Building a wooden keyboard tray for an ergonomic desk is a great DIY project! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make one. The tray will allow you to adjust the height and angle of your keyboard, reducing strain on your wrists and promoting better posture.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden board (3/4″ thick plywood or solid wood)
- Size: The board should be wide enough for your keyboard and mouse, about 30–36 inches wide and 10–12 inches deep.
- Drawer slides (heavy-duty, for smooth extension)
- Screws
- Wooden dowels or blocks (for height adjustments)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Stain or paint (optional, for finishing)
- Measuring tape
- Screwdriver or drill
- Saw (if needed for cutting the wood)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Measure the Space: Measure the width of the desk where you want the tray to slide in. The tray should be a little smaller than the space available, so it can slide in and out easily.
Cut the Wood:
- Cut the wooden board to the desired dimensions. You want it wide enough for your keyboard and mouse, with some extra room for comfort.
- Sand the edges and surfaces to smooth out rough areas.
Attach the Drawer Slides:
- Attach the heavy-duty drawer slides to the sides of the tray. These will allow the tray to pull out and retract under the desk. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing them.
- Make sure to install the slides at equal distances from the tray’s edge, so it moves evenly.
Build the Frame (Optional):
- If you need to add height or want the tray to have a more substantial frame, attach some wooden dowels or blocks underneath the tray. These can be placed in the corners or along the sides for support.
- If you want adjustability, you can install wooden dowels at specific intervals, allowing you to change the height of the tray.
Install the Tray under the Desk:
- Using screws, install the other half of the drawer slides to the underside of the desk.
- Make sure they are installed at the right height for ergonomic comfort, typically where your forearms are parallel to the floor when typing.
Adjust the Position:
- Ensure that the tray is positioned so that your arms are at a 90-degree angle when you type. Your hands should be lower than your elbows to reduce strain on your wrists.
Finishing Touches:
- Sand the entire tray again if necessary, then stain or paint the wood to match your desk or room decor.
Test the Tray:
- Slide it in and out to make sure it operates smoothly. Adjust if necessary for perfect positioning.
Tips for Ergonomics:
- Keyboard Angle: Try angling the keyboard slightly downward (negative tilt) for a more natural wrist position.
- Height: Make sure the tray can be positioned at a height where your forearms are parallel to the ground when typing.
- Mouse Position: You might want to create a smaller tray or platform for the mouse, if you’re using a mouse and keyboard at the same time.
Building your own keyboard tray lets you tailor it to your needs and makes your desk setup more comfortable. How’s your workspace set up right now?