If you’re looking for a way to add height to your dresser without breaking the bank, there are several simple and affordable solutions. These modifications can improve the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your dresser, making it a more versatile piece in your bedroom. Whether you’re dealing with a short dresser or simply want to elevate your storage options, this guide will provide you with practical tips and step-by-step instructions to increase the height of your dresser.
One effective method is to add legs to the bottom of the dresser. This not only increases its height but also provides additional stability and support. You can choose from various leg designs and materials, such as wood, metal, or acrylic, to complement the style of your dresser. Alternatively, you can opt for risers, which are platforms that elevate the entire dresser. Risers come in different heights and styles, allowing you to customize the elevation according to your needs and preferences. They are typically made of sturdy materials like wood, metal, or plastic and can provide additional storage space underneath.
Another option is to stack two dressers on top of each other. This approach is suitable if you have a sturdy dresser that can support the weight of another dresser. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the dressers are compatible in terms of size and style to create a cohesive look. Moreover, this method is only recommended if you have sufficient space in your bedroom to accommodate the added height.
Elevating the Frame Height
One of the most straightforward methods to increase the height of a dresser is by elevating its frame. This involves attaching legs or risers to the bottom of the dresser, effectively lifting it off the ground. This approach offers several advantages:
- Aesthetic appeal: Raised legs or risers can enhance the visual appeal of the dresser, giving it a more sophisticated or elevated look.
- Practical functionality: Elevating the dresser allows for easier access to items stored in the lower drawers, especially if the dresser is particularly high.
- Increased storage capacity: By adding height to the frame, you can create additional space underneath the dresser for storage bins, baskets, or other items.
When selecting legs or risers, consider the following factors:
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Material: | Choose durable materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. |
| Height: | Determine the desired height increase and choose legs or risers accordingly. |
| Style: | Select legs or risers that complement the design of the dresser and your room décor. |
To elevate the frame height, follow these steps:
- Turn the dresser upside down and place it on a stable surface.
- Attach the legs or risers to the bottom of the dresser using appropriate hardware, ensuring they are securely fastened.
- Flip the dresser upright and check its stability. Adjust the legs or risers as needed until the dresser is level and secure.
Adding a Base or Platform
If you want to give your dresser a significant boost in height, adding a base or platform is the way to go. This method is relatively straightforward and can be customized to match the style of your dresser and the overall décor of your room.
Create a Base or Platform
To create a base or platform, you will need:
- Plywood or MDF
- Wood screws
- Drill
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain (optional)
1. Measure the width and depth of the dresser’s base, including any overhanging trim.
2. Cut a piece of plywood or MDF to these measurements.
3. Determine the desired height of the platform. Cut four legs from the remaining plywood or MDF, each to the height you desire.
4. Attach the legs to the corners of the base using wood screws.
5. Sand the base and legs to smooth any rough edges.
6. Paint or stain the base and legs to match the dresser or your desired color scheme.
Attach the Base or Platform to the Dresser
Once the base or platform is complete, you can attach it to the dresser using wood screws or bolts. Ensure that the base is securely attached and that the dresser is stable before using it.
Here is a table summarizing the steps involved in adding a base or platform to a dresser:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Measure the dresser’s base and cut a piece of plywood or MDF to these measurements. |
| 2 | Cut four legs from the remaining plywood or MDF, each to the desired height. |
| 3 | Attach the legs to the corners of the base using wood screws. |
| 4 | Sand the base and legs to smooth any rough edges. |
| 5 | Paint or stain the base and legs to match the dresser or your desired color scheme. |
| 6 | Attach the base or platform to the dresser using wood screws or bolts. |
Installing Legs or Casters
Installing legs or casters is an easy and effective way to add height to your dresser. This method is ideal for dressers that are too low to the ground or for creating a more elevated look.
To install legs or casters, you will need the following materials:
- Legs or casters
- Drill
- Screws
- Measuring tape
- Level
Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps:
- Measure and mark the placement of the legs or casters. To ensure that the legs or casters are installed evenly, measure and mark the desired placement on the bottom of the dresser. Use a measuring tape and a level to ensure accuracy.
- Drill pilot holes. Using a drill, create small pilot holes where the screws will be inserted. This will help prevent the wood from splitting when the screws are tightened.
- Attach the legs or casters. Align the legs or casters with the marked placement and insert the screws into the pilot holes. Tighten the screws securely using a screwdriver or drill. Be sure to use screws that are long enough to securely fasten the legs or casters to the dresser.
- Check the levelness. Once the legs or casters are installed, use a level to check the dresser’s levelness. If necessary, adjust the placement of the legs or casters until the dresser is level.
By following these steps, you can easily and effectively install legs or casters to your dresser, adding height and creating a more elevated look.
Utilizing Boxes or Drawers
One of the most straightforward methods to make a dresser taller is to utilize boxes or drawers. This technique involves placing empty boxes or drawers on top of the dresser to create an elevated surface. Here’s how you can do it:
Materials:
- Empty boxes of various sizes
- Or empty drawers
- Optional: decorative fabric or wallpaper to cover the boxes
Steps:
- Gather empty boxes or drawers of different heights. Cardboard boxes or plastic storage containers can work well.
- Arrange the boxes or drawers on top of the dresser, starting with the tallest ones at the back and gradually decreasing the height towards the front.
- If desired, cover the boxes with decorative fabric or wallpaper to match your décor and conceal the original designs.
Additional Tips:
To enhance the stability of the raised surface, you can secure the boxes or drawers together using tape or glue.
If you use heavy boxes, consider reinforcing the surface with a sturdy board or plywood placed underneath them.
Table: Comparison of Box and Drawer Elevations
| Box Elevation | Drawer Elevation | |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Varies depending on box size | Fixed by drawer height |
| Stability | Less stable, requires securing | More stable, no need for securing |
| Appearance | May require covering for aesthetics | Aesthetically pleasing on its own |
| Functionality | Cannot access items inside box | Can access items inside drawer |
Stacking and Securing Dressers
To further enhance the height of your dresser, consider stacking multiple dressers on top of one another. This method is particularly effective for adding substantial height, transforming your dresser into a towering storage solution.
1. Check Compatibility
Before stacking dressers, ensure that they are compatible in terms of size and weight capacity. The top dresser should be smaller or equal in size to the bottom dresser, and its weight should be well within the capacity of the lower dresser.
2. Stabilize the Base
To ensure stability, place the heaviest dresser at the bottom and gradually stack progressively lighter dressers on top. If the base dresser has drawers, empty them to minimize weight and prevent strain on the bottom dresser.
3. Secure the Dressers
Use furniture straps or heavy-duty bungee cords to securely connect the dressers. Wrap the straps or cords around the top and bottom dressers, ensuring that they are taut and prevent wobbling or movement.
4. Avoid Overstacking
Limit the height of your stacked dressers to a maximum of three or four units. Excessive height can compromise stability and put stress on the lower dressers, potentially leading to damage or even collapse.
5. Additional Stabilization Measures
For added stability and peace of mind, consider the following additional measures:
- Wall Anchors: Secure the top dresser to the wall using wall anchors. This prevents it from toppling forward, especially during earthquakes or other disturbances.
- Anti-Tip Brackets: Install anti-tip brackets between the dressers to prevent them from accidentally tipping over.
- Furniture Tape: Apply heavy-duty furniture tape to the points of contact between the dressers. This provides extra grip and prevents slipping.
Building a Plinth or Pedestal
A plinth or pedestal is a raised platform that can be used to elevate the height of a dresser. This is a common technique used to create a more imposing or grand appearance, or to simply make the dresser more accessible.
To build a plinth or pedestal, you will need the following materials:
- Plywood or MDF
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain (optional)
Once you have gathered your materials, you can follow these steps to build your plinth or pedestal:
1. Cut the plywood or MDF to the desired size and shape.
2. Assemble the plinth or pedestal by attaching the sides to the top and bottom using wood screws and wood glue.
3. Sand the plinth or pedestal to smooth any rough edges.
4. Paint or stain the plinth or pedestal to match the dresser or your desired décor.
5. Place the plinth or pedestal under the dresser and secure it with wood screws or bolts.
6.
Finishing Touches
Once the plinth or pedestal is in place, you can add finishing touches to complete the look. This could include adding decorative molding, painting the plinth or pedestal a different color, or attaching it to the floor for added stability. You can also use the plinth or pedestal to create additional storage space by adding shelves or drawers.
Creating a Faux Base with Molding
Creating a faux base with molding is another efficient method to enhance the height of your dresser. This technique involves adding decorative moldings to the bottom of the dresser, giving the illusion of an elevated base.
Materials Required:
- Moldings (baseboard or crown molding) in a desired style and size
- Wood glue
- Brad nailer and brad nails
- Mitre saw or coping saw
- Measuring tape and pencil
Instructions:
- Measure and cut the moldings: Measure the length of the four sides of the dresser base and cut the moldings accordingly using the mitre saw or coping saw.
- Prepare the molding joints: Use a mitre saw to cut 45-degree angles on the ends of the moldings. If using a coping saw, cut the ends of the moldings to fit the curves of the dresser base.
- Apply wood glue: Apply a thin bead of wood glue to the back of the moldings and the surface of the dresser base.
- Attach the moldings: Position the moldings on the dresser base and press firmly to secure them. Use brad nails every 6-8 inches to reinforce the connection.
- Mitered corners: If the corners of the dresser base are not straight, make mitered cuts on the moldings to create a seamless appearance.
- Smooth the transitions: Use wood filler to fill any gaps or imperfections between the moldings and the dresser base.
- Sand and paint: Sand the surface of the faux base smooth and apply a coat of paint in a desired color to complete the look.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to implement | May not be as substantial as other methods |
| Creates a decorative element | Requires precision cuts and careful alignment |
| Affordable and accessible materials | May require refinishing if the paint color does not match the dresser |
Adding Decorative Accents to Extend the Height
Adding decorative accents to your dresser can create the illusion of added height without actually altering the dresser’s structure. Here are some creative ways to achieve this:
1. Use a mirror as a backsplash: Attaching a full-length mirror to the back of the dresser will reflect light and create the perception of a taller dresser.
2. Install crown molding: Adding crown molding to the top of the dresser will add visual height and create a grander appearance.
3. Stack books on top: Stacking books in progressively smaller sizes towards the top of the dresser will create a tiered effect that draws the eye upwards.
4. Place tall objects on display: Displaying tall vases, sculptures, or plants on top of the dresser will add height and break up the monotony.
5. Use decorative finials: Adding decorative finials to the corners or center of the dresser will create vertical lines that extend the visual height.
6. Paint the legs a darker color: Painting the legs of the dresser a darker color than the body will create a slimming effect and make the dresser appear taller.
7. Add vertical stripes: Adding vertical stripes to the dresser, either through paint or wallpaper, will elongate the dresser’s appearance.
8. Utilize textured materials: Incorporating textured materials, such as velvet, leather, or textured paint, can create a sense of depth and make the dresser appear taller. Consider creating a headboard-like structure out of velvet or leather on the back of the dresser to further enhance the illusion of height.
| Decorative Accent | Effect on Height |
|---|---|
| Mirror as backsplash | Reflects light, creating an illusion of taller dresser |
| Crown molding | Adds visual height and grandeur |
| Stacked books | Creates a tiered effect, drawing the eye upwards |
| Tall objects on display | Adds height and breaks up monotony |
| Decorative finials | Creates vertical lines that extend the visual height |
| Darker leg color | Slims down the dresser, making it appear taller |
| Vertical stripes | Elongates the dresser’s appearance |
| Textured materials | Creates a sense of depth, making the dresser appear taller |
Using a Ladder or Step Stool for Secondary Storage
If you’re short on floor space or simply want to maximize your storage, using a ladder or step stool to create additional storage on top of your dresser is a great solution. Here’s how to do it:
Choose the Right Ladder or Step Stool
Select a ladder or step stool that is sturdy and high enough to reach the top of your dresser. It should also be wide enough to accommodate the items you want to store.
Place the Ladder or Step Stool
Position the ladder or step stool next to the dresser, facing the back. Make sure the ladder or step stool is stable and won’t tip over.
Organize Your Items
Use baskets, bins, or stackable storage containers to organize your items. Place them on the steps or shelves of the ladder or step stool.
Store Items Out of Reach
The top of the ladder or step stool is a great place to store items you don’t use frequently, such as seasonal clothing, extra bedding, or holiday decorations.
Heighten the Dresser with Risers
Another option for increasing the height of your dresser is to use risers. Risers are platforms that elevate the dresser by a few inches, providing additional space underneath.
| Material | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Wood | Sturdy, durable, and can be customized to match the dresser |
| Plastic | Lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to clean |
| Metal | Strong, rust-resistant, and can add a modern touch to the dresser |
When choosing risers, consider the height you want to add, the weight capacity, and the stability of the risers.
Combining Dressers with Headboards or Wall Art
For a visually striking and space-saving solution, combine your dresser with a headboard or wall art. Here are some creative ways to do it:
Headboards
Place the dresser behind the bed and use a headboard to create the illusion of a built-in bedframe. Choose a headboard with a height that matches the dresser to create a cohesive look.
Wall Art
Hang large-scale wall art above the dresser to draw the eye upward and make the dresser appear taller. Select artwork that complements the dresser’s style and color scheme.
Floating Dresser
Create the illusion of extra height by mounting the dresser on the wall. This technique elevates the dresser off the floor, giving the impression of a taller piece of furniture.
Additional Ways to Make a Dresser Taller
Consider the following techniques to further enhance the height of your dresser:
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Bun Feet | Add decorative bun feet to the base of the dresser to elevate it by a few inches. |
| Risers | Place furniture risers under the dresser to increase its height without altering its structure. |
| Toppers | Top the dresser with a decorative tray, mirror, or other objects to give it extra height and visual interest. |
| Stacking | If possible, stack two dressers of similar size to create a taller storage solution. |
| Height Extenders | Purchase or create custom height extenders to add additional height to the dresser’s legs or sides. |
How To Make Dresser Taller
If you’re looking to add some extra height to your dresser, there are a few different ways you can do it. One option is to add legs to the dresser. This is a relatively simple project that can be done in a few hours.
Another option is to add a riser to the top of the dresser. This is a platform that sits on top of the dresser and adds extra height. Risers are available in a variety of heights and styles, so you can find one that matches the look of your dresser.
If you’re not sure which option is right for you, you can always consult with a professional. They can help you choose the best option for your needs and budget.
People Also Ask About How To Make Dresser Taller
Can I add legs to any dresser?
Yes, you can add legs to any dresser, but it’s important to make sure that the legs are the right size and weight for the dresser. You should also make sure that the legs are securely attached to the dresser.
How tall should I make my dresser?
The height of your dresser will depend on your personal preferences and the height of your other furniture. A good rule of thumb is to make the dresser about the same height as your bed.
What is a riser?
A riser is a platform that sits on top of a dresser and adds extra height. Risers are available in a variety of heights and styles, so you can find one that matches the look of your dresser.
