Things You'll Need:
- As noted
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Step 1
Planning:
Measure your keyboard (generally, they are around 18" long x 6" wide x 1 1/2" high). Your pull-out keyboard tray should be sized accordingly, allowing ample clearance all around the keyboard. Make a sketch of your keyboard tray components and mark the dimensions needed to create a tray sized properly for your particular keyboard. -
Step 2
Pull-out keyboard trayMaterials:
I recommend using 1x2 and 1x3 pine for the 'L' brackets; made so the long leg of the 'L' will be long enough to accept the drawer slide and still allow keyboard clearances. Be sure to get proper length wood screws (deck screws work ok) to fasten the 'L' bracket together and to fasten the assembly to the underside of the desk top.
For the keyboard tray itself, I'd recommend using 3/4" plywood; preferably lumber-core.
You will also need some drawer slides, or special slides designed for use with pull-out trays. Be sure they are properly sized to fit the keyboard tray.
You will also need some finishing products; stain, paint, or your choice. -
Step 3
Tools:
You will need a saw (circular, jig, hand); screwdriver (power, cordless, manual); tape-rule; pencil/paper; safety items. -
Step 4
Example of component parts for your pull-out keyboard tray.Cut and assemble:
Cut your 1x2's and 1x3's to length; join them at right angles to form your 'L' brackets. Drill three clearance holes for the mounting screws along the short leg of the 'L' bracket. Cut your keyboard tray. Affix the drawer (or tray) slides to the keyboard tray edges and to the 'L' brackets using the screws provided (unless they are too long for the thickness of the 'L' bracket). -
Step 5
Attach to desk top:
With the desk top upside down, place the keyboard tray assembly on the underside of the desk top, so it is centered (or where you want it) and situated for best use. Using proper length wood screws, attach the assembly to the desk top.
Turn the desk top upright, and test operation of your pull-out keyboard tray.
