How to Buy a Writing Desk

Writing desks vary in size from small secretary desks to large L shaped desks. The type of writing desk you buy depends on the type of writing you plan to do on the desk, your floor space and your budget.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Decide how you want to use the writing desk. A researcher needs space to lay out texts and organize notes. If you only plan to use the writing desk when you write letters or notes, consider a smaller desk.

2. Know your work habits. If you tend to leave your desk in a mess that you recognize as organized clutter, consider a writing desk with a roll top. For writers who want everything in its proper place, look for a writing desk with drawers, filing cabinet or bookcases attached.

3. Choose a writing desk that fits the floor space. A secretary desk or a drop lid desk take up little floor space and often utilize the lid as the writing surface. An L shaped desk provides one side to set research and books on and another space to write on.

4. Buy an antique writing desk dating from the fifteenth to the eighteenth century for an investment. Traditional styles include Jacobean, William and Mary, Queen Anne, Chippendale and Shaker. Desk makers from these centuries handcrafted the writing desks and focused on quality and detail.

5. Save money with a reproduction made from veneer or a modern desk. Veneer dresses up cheap construction material and keeps the price down. Crisp straight lines and inexpensive wood also help keep the price low.

6. Match the finish or stain of the writing desk to other woods in the area. If the desk isn't an antique, you might paint the desk to match.

Tips & Warnings

• Refinish antique desks to restore the condition.
• Use a professional to refinish antiques in order to maintain their value.
• Chips in the veneer may be difficult to repair and ruin the facade.