Tuesday, August 11, 2009

DIY: Make Your Own Desk

Ever bought a shelf or desk that was impossible to assemble? I especially hate it when you buy pieces in the finish you want and go to buy additional pieces and of course YOUR finish has been discontinued! Here are some simple instructions on how to build your own desk! When you build your own simple wood desk you have the opportunity to choose the size and finish that work best for you and your space.

Here are the tools and materials you’ll need to get started: table saw, mitre saw, drill, clamps, 18-gauge brad nailer, #8 countersink, putty knife, paintbrush, wood filler, paint, two 4’ x 8’ sheets ¾” MDF, carpenter’s glue, 1 ¼” 28-gauge brad nails, 3” #8 woodscrews, 1 ½” #8 woodscrews, 120-grit sandpaper.

Step one: From two 4' x 8' sheets of ¾" MDF (medium density fibreboard) cut a 28 ½" x 58 ½" piece for the top; rip six 4 1/8" wide lengths for the legs; and rip two 4" wide lengths for the apron.

Step Two: To make the legs, apply carpenter's glue to 2 of your 4 1/8" lengths and clamp. Then do the same with the other four pieces. Let dry overnight.

Step three: To construct the box , that will serve as the legs you'll need to trim the laminated pieces to a width of 4" and cut four 28 ½" and four 29 ¼" lengths.

Step Four: Assemble the LEGS, into a square using two 28 ½" and two 29 ½" pieces. Glue and screw together using 3" #8 woodscrews.

Step five: To make the apron, mitre your 4" rips at 45° and wrap the desktop. Glue and nail using 1 ¼" 18-gauge brad nails.

Step six: To make the apron, mitre your 4" rips at 45° and wrap the desktop. Glue and nail using 1 ¼" 18-gauge brad nails.

Step seven: Fill, sand, prime and paint with two coats, lightly sanding between.

No more running around town trying to find the perfect desk to compliment your workspace. Do it yourself and you’ll enjoy using it every time!

Source: The Home Depot

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