How to create a wooden laptop stand with adjustable height

Creating a wooden laptop stand with adjustable height is a great DIY project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building one:

Materials:

• Wood: 1/2″ to 3/4″ thick plywood or hardwood (e.g., maple, oak)
• Wood screws (or wood dowels)
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
• Hinges (for the adjustable parts)
• Threaded inserts and bolts (optional, for sturdier adjustment)
• Measuring tape
• Saw (table saw or circular saw)
• Drill with various bits
• Screwdriver

Tools:

• Saw
• Drill
• Sanding block or electric sander
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tools (tape measure, square)

Instructions:

1. Design and Measurements

• Decide on the dimensions of the stand. A typical laptop stand could be about 12 inches wide and 10 inches deep.
• The height can vary depending on your preferences, but an adjustable range of 4 to 10 inches would work well.
• The stand will have a base, two legs, and a top platform for your laptop.

2. Cut the Pieces

• Base piece: Cut a rectangular piece for the base, about 12″ x 8″.
• Top platform: This piece should be sized to hold your laptop comfortably, typically around 12″ x 9″.
• Side legs: Cut two pieces for the adjustable side legs. The height of these will vary depending on your desired range of adjustment, but about 6-10″ tall works well.
• Adjustment pieces: Cut two smaller pieces of wood that will allow you to adjust the height. These will slide into the legs.

3. Prepare the Adjustable Mechanism

• Hinges or sliding mechanism: If you want an adjustable height, you can use hinges to allow the legs to fold out or in. Alternatively, you could design a sliding mechanism with dowels or threaded inserts and bolts for precise height control.
  • For hinges, attach them between the side legs and the base piece.
  • For a sliding mechanism, drill holes in the legs and base to insert the dowels. This will allow you to move the height up or down.

4. Assemble the Stand

• Attach the top platform to the side legs, either directly or using hinges so you can adjust the angle. If using hinges for the side legs, they should be placed on the outer edge of the base and platform.
• If using the sliding mechanism, ensure that the dowels fit tightly and that the movement is smooth.

5. Sanding and Finishing

• Sand the entire stand to smooth out rough edges. Start with medium-grit sandpaper and finish with fine-grit sandpaper.
• Apply a wood finish or stain of your choice to protect the stand and enhance its appearance. Use a clear wood finish to allow the natural wood grain to show.

6. Final Adjustments

• Test the height adjustment and make sure the stand holds the laptop securely at various heights.
• Tighten any screws or bolts to ensure stability.

This adjustable laptop stand will be functional, stylish, and customizable to your needs. Whether you’re using it for ergonomic purposes or just to create a more comfortable workspace, this DIY project should serve you well!

For additional woodworking techniques and tips, you might want to check out Teds Woodworking Course: Click here