How to Build a Computer Desk

Computer desks can be very expensive if made from quality wood. However, with a few carpentry skills it is possible to make a sturdy desk from little more than a few pieces of wood and screws. An electric saw of some kind is also a good thing to have for this project; otherwise, it will take much longer. Depending on the wood that is purchased, the cost will vary. However, the final cost will still be much less than that of a desk purchased at the store and probably nicer in quality as well.

Things You'll Need

• 1 ½ inch thick wood plank for top of desk
• Plank for keyboard tray
• 1 ½ inch thick wood plank
• Wood glue
• Sand paper or electric sander
• Power drill and screwdriver bits
• Level
• Pencil
• Ruler or some other way of marking straight lines
• Wood stain
• Wood varnish
• Brushes for varnish
• Screws
• L brackets
• Carriage bolts and locking nuts
• Keyboard runners
• Scrap wood for bracing the legs

Instructions

1. Design the desk--it's fairly simple. There is a top, a place for the keyboard and legs. The main thing that will differ between projects is the size of the desk. If you want it to be big enough to put a printer on, or other computer related items, then it will need to be fairly large. If you just want space for the computer then it can be smaller. Just be sure to not make it bigger than the space that it will be placed in.

2. Cut the wood to the size that you need. The legs can all be cut from one plank of wood if angled correctly. Make sure that the keyboard desk is wide enough to reach both ends of the desk so that the runners will fit properly.

3. Sand all of the wood pieces until smooth. If using a power sander, this Step will go much more quickly.

4. Attach the legs of the desk to the top using L brackets and carriage bolts and the locking nuts. It is likely that they will wobble at this point. If so, then measure the space diagonally between the table top and the legs, and use scrap pieces of wood to reach across that distance to anchor the legs more firmly. Screw the scrap pieces in tightly.

5. Use the smaller plank of wood and attach the keyboard sliders. Screw them in tightly. If desired, screw a small piece of wood to the back of the drawer so that the keyboard cannot fall off. Attach the other side of the sliders to the desk legs. Make sure you attach the drawer at a comfortable height for sitting at the desk.

6. Use a damp rag to stain the wood in a circular motion, going along with the grain. When it dries, apply the varnish with a paint brush or sponge brush. Two coats will probably be needed. Give it at least 24 hours to dry, depending on the directions on the back of the varnish. Once completely dry, you are done.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don’t have an electric saw, consider borrowing one from a friend. It will make the job go much faster.

• Wear proper safety equipment at all times, and stain and varnish in a well-ventilated place.