Wood Species Options
- Maple dovetail drawers
- Walnut dovetail drawers
Drawer Box Finishes
- Maple uses a water based finish
- Walnut uses a solvent based finish
- Walnut naturally ranges in colour from pale brown to deep rich brown
Automatic Upgrade Inclusions
- Maple dovetail drawers come standard with the Plywood Cabinet Upgrade
- Maple dovetail pull-out shelves also come standard with the Plywood Cabinet Upgrade
Why we love the dovetail drawer box upgrade
This premium upgrade for our custom cabinets is a great addition to your kitchen. Here’s why we love it:
- The interlocking joint holds firm when you load drawers with heavy cookware or pantry items.
- Corners stay tight because the joint spreads pressure across a large surface area instead of relying on nails or staples.
- A square, rigid box supports full extension and soft close slides. You feel the difference in every movement.
- You get smooth edges and consistent surfaces that make your storage look and feel intentional.
- Wood materials feel lux in your kitchen rather than standard melamine.
Dovetail Drawers vs Standard Drawer Boxes
Standard Drawer Box
Dovetail Drawer Box Upgrade
The standard melamine drawer boxes already give you dependable, smooth motion, and consistent everyday performance. They hold up well with regular use. If you want an added level of durability and a solid wood interior, dovetail drawers become a great upgrade. They offer a premium feel and extra stability while building on the quality you already get with our standard construction.
Dovetail drawers are worth the upgrade in custom kitchens especially, where you want the ultimate customization and luxury in your new kitchen.
