How to Build Custom Utensil Drawer Inserts

Tools and Materials List

• Wood
• Brad nailer
• Wood glue
• Miter saw or hand saw
• Square
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Sandpaper
• Clamps (optional)
• Ruler or straight edge
• Finish (optional: stain, paint, or sealant)

In this guide, I’ll walk you through a simple step-by-step process to build your own utensil organizer using basic tools and materials.

1: Measure Your Drawer

You want to remove the drawer and measure the inside width, length, and height. Decide how many sections you need—do you want spots for silverware, larger cooking utensils, your garlic press or other specialty tools?

Plan your layout: You can do this by sketching the layout so you know where each divider will go using paper/pencil, you can use painters tape inside your drawer to mock it up. Pro-Tip: Use your actual silverware or utensils to lay out in the drawer to figure out size and spacing!

2: Cut Your Dividers

Using your miter saw or handsaw, cut your pieces to the measured sizes. My drawers are not very deep so I used craft wood from the home improvement store to fist. If you have deeper drawers you can use plywood. Use your square to make sure you are getting straight lines.

3: Sand and Finish the Cut Pieces

Using 22grit sandpaper sand your wood smooth, making sure to sand the edges and removing splinters. To finish your inserts you can use a clear coat or stain and clear coat. In my case I simply used a clear coat as the insert color matched the inside color of the drawers. You want to do this step prior too assembly so you don’t have weir corners or pooling of your station/ finish. Let everything dry the recommended amount of time before assembling.

4: Assemble the Insert

Arrange your dividers according to the layout you created. Using wood glue and pin nailer attach the inserts to each other and use claps to hold its together while it dries. If you have multiple pieces htis may take a little while but it will be worth it at the end.

5: Put the Insert into the Drawer

Once. your glue is dry, add your insert into your drawer. Hopefully you measured correctly and it fits snugly. If it’s too bug you may have to cut to adjust. Now for the fun part…Test it out by putting your utensils in!

6: Organize and Enjoy!

Thats basically it! Now that your custom drawer insert is done, it’s time to put it to use! Arrange your silverware, larger cooking utensils, your garlic press or other specialty tools in their new custom spots. Enjoy your new clutter-free, perfectly organized kitchen drawer!

The Final product!

Bonus Customizations

• Adjustable dividers – Use thiner tracks made with wood to create dividers that can slide in and adjust.
• Lining – Add a lining inside the drawer bottom to prevent things from shifting and for extra protection. In my drawers I use contact paper, but you can use felt too.
• Labels – You can label sections for easy organization and to let others know the proper place for utensils
• Custom Knife slots – You can use 2×2 block and use kerf cuts to cut slots for you knives to fit into. This elevates the look!

Final Thoughts

This DIY utensil insert is a simple and rewarding project that makes a big impact in your kitchen. Not only do you end up with functional organizer to jeep everything neat and organized, but it also eliminates the frustration of digging through a messy pile of utensils (gross).

Give it a try, and let us know how yours turns out!