DIY Desk Grommets

Add grommets to your desktop to remove a little cable clutter.

Desk grommets exist to remove as much cable clutter from mice, keyboards and other peripheral devices as much as possible from the desk's surface. These are quickly added to a desk surface, offering a cleaner and more productivity-friendly workspace than before.

Things You'll Need

• Drill
• 2-inch hole saw attachment
• Snap-in grommet

Instructions

1. Locate the spot where you want the grommet on the desktop. This is ideally in a central position for mouse and keyboard, or anywhere there is a cluster of peripherals.

2. Slide the drill bit attachment into the drill's chuck. Press the drill bit guide protruding from the center of the hole into the desk's surface.

3. Squeeze the trigger gently to get the pilot bit to engage the wood. Hold the drill as vertical as possible while you continue to press down as the hole is cut.

4. Reverse the drill. Back the hole saw out of the desktop.

5. Snap the grommet into the hole on the desktop. Route your cables through the grommet to the hub or computer tower as needed.

Tips & Warnings

• USB hubs are available to snap into grommet holes on desktops. These provide a quick access point to newly-added USB devices.

• Using a drill with a side handle helps control the motion of the tool as it punches through the desktop.

• Keep monitors and other sensitive gear away from the tool in case the battery end gets away from you.

References

• Cable Organizer: Round Plastic Desk Grommets
• The Family Handyman: How to Properly Use a Hole Saw