How to Build a Small Desk
by DIYMANcreations in Workshop > Furniture
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How to Build a Small Desk
This is a step by step tutorial on how to build a small desk. Be sure to check out the video if you have any issues during the build.
Supplies
1x2” 8ft 3pcs
2x2” 8ft 3pcs
1x12” 8ft 1pc
1x8” 8 ft 1pc
1 1/4” pocket screws 100pcs
Cut Up Your 1x2s and 2x2s
1x2s
6 at 12”
7 at 18.5”
2 at 27.5”
2x2s
6 at 30”
1 at 27.5”
1 at 18.5”
6 at 12”
7 at 18.5”
2 at 27.5”
2x2s
6 at 30”
1 at 27.5”
1 at 18.5”
Let’s Put Some Pocket Holes in Those Boards
Put two pocket holes on each side of all of these boards except the 30” 2x2s
Also, on two of the 18.5” 1x2s, two of the 12” 1x2s and the two 27.5” 1x2s, put one pocket holes in the center.
These will be used to attach the top later.
Also, on two of the 18.5” 1x2s, two of the 12” 1x2s and the two 27.5” 1x2s, put one pocket holes in the center.
These will be used to attach the top later.
Make Some Marks on the 30” 2x2s
Mark 3” up from the bottom on all the 30” 2x2s
Also mark 15” up from the bottom
Also mark 15” up from the bottom
Assemble the Back of the Desk
Lay out the back of the desk as shown in the pictures.
The 30” 2x2s will make up the legs of the desk.
Then place a 27.5” 1x2 flush with the top between the first and second one.
A 27.5” 2x2 will be attached 3” up from the bottom
Set the 12” boards between the 2nd and 3rd 2x2. These should be attached flush with the top, at the top of those 15” marks, and at the top of the 3” marks.
Offset these boards 1/4” from the outside edge of the 2x2s.
Use pocket screws and wood glue to join these boards together
The 30” 2x2s will make up the legs of the desk.
Then place a 27.5” 1x2 flush with the top between the first and second one.
A 27.5” 2x2 will be attached 3” up from the bottom
Set the 12” boards between the 2nd and 3rd 2x2. These should be attached flush with the top, at the top of those 15” marks, and at the top of the 3” marks.
Offset these boards 1/4” from the outside edge of the 2x2s.
Use pocket screws and wood glue to join these boards together
Attach the Sides
The sides are made up using all the 18.5” pieces.
On the left side, attach the 18.5” 2x2 3” up from the bottom and a 18.5” 1x2 flush with the top.
On the second and third 2x2, attach 18.5” 1x2s 3” up from the bottom, 15” up from the bottom, and flush with the top.
I also offset these 1/4” from the sides of the desk
On the left side, attach the 18.5” 2x2 3” up from the bottom and a 18.5” 1x2 flush with the top.
On the second and third 2x2, attach 18.5” 1x2s 3” up from the bottom, 15” up from the bottom, and flush with the top.
I also offset these 1/4” from the sides of the desk
Assemble the Front of the Desk
This side should go together in the opposite direction from the back. Also, there should be no 2x2 on the bottom portion of the large opening.
Put the Two Sides Together
Once again, it’s ideal to offset the 1x2s 1/4” from the outside edge of the 2x2s.
Cut Four 1x8s to 21”
Cut Out the Corners So They Rest on the Shelves Flush With the Outside Edges of the Desk
Attach the Shelves
Attach them using wood glue and finishing nails
Cut the 1x12 Into Two 48” Pieces
Also, combine the two pieces into one 24” board using pocket screws and wood glue
Attach the Table Top Using Pocket Screws and Wood Glue
The left and right sides should overhang 2” on each side
If you use edge glued lumber, the front should overhang 1.5” and the back should overhang 1”.
If you use a traditional 1x12s, the font and back should both overhang 1/2”
If you use edge glued lumber, the front should overhang 1.5” and the back should overhang 1”.
If you use a traditional 1x12s, the font and back should both overhang 1/2”
Sand and Prep Your Desk
Finish the Desk How You Like
Once you stain and seal or paint your desk, it’s ready to be put to use!