This step by step diy woodworking project is about lap desk plans. If you want to learn how to build a basic lap desk we recommend you to pay attention to the instructions described in this article. Moreover, don’t forget to check out the rest of the related projects, as there are so many design options to choose from that it is really hard to select the right one for your needs and budget.
On the other hand, we strongly recommend you to work with attention and to plan each step of the project thoroughly. Choose quality lumber, such as pine, cedar or redwood, making sure you select straight slats that are in a good visual condition. It is essential to use quality lumber as opposed to damaged components, even if it might seem a little to pricey, as you will see the difference on the long term.
Using a pocket hole system is a good choice when having the join the components together, as it will not only create durable joints, but it will also conceal the head of the screws. Take accurate measurements and use a professional saw to get the job done. Moreover, check if the corners are right-angled by using a carpentry square after fitting each components into place. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.
Made from this plan
Lap desk plans
Building a lap desk
Materials
- A – 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 14″ long, 4 pieces – 10 1/2″ long SIDES
- B – 2 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 21″ long, 2 pieces – 12″ long FRAME
- C – 1 pieces of 1×14 lumber – 24″ long TOP
- 1 piece of 1×14 lumber – 2 ft
- 1 piece of 2×2 lumber – 10 ft
- 1 piece of 1×4 lumber – 6 ft
- 2 1/2″ screws
- 1 1/4″ screws
- glue, stain
- wood filler
Tools
- Safety gloves, glasses
- Miter saw, jigsaw
- Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
- Drill machinery and drill bits
Tips
- Apply several coats of wood stain to the wooden components
- Fill the holes with wood filler and smooth the surface
Time
- One Day
Related
Building a lap desk
Building the sides of the desk
The first step of the project is to build the sides of the lap desk. As you can see in the image, we recommend you to use 2×2 lumber for the components. After cutting the lumber we recommend you to lock them together with galvanized screws.
Building the frame
The next step of the project is to build the frame of the desk and to attach it between the two wooden sides. Plumb the legs with a spirit level before attaching the frame into place. In addition, make sure the top of the desk is perfectly horizontal if you want to get a professional result.
Attaching the top
One of the last steps of the project is to attach the top to the lap desk. As you can easily notice in the image, we recommend you to cut a piece of 1×14 lumber and to attach it to the frame. Drill pocket holes through the supports and insert the screws into the tabletop. Add glue to enhance the bond of the joints.
Lap desk plans
Lap desk plans
Last but not least, we recommend you to take care of the finishing touches. Fill the holes with wood filler and let it to dry out for several hours. Afterwards, smooth the wooden surface with fine-grit sandpaper and vacuum the residues.
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