Building a wooden corner desk with a pull-out keyboard tray is a great DIY project that combines functionality with style. It allows you to create a space-efficient desk tailored to your needs, with ample surface area for working while keeping your keyboard out of sight when not in use. Below are the steps to guide you through the process of building your own corner desk.
Materials and Tools Needed:
- Wood (choose your preferred type of wood, such as plywood, hardwood, or MDF):
- 1 sheet of 3/4″ plywood (for the desktop and shelves)
- 1 sheet of 1/2″ plywood (for the keyboard tray)
- 2 wooden legs (or more, depending on design)
- Pull-out keyboard tray hardware (can be purchased at most hardware stores)
- Wood glue
- Screws and nails (wood screws for assembling the pieces)
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw or table saw
- Power drill
- Wood clamps
- Sandpaper (for smoothing edges)
- Wood finish or paint (optional, for the final touch)
- Wood filler (optional for covering screw holes)
Step 1: Design Your Desk
Before you start cutting any wood, create a design or a rough sketch of the desk. Determine the size of the desk based on your available space and how much surface area you need. A corner desk typically features a “L” shape, so plan for one side of the desk to be longer than the other to fit neatly into the corner of the room.
Basic dimensions:
- Length of the main desk surface: Typically 48″ to 60″.
- Width of the main desk surface: Around 24″ to 30″.
- Length of the side desk: Approximately 36″ to 48″ for the shorter side.
- Height of the desk: Usually 29″ to 30″ from the floor to the desk surface.
Step 2: Cutting the Desk Surface and Components
Using the circular saw or table saw, cut the plywood sheets to the required dimensions for the main desktop and the side desk portion. You will also need to cut out pieces for the keyboard tray.
- Main desk surface: Cut one piece of plywood for the primary desktop, ensuring it is the size you determined in Step 1.
- Side desk surface: Cut another piece of plywood for the side, ensuring it fits at the angle you want (usually a 90-degree angle to the main desk).
- Keyboard tray: Cut a piece of 1/2″ plywood to a size that comfortably accommodates your keyboard and mouse. A typical size might be around 24″ wide by 12″ deep.
Step 3: Build the Frame for Stability
The frame will provide support for the desk. You can use additional 2x4s or plywood pieces to create the support structure.
- Attach the legs: If you are using wooden legs, attach them securely to the four corners of the desk. Use wood screws or dowels for a solid connection. You can also use a center support beam if you’re building a larger desk.
- Cross support: For added stability, install a cross support beneath the main desk surface. This will help prevent sagging and provide extra strength for holding heavy items.
Step 4: Assemble the Corner Desk
Once the frame and legs are in place, it’s time to attach the desk surfaces.
- Attach the main desktop: Align the main piece of plywood to the top of the frame, ensuring it is centered and flush with the edges. Use wood glue and screws to secure it in place.
- Attach the side desk: Position the shorter side piece at a right angle to the main desk and attach it to the frame. This creates the “L” shape typical of corner desks.
Step 5: Install the Keyboard Tray
The keyboard tray will slide out from under the desk when needed and can be tucked away when not in use.
- Position the tray rails: Mark the area beneath the main desk where the keyboard tray will go. Typically, the tray sits about 2″ to 3″ from the edge of the desk. Attach the pull-out tray hardware (rails) to the underside of the desk and the keyboard tray.
- Test the sliding mechanism: Ensure the pull-out tray slides smoothly and is positioned at a comfortable height for typing. The tray should extend fully without obstruction, and when not in use, it should sit flush beneath the desk.
Step 6: Sand and Finish the Desk
Once the desk frame and keyboard tray are assembled, sand all surfaces to remove any rough edges and splinters. Start with a coarse sandpaper and finish with a fine grit for a smooth surface.
If you want to paint or stain your desk, now is the time to apply your chosen finish. Use a wood finish or stain that matches your room’s decor, and apply several coats for durability. Allow the finish to dry thoroughly before using the desk.
Step 7: Final Assembly and Adjustments
After the finish has dried, make sure all parts are securely attached. Test the keyboard tray to ensure it slides properly and adjust the desk as needed for comfort. If you used any wood filler, sand over the filled areas to make sure the surface is smooth.
Optional: Add Additional Features
You can further personalize the desk with additional features such as:
- Cable management holes: Drill holes at the back of the desk to route cables for a cleaner look.
- Storage shelves or drawers: Add shelves beneath the desk or install a set of drawers on the side for additional storage space.
- Ergonomic adjustments: Consider adding height-adjustable legs if you want the option to stand while working.
Once your corner desk is fully assembled, you’ll have a sleek and functional piece of furniture that maximizes your workspace. Not only does it fit perfectly in a corner, but the pull-out keyboard tray keeps your desk clutter-free and helps with ergonomics.
For more detailed woodworking projects and tutorials, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course.