How to Build a Desk

How to Build a Desk

One of the advantages of knowing how to build a desk is you can be certain it will meet your specific needs. The materials listed below can be purchased in any hardware or home improvement store.

Required Tools and Materials

Protective eye wear
Wood stain
Sandpaper
Liquid wood
2 1 by 4 inch boards
Plywood
Nails
Hammer
Saw
Carpenter’s glue

Step 1

Decide how big you want the desk to be. Next, measure the available space. Make sure that the chosen area is large enough for the desk and the chair. There should also be room for movement. You can have the wood cut to the size you want at the store. Or you can do this yourself.

Step 2

Saw the 20 x 30 inch wood piece. This will make the end panel of the desk. Cut a couple of 2 x 4s for the desk side panels.

Step 3

Set up the side panel so the outside is facing back from the ¼ inch back and front ends. Connect the boards and fasten them with a couple of nails each.

Step 4

The next step to learning how to build a desk is to position the panel correctly. Set the panel flush on the outer side between the back and front pieces. Join the frame together with nails.

Step 5

Saw a 30 x 30 inch plywood piece. This will make up the desktop. Put carpenter’s glue on the end panel and desk frame. Hammer nails in the framework and the desktop.

Step 6

Hammer the nails so the heads drop under the desk’s top surface. Put liquid wood in the holes.

Step 7

The last step is to sand the desk. Keep sanding the desk until the edges become smooth. Apply some wood finish on the desktop. Give it time to dry.

Tips and Warnings

If you are making a large desk, consider having the store cut the plywood to size. This can speed up the work, especially if the desk has a complex design. Never cut wood without wearing protective goggles.

Some of the debris may fly off and get into your eyes.
Make sure you measure each plywood piece before cutting it. If it helps, mark the point where you have to make the cut. If you make a mistake, the desk will not appear right.

Once you learn how to build a desk, you can use this information to make other types. Using the same basic principles, you’ll be able to create other desks of different shapes.