False fronts on drawers - why?

[Chris Merriam]

Ok I guess I'm a drawer noob! Getting ready to follow some plans to build an entertainment center (plywood case with a face frame) and for the life of me I can't figure out why the plan says to use false fronts on the drawers. Why use an extra piece of wood? Is it because it's too hard to get the drawer opening perfectly square?

I was planning on finally using my three year old dovetail jig but am afraid there's some common sense drawer thing I'm missing.

Is there?

[David DeCristoforo]

Basically, you hit the nail on the head. Plus, it allows for the drawer to be constructed in ways (cheaper, faster, etc.) not possible otherwise. And further, it allows the use of side mounted hardware that requires a 1/2" clearance between the drawer and carcase. Finally, it eliminates the need for precise fitting of the drawer front in the opening.

[J.R. Rutter]

Use your dovetail jig to build the drawer boxes, then screw on the fronts. I've even done them in plywood - looks nice regardless.