How to build a simple desk

This step by step diy article is about how to build a simple desk. If you need to a small desk that you could build by yourself in just a weekend, you should pay attention to this guide. There are many shapes and designs you could choose from, therefore you should select the plans that fit your needs properly. In this article we show simple building plans for a rustic desk, as anyone can get the job done, even without a solid background in the field.

Align the boards properly at both ends, if you want to obtain a professional result. Pre-drill the wooden components before inserting the screws, to prevent the wood from splitting. Use a carpentry square to make sure the corners are right-angled. In addition, you should plumb the sides of the desk, as well to make sure the top of the desk is horizontal. Make the joint more rigid, by applying glue to the edges of the components.

Buy quality lumber if you want to obtain a professional result from the very first attempt. Therefore, we recommend you to use cedar or redwood, making sure all the boards are perfectly straight and in a good condition. The boards should have a smooth surface, if you want to get a nice appearance. Work with good judgement and attention, in order to prevent costly mistakes. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.

Made from this plan

Materials

4 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 42″ (30 degree cuts at both ends) LEGS
2 pieces of 1×3 lumber – 24″, 2 pieces – 39 1/2″ APRONS
1 piece of 1×3 lumber – 48″ STRETCHER
1 piece of 1/2” plywood – 2’x4′ DESKTOP
2 1/2” wood screws – SCREWS
Wood glue

2 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 8 ft
2 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 8 ft
1 piece of 1/2″ plywood – 2’x4′
2 1/2″ screws
1 1/4″ screws
glue, stain
wood filler

Tools

Safety gloves, glasses
Miter saw saw, jigsaw
Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
Drill machinery and drill bits
Router, 1/4” round bit
Pocket hole jig

Tips

Pre-drill holes in the wooden components, before driving in the screws
Smooth the exterior edges of the components, by using a router with a 1/4” bit

Time

One weekend

Building a wooden desk

Building a simple desk

Building a desk by your own is possible, if you select the right plans for your needs and use the right woodworking techniques. There are many shapes and designs you could choose from, but in this article we show you how to build a rustic desk with x-shaped legs.

Building the legs of the desk

The first step of the project is to build the legs of the desk. Cut the legs from 4×4 lumber, as in the image. In order to join X-shaped legs together, you have to notch them and to clean the recess with a chisel. The ends of the legs should be cut at 30º, to provide a good support to the desk.

Securing the legs with screws

Drill pilot holes through the interior legs, about 1 1/2” from the edges. Add a wood glue to the recesses of the legs and join them tightly. Afterwards, drive in the 2 1/2” screws and clean the excess glue, using a dry cloth.

Installing the aprons

The next step of the project is to install the aprons of the desk. Therefore, build the side aprons from 1×3 lumber and secure them to the top of the legs, using 2 1/2” wood screws.

Plumb both sides of the desk and install the front and back aprons. Drill pocket holes trough the aprons and secure them to the side supports with 1 1/4” screws. Make sure the frame is perfectly horizontal, before inserting the nails.

Attaching the tabletop

Afterwards, attach the table top, making sure it is aligned properly. If you have a pocket hole jig, we recommend you to drill pilot holes trough the aprons (every 6”) and drive in 1 1/4” screws. Use thick plywood or MDF to build the top of of the desk, making sure you cut it accurately.

Otherwise, you could get the job done with 2” finish nails and a lot of glue. Place a heavy item on the top, to enhance the bond of the components.

Installing the stretcher

In order to make the whole structure more rigid, we recommend you to attach the stretcher to the back of the desk and to lock it into place with 2 1/2” wood screws. Add glue to enhance the bond of the joints and countersink the head of the screws, in order to obtain a neat look.

How to build a simple desk

Last but not least, you have to take care of the finishing touches. Therefore, fill the holes with a good wood putty and let it dry out for at least several hours. Afterwards, sand the surface with medium-grit sandpaper.

Thank you for reading our article about how to build a simple desk and we recommend you to check out the rest of the projects. Don’t forget to share our articles with your friends, by using the social media widgets.

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