A rustic wooden medicine cabinet brings warmth and character to your bathroom in a way that store-bought pieces rarely can. It’s practical, simple to build, and gives you that handmade touch that makes a space feel personal. You don’t need fancy tools or a woodworking degree—just some basic supplies, a free afternoon, and a bit of patience.
What You’ll Need
- A few planks of reclaimed wood or pine boards
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood screws and a screwdriver or drill
- Wood glue
- Hinges and a knob or handle
- A small mirror (optional)
- Saw (hand saw or circular saw)
- Measuring tape and pencil
- Wood stain or paint (optional, for finish)
Step 1: Measure and Cut
Determine the desired size of your cabinet. A good size for most bathrooms is about 20 inches tall, 16 inches wide, and 5 inches deep.
Measure your boards carefully and cut:
Measure your boards carefully and cut:
- Two side pieces
- A top and bottom piece
- A back panel
- A door piece (the same height, but slightly wider to overlap the frame)
Step 2: Build the Frame
Lay your pieces flat and ensure they line up perfectly square. Apply a little wood glue at each joint, then screw the sides into the top and bottom boards. This creates your box frame. Attach the back panel with screws or nails.
Step 3: Sand It Smooth
Run sandpaper over all the surfaces until they’re smooth to the touch. Don’t rush this step—it makes all the difference. If you’re going for a rustic look, you can leave some of the natural grain and imperfections. They add character.
Step 4: Make and Attach the Door
If you want a mirrored door, glue or secure a mirror to the front of your door panel. Otherwise, leave the wood bare or add a simple trim for style.
Attach the hinges to one side of the door and then to the cabinet frame. Add a small knob or handle on the other side. Test to make sure it opens and closes smoothly.
Attach the hinges to one side of the door and then to the cabinet frame. Add a small knob or handle on the other side. Test to make sure it opens and closes smoothly.
Step 5: Finish and Hang
Wipe away any sawdust and apply your finish—stain, paint, or a clear coat. For a rustic look, try a light stain and wipe it off quickly so some of the raw wood shows through. Once it’s dry, hang it securely on the wall.
Step 6: Add the Details
You can add a shelf or two inside if you like. Just measure where you want them, then screw in small brackets to hold them in place. Fill the cabinet with your essentials—bandages, toothpaste, and whatever else you want out of sight but within reach.
Building your own rustic medicine cabinet is one of those projects that’s both useful and satisfying. You get a sturdy piece of furniture, a touch of handmade charm, and the pride of saying, “Yeah, I built that.” It’s proof that you don’t need expensive materials or a workshop full of tools—just a bit of effort and a vision for something simple and real.