Creating a wooden keyboard tray with ergonomic positioning can be a rewarding woodworking project that enhances comfort and productivity. This guide will walk you through the process of building a simple, adjustable, and ergonomic keyboard tray that can be customized to fit your needs.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch plywood (for the tray surface)
- Hardwood strips (such as oak, maple, or birch) for the support frame
- Drawer slides or full-extension slides (to make the tray adjustable)
- Wood screws or bolts
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood finish or sealant (optional)
Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Saw (table saw or circular saw)
- Drill and bits (for pilot holes)
- Screwdriver or electric drill
- Clamp (to hold pieces in place while assembling)
- Wood filler (if needed for imperfections)
- Paintbrush or cloth for finish application
Step 1: Measure and Plan
Before cutting any wood, measure the space under your desk where the keyboard tray will be installed. Consider the following ergonomic factors:
- Height: Your keyboard should be positioned so that your forearms are parallel to the ground, and your elbows should form a 90-degree angle when typing.
- Depth: The tray should be deep enough to hold the keyboard and a mouse, allowing for easy movement and comfortable hand placement.
- Width: Ensure the tray is wide enough to accommodate the keyboard and mouse side by side, or add space for a larger setup if necessary.
A common size for a keyboard tray is about 26-30 inches wide and 10-12 inches deep, but adjust this to fit your specific needs.
Step 2: Cut the Tray Surface
Cut your plywood to the desired dimensions for the tray surface. A good starting point is a 28-inch wide and 12-inch deep rectangle, but adjust based on your earlier measurements.
Use a table saw or circular saw to ensure straight edges. After cutting, smooth the edges with sandpaper to avoid splinters or rough surfaces.
Step 3: Build the Frame
To give your tray structural support, you’ll need to create a frame that will hold the plywood surface in place.
Cut four hardwood strips for the frame. You’ll need two strips for the length of the tray and two for the width. The length strips should match the width of the tray, and the width strips should match the depth.
Attach the frame pieces around the perimeter of the plywood. Use wood glue and screws to secure the pieces in place. Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting. This frame will help keep the tray rigid and give it a professional finish.
If you want extra stability, you can add crossbars or additional supports to the middle of the tray, depending on its size.
Step 4: Install the Drawer Slides
To make the tray adjustable, install drawer slides on both sides of the tray. Choose full-extension drawer slides that allow the tray to be pulled out and pushed in easily. Here’s how to install them:
Measure and mark where the slides will attach on both the tray and the underside of your desk.
Attach the drawer slides to the sides of the tray, ensuring they are evenly spaced and aligned. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. Typically, one part of the slide attaches to the tray, and the other part attaches to the underside of the desk.
You may want to use screws to secure the slides in place, but double-check that they don’t obstruct the movement of the tray when you pull it out.
Step 5: Finish the Tray
Once the tray is assembled, sand the entire surface to remove any rough spots. Start with medium-grit sandpaper (around 120-grit) and finish with fine-grit sandpaper (around 220-grit) for a smooth finish.
If you prefer a natural wood look, apply a clear wood finish or sealant to protect the tray from moisture and wear. You can use a brush or a clean cloth to apply the finish. Let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Mount the Tray Under the Desk
Finally, install the tray by attaching the other half of the drawer slides to the underside of your desk. Make sure the tray is positioned at an ergonomic height and distance. The slides should allow for smooth movement so you can easily slide the tray in and out.
Before securing the slides, check the tray’s positioning. Ideally, the tray should be positioned around 1 to 3 inches lower than your desk surface, depending on your comfort.
Once you’re happy with the positioning, tighten all screws to ensure the tray stays in place.
Step 7: Test and Adjust
Once everything is installed, test out the tray by pulling it in and out. Sit at your desk and check the height of the tray. Your arms should be at a 90-degree angle, and your wrists should be straight when typing. If the tray feels too high or too low, you can adjust the position of the slides or make minor changes to the frame.
Ergonomic Tips for Optimal Setup
- Keyboard angle: A slight negative tilt (where the back of the keyboard is lower than the front) may help keep your wrists straight and reduce strain.
- Mouse placement: If you’re using a mouse, make sure it’s placed at the same height and level as the keyboard for minimal wrist movement.
- Posture: Sit with your back straight and feet flat on the ground. Your knees should be at a 90-degree angle.
Final Thoughts
Creating a custom ergonomic wooden keyboard tray is a great way to improve your workstation setup while utilizing your woodworking skills. The process is straightforward, and the results are highly rewarding. Not only will your new tray offer enhanced comfort, but it will also add a touch of craftsmanship to your desk.
For more woodworking projects, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course. It offers a wealth of plans, guides, and tips for building everything from small furniture pieces to large outdoor structures. You can get access here: Ted’s Woodworking Course.