Reglue a loose wooden drawer joint

Before you start

Watch the drawer corners as you hold one side and move the front gently. This repair is for a joint that opens while its wood and mating parts are still sound. Keep track of the original orientation and dry-fit the parts before choosing how to clamp them.

Tools and materials

• Wood glue suitable for the joint
• Clamps and scrap pads
• Square
• Small scraper and brush

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Identify the loose joint

   Empty and remove the drawer. Check which corner moves and photograph how the pieces fit together.

2. 2

   Prepare the mating faces

   Separate only the joint that opens without force. Remove loose old glue and dust without reshaping the joint. Dry-fit before applying glue.

3. 3

   Clamp on a flat surface

   Apply wood glue to the mating surfaces as directed. Bring the joint together and clamp across the drawer with scrap pads under the jaws. Compare the diagonals and correct the alignment before the glue sets. Tighten until the joint closes without bowing the sides.

4. 4

   Check the bottom stays seated

   Look along the underside while the glue is still adjustable. Confirm the bottom panel is fully in its grooves and the drawer sits flat on the bench.

5. 5

   Let it cure

   Wipe away excess glue as directed. Leave it clamped for the specified time and test the drawer empty after curing.

Check the result

Wait for the glue to cure as directed before putting the drawer back. Measure both diagonals, then run it through the cabinet empty. The repaired corner should stay closed and the gaps should stay even when you pull from the centre.