Hey there, art enthusiasts and DIY lovers! Robert Kline here, ready to guide you through a project that’s as mesmerizing as it is functional: a floating resin desk with a secret storage compartment. That’s right, you read that correctly – we’re going to make a desk appear as though it’s defying gravity!
This project blends the warmth of natural wood with the modern allure of crystal-clear resin. The result? A statement piece that’s sure to elevate any workspace. Don’t worry if you’re new to woodworking or resin crafting; I’ll be with you every step of the way, offering tips, tricks, and encouragement. Let’s dive in!
Gathering Your Materials:
Before we embark on this exciting journey, let’s gather our supplies:
For the Desk:
- (3) 1x8x8 Boards (desk top)
- (3-4) 1x3x8 boards (desk legs)
- (4) 1x4x8 boards (desk apron and drawer)
- ¼ sheet ¼” plywood (drawer bottom)
- (1) 16” Drawer Slide
- Wood Glue
- Wood Dowels OR 1 ¼” pocket hole screws
- L-Brackets (to attach the top)
- Furniture Wax or Finish
For the Resin Legs:
- (1-2) Gallon MAS Deep Pour Resin (or similar)
- Scrap plywood (to build forms)
- Wood screws (to assemble forms)
- Tyvek tape
- Clear Caulk
- MAS Penetrating Epoxy (or similar)
Tools You’ll Need:
- Dowel Jig OR Pocket Hole Jig
- Drill
- Miter Saw
- Circular Saw
- Clamps
- Table Saw (to cut dadoes in drawer bottom)
- Sander and sandpaper (various grits)
Crafting the Illusion: A Step-by-Step Guide to Your Floating Desk
Step 1: The Art of “Breaking” Wood
The key to our floating illusion lies in the legs. We’ll be crafting them from “broken” pieces of wood encased in clear resin. Now, finding pre-broken oak posts might be a challenge (unless you have a particularly clumsy lumberjack friend!), so we’ll create our own!
- Rip and Score: Start by ripping your 1×3 boards to about 2 ½” wide. This width, when layered, will give us that sturdy post look. Next, use your miter saw to score lines across the width of each board. This score mark will guide the break and add to the natural, fractured effect.
- Break It Down: This is where things get a little… physical. Using a concrete block as a base, carefully position your scored boards and apply pressure (a well-placed jump might do the trick!). Remember, safety first!
- Embrace the Imperfections: Don’t be afraid to get a little rough! Use a hammer to further distress the edges, creating a truly authentic “broken” look.
Step 2: Building the Resin Molds
With our “broken” wood pieces ready, let’s create the molds for our resin legs.
- Form Construction: Cut your scrap plywood into pieces that, when assembled, will create a 2 ½” square form, about 32” long.
- Tape and Caulk: Line the inside of your plywood forms with Tyvek tape. This will prevent the resin from sticking. Next, use clear caulk to seal any gaps in the corners of your form, preventing leaks during the pour.
Step 3: Pouring the Resin Legs
- Prepare the Wood: Trim the ends of your “broken” wood pieces, ensuring they fit snugly inside the mold. Lightly sand the sides for a smooth finish. Vacuum any dust or debris from the wood and the mold.
- Seal with Epoxy: Apply a coat of penetrating epoxy to all surfaces of the wood. This crucial step seals the wood, preventing air bubbles from forming in the resin.
- Layer the Resin: Pour your resin in thin layers, about ⅞” thick at a time. Allow each layer to cure to a firm, tacky state before pouring the next. This process ensures a strong, crystal-clear finish.
Pro Tip: Mix your resin thoroughly to avoid any cloudiness!
Step 4: Assembling the Desk
While your resin legs cure, let’s build the rest of the desk.
- Desk Top: Edge-glue your 1×8 boards together to create the desk top. Clamp and allow to dry completely.
- Desk Base: Cut your 1×4 boards to size for the desk aprons, following the provided plans. Use pocket holes and screws or dowels and glue to assemble the base.
- Drawer Installation: Install your drawer slides and build the drawer using 1x4s and ¼” plywood. Attach the drawer front, ensuring a seamless look with the desk apron.
Step 5: Attaching the Top and Finishing Touches
- Secure the Top: Once your resin legs are fully cured, attach them to the desk base. Then, carefully position your desk top and secure it using L-brackets.
- Finishing: Sand all surfaces smooth and apply your chosen finish.
Pro Tip: For a natural look that complements the resin, consider using a furniture wax.
Congratulations! You’ve Built a Floating Resin Desk!
You did it! You’ve successfully combined woodworking and resin crafting to create a unique and functional piece of furniture. Feel proud of your craftsmanship and enjoy the compliments on your stunning, gravity-defying desk!
Want more detailed instructions and visual guidance? Head over to the Robert Kline Art YouTube channel for a complete video tutorial. And don’t forget to subscribe for more exciting DIY projects!
What do you think of this floating desk design? Share your thoughts and project pictures in the comments below! I love seeing your creations.