Hey there, fellow craft enthusiasts! Have you ever wished for a dedicated workspace that magically disappears when not in use? Or maybe you’re struggling to fit a desk into a compact living space? Well, fret no more! Today, I’m going to guide you through crafting a DIY wall-mounted drop-leaf table – a game-changer for small spaces and a testament to the beauty of functional artistry!
This ingenious piece isn’t just a table; it’s a transformer in the world of furniture. One moment it’s a sleek, wall-mounted shelf, blending seamlessly into your decor, and the next, it unfolds into a sturdy desk, ready to accommodate your creative endeavors. And the best part? It even boasts hidden storage to keep your workspace clutter-free!
Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or just starting, this project is approachable and rewarding. So, gather your tools, channel your inner artisan, and let’s create a piece that’s both functional and beautiful.
Materials You’ll Need for Your Wall-Mounted Desk
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, let’s gather our arsenal of creativity! Here’s a list of the materials you’ll need:
Wood:
- 1″ x 8″ x 8′ Common Board
- 3/4″ Sanded Plywood Project Panel
- 1″ x 2″ Furring Strip
Hardware:
- Two Magnetic Door Catches
- One Pair of 90 Degree Surface Mount Hidden Spring Hinges
- One Lid Support Left Hinge & One Lid Support Right Hinge
- Pegboard Hooks
- Pegboard Baskets
- Knob for Pulling the Desk Down
Other:
- Pegboard Project Panel
- Paint Colors of Your Choice
- Wood Screws (around 1 1/2″ – 2″ long and about 15 total)
- Wood Screws (around 3/4″ long and four total)
- Small Drill Bit for making Pilot Holes
- Drill
- Circular Saw
- Stud Finder
Let’s Get Building: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we have our creative arsenal ready, let’s embark on this fulfilling journey of building your very own wall-mounted drop-leaf table.
Step 1: Building the Framework
- Begin by taking your 1″ x 8″ x 8′ common board and cut it into the following lengths:
- Two pieces at 28″ long
- Two pieces at 17 7/8″ long
- Arrange these cut pieces to form a rectangular frame, with the longer boards forming the sides and the shorter boards forming the top and bottom.
- Use your drill and the longer wood screws to securely fasten the frame together. Remember to pre-drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
Pro Tip: For added strength and longevity, consider applying wood glue along the edges of the boards before screwing them together.
Step 2: Crafting the Tabletop and Back
- Take your 3/4″ plywood project panel and cut it down to 28″ x 19 1/2″. This will serve as your tabletop.
- Next, cut the pegboard project panel down to 26 3/8″ x 17 7/8″ to create the back panel of your desk.
Step 3: Adding a Splash of Personality with Paint
Now comes the fun part – infusing your personality into your creation! Choose paint colors that resonate with your style and apply them to the frame, tabletop, and back panel. Let your creativity run wild!
Step 4: Assembling the Desk
- Attach the tabletop to the frame using the 90-degree surface hinges. Ensure the hinges are securely fastened for smooth opening and closing of the tabletop.
- Next, install the lid support hinges on both sides of the tabletop. These hinges will provide crucial support to the tabletop when it’s in the open position.
- Attach the magnetic latches at the top of the frame and the underside of the tabletop to keep the desk securely closed when not in use.
- Finally, attach your chosen knob to the front of the tabletop, providing a convenient handle for pulling the desk down.
Step 5: Mounting Your Masterpiece
- Determine the ideal height for your desk by having someone sit in the chair you plan to use and marking the wall accordingly.
- Use a stud finder to locate and mark the wall studs in the area where you’ll be mounting the desk.
- Cut the 1″ x 2″ furring strip to the width of your desk and attach it horizontally to the wall studs using the longer wood screws.
- Align the top of the desk frame with the top of the furring strip and attach the desk to the strip using your longer wood screws, ensuring it’s securely mounted.
Step 6: Personalizing Your Workspace
With your DIY wall-mounted drop-leaf table now proudly displayed, it’s time for the final touch – organizing and personalizing your workspace. Utilize the pegboard hooks and baskets to store your art supplies, writing materials, or any other essentials you need within arm’s reach.
Conclusion
Congratulations, my friend! You’ve successfully crafted a space-saving work of art! This DIY wall-mounted drop-leaf table is not just a testament to your crafting skills but also a symbol of your ingenuity and creativity. Now, sit back, admire your handiwork, and let the creative juices flow in your new, organized, and stylish workspace!