Hey there, fellow DIY enthusiasts! Are you tired of battling for desk space or dreaming of a dedicated spot for your creative endeavors? Well, grab your tools and let’s transform that empty corner into a charming and functional workspace with a DIY corner desk!
Planning and Gathering Your Supplies
Before we dive in, let’s gather our materials. This project is perfect for using readily available materials like plywood. Remember, I’m all about using formaldehyde-free and sustainably sourced wood whenever possible!
Here’s what you’ll need:
Materials:
- Hardwood plywood (I recommend PureBond Plywood)
- 1×3 lumber for trim
- Cove moulding
- 1×2 lumber
- Wood glue
- 1.25″ pocket hole screws
- 1.25″ brad nails
- 2″ Spax screws
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Primer
- Paint (your choice of color!)
- Polyurethane or other protective finish
Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Miter saw
- Kreg Jig K5 (or similar pocket hole system)
- Drill
- Right angle drill (optional, but handy!)
- Brad nailer
- Clamps
- Safety glasses
- Hearing protection
Building the Desk Base: A Sturdy Foundation
The key to a long-lasting desk is a solid base. We’ll construct ours using two sturdy plywood units.
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Cut the Plywood: Following the provided plans, cut the plywood pieces for the two desk bases. Remember to double-check your measurements!
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Pocket Holes: Using your Kreg Jig, drill pocket holes along the edges that will be joined together. This will create strong and discreet joints.
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Assemble the Bases: Apply wood glue to the edges and secure the pieces using 1.25″ pocket hole screws.
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Add the Face Frame: Cut the 1×3 lumber to size for the face frame, mitering the corners for a polished look. Attach the face frame pieces using wood glue and brad nails.
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Trim it Out: Add the cove moulding along the top edge of the face frame for a touch of elegance, securing it with wood glue and brad nails.
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Supporting Back Piece: Attach a 1×2 piece to the back of each base using pocket hole screws. This will provide support for the desktop later on.
Crafting the Desktop: Bringing it all Together
Now, let’s create the workspace itself!
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Prepare the Project Panels: Cut the project panels to size for your desktop, forming an L-shape.
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Secure the Desktop: Attach the project panels using 3/4″ pocket holes and 1.25″ pocket hole screws.
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Reinforce with a Frame: Cut and attach a frame to the underside of the desktop using 2″ Spax screws and wood glue. This will provide additional support and prevent sagging over time.
Finishing Touches and Assembly
With the base and desktop complete, it’s time to assemble your new corner desk!
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Paint and Finish: Apply a coat of primer to all surfaces, followed by two coats of your chosen paint color. Once dry, protect your hard work with a durable finish like polyurethane.
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Secure the Desktop: Carefully position the desktop onto the bases and secure it using screws.
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Add Hardware: Install your chosen drawer pulls, knobs, or handles.
Personalize Your Corner Oasis
Congratulations! Your new corner desk is ready to inspire creativity. Now comes the fun part – making it your own!
- Stylish Storage: Incorporate baskets, shelves, or drawers to keep your supplies organized and within arm’s reach.
- A Touch of Greenery: Add a touch of life and vibrancy with a small plant or succulent.
- Inspiration Board: Create a mood board above your desk with inspiring images, quotes, and ideas.
I can’t wait to see your finished corner desk creations! Share your projects with me at [Your Website] and inspire fellow DIYers. And remember, crafting is all about expressing your unique style, so have fun and get creative!