DIY Desks: How to Build Your Own Desk and 35 DIY Desk Ideas
Updated on April 27, 2022
Building desks is a trend for modern homes and small offices, especially if you work from home. The idea is to create something functional yet classy enough to match any interior design. Check out these awesome desk ideas.
The best part about it is that you can come up with your own design by turning to specialized image editing software like SketchUp, which is online and free to use. However, if you need inspiration, you can find many DIY desk projects on the web.
Picking a specific design depends on multiple factors: available space in your home, budget, and woodworking skills. Of course, the last part is optional since you can always hire a professional woodworker to create the custom office desk of your dreams.
Best DIY Desk Ideas to Try
If you need inspiration, check out the following DIY desk ideas.
1. Fold-Down Wall Desk – Small Desk with Storage
A fold-down wall desk is an excellent solution for people who live in small homes or studio apartments. In addition to its compact size, the desk folds up when not in use so that it doesn’t get in your way.
The bad news is that the desk isn’t sturdy enough to support a lot of weight, so you shouldn’t try to place anything heavier than a laptop on it. For example, don’t think about using your printer here since the desk will probably break down.
On the bright side, you can use this desk for other purposes when you’re not working on your laptop. For example, you can work on crafting projects, write, draw, and even iron your clothes. Furthermore, you can take advantage of the small storage space that comes with this design.
Head over to DIY Huntress to get the full details on how to make this small desk with storage.
2. Simple Two-Person Desk
A person who works from home knows the importance of having a good desk. This is where you can place your computer, set out lovely decorations, and even put together small crafts with your kids.
If you work with someone else on a regular basis, like a spouse, family member, or friend, you might want to consider creating a simple two-person desk.
This way, you can both sit comfortably while working on projects, which is especially important if the work requires intense concentration.
And, when the second person is on vacation and not working on the nice desk, you can use it as extra space for printers, scanners, boxes, and so on.
You would think that building a DIY desk with drawers for two would be complicated, but this project proves otherwise. All you need are a couple of drawers, a butcher’s block, and wood stain.
DIY Domestic Blonde has all the details for this project, so check it out.
3. Wood Crate Desk – Cheap Office Desk
Some people are definitely committed to recycling. They think outside the box for their creative projects and want to find new uses for old objects.
If you’re one of them, you should consider making a wood crate desk, especially if you’re on a budget. It’s a terrific idea since using repurposed crates is inexpensive and doesn’t require too much storage space in your home office.
The good news is that, if you don’t already have them, you can find large wooden crates for free or at a meager cost. These are available in many stores, usually near the produce section of your local supermarket. Just talk to some employees and ask if they have anything old lying around.
You would think that building a cheap office desk out of several crates is complicated. But visit Making Manzanita to check out the intuitive instructions and photos.
4. DIY Farmhouse Corner Desk
The farmhouse style is quite popular among DIY enthusiasts, so it’s no wonder that many of them have created a unique corner desk with a farmhouse flair.
This design is a fantastic solution for a home office since it allows you to customize the structure and take advantage of two adjacent walls, especially if you want access to plenty of natural light while working on the computer during the day.
For example, if you’re tight on space, you can place the desk against a wall, which will give you extra room for putting together crafts or folding clothes. You don’t need elaborate DIY corner desk plans for this.
Furthermore, if you work with someone else on a regular basis, they can use the desk as an extension of their own computer station by turning it into a home office desk for two.
Our Repurposed Home has prepared a nifty tutorial that demonstrates how to transform two old doors into a DIY L-shaped desk with storage by following straightforward instructions. And, if you need extra storage, you can place a couple of wood creates under the desk.
5. Simple DIY L-Shaped Corner Desk with Top Shelves
An L-shaped desk is a smart choice for anyone looking to save space and add plenty of storage. It typically takes up less than three feet of floor area, yet it offers work surfaces on both sides and underneath them for printers, scanners, box files, or even baskets.
This particular model features a simple hardwood desk with three L-shaped shelves of the same material and color. The shelves are attached to the wall above the desk, which you can use for extra storage or decoration. We love the built-in look and natural color.
You don’t need a degree in woodworking to make this DIY L-shaped desk. It’s a comfortable project even for beginners since the tutorial from Honey Built Home provides all the necessary measurements and step-by-step instructions.
6. DIY Cheap and Simple Desk
If you’re on a tight budget or simply don’t have enough time for creating an elaborate custom desk, try making this simple model. It looks fantastic and takes up minimal storage space, making it perfect for small-sized apartments.
It’s also easy to customize since you can use different stain colors or paint the finish to match your decor. The desk design is so elementary that it doesn’t feature any drawers, baskets, or other storage space. But we’re sure you can work something out, like installing a cabinet nearby.
There’s no need to create complicated and time-consuming DIY plans for this beautiful desk. Angela Marie Made has shared the required measurements and step-by-step instructions. All you have to do is follow them to craft a simple wooden desk under $45.
7. DIY Floating Desk
Many people prefer floating desks because they have more room underneath and don’t bang their feet against wooden or steel legs. And it’s hard to ignore the minimalistic design it brings, especially when paired with a floating shelf made of the same material.
This DIY floating desk is a great solution for home offices because it adds an airy look to the room. Even though there are no legs, the desk sits firmly on the wall since it’s nailed tight. And there’s enough room for a home office desk for two.
The design also makes it easier for you to maintain cleanliness since all you have to do is wipe down the surface after working on your notebook. It’s best to use a clear varnish for preserving the beautiful color of the desk, so it’s worth adding to your list of projects.
Check out the complete instructions for this exquisite model at Within the Grove.
8. Desk Recycled from an Old Door – DIY Door Desk Ideas
Recycling an old door into a reliable desk is the perfect project for anyone looking to add a rustic touch to their home office. This design features an old door attached to a long wooden desk base.
If the door has chippy paint, you can leave it as it is to preserve the natural vintage feel. However, you might be interested in painting the apron and legs to a color that matches your overall decor, like black or white.
Furthermore, it’s necessary to install glass or plexiglass on top of the door (depending on your budget) to even the surface. The desk offers a vast amount of storage space underneath, which is great for keeping printers and other accessories.
If you’re interested in building this DIY door desk to design a French cottage farmhouse home office, head over to Live Oak Nest and look over the intuitive instructions.
9. Butcher Block Study Desk
If you don’t have a lot of time to create a custom design for your home office, consider making a study desk using a butter block countertop and a couple of drawer units to sustain it.
The DIY butcher block desk from this picture is made from birchwood. However, it was coated with a dark walnut stain and sealed with satin polyurethane.
As for the drawer units, you can retain their original color, especially if they’re light since it adds a lovely contrast to the butcher block. On the other hand, you can spray-paint the hardware to make it pop.
The storage area is the real star of this project because you can use it to stash office or computer supplies. And if you need more storage, consider building floating shelves. We absolutely adore the mail holder showcased in this image, which was repurposed into a file folder to match the sturdy desk.
With the right tools, materials, and detailed instructions from Beneath My Heart, anyone can build this DIY file cabinet desk for an office or study room. Add unique details to the drawers, like leather handles, to make it even more stylish.
10. Repurposed Piano – Unique and Fancy Desk Plans
Do you come across a lot of old pianos for sale? Or maybe there’s one in your garage that hasn’t been played in years. Well, instead of letting it rot away, consider transforming it into a stylish large wooden desk that’s custom-made for any space. It’s a unique and fancy desk plan that creative minds will surely appreciate.
This particular model has glass installed to protect the keyboard and make the surface even. It’s sturdy enough to sustain notebooks and laptops but delicate enough to accommodate any decor.
However, you will need plenty of room to accommodate this desk design since a piano is quite big. On the bright side, you can use the extra storage space on top to stash away books and notebooks or display decoration pieces.
For more inspiration on transforming an old piano into a homemade desk, check out this Pinterest post.
11. Floating Work Desk with Hidden Storage
People who want a clean office design will love this floating work desk with hidden storage. It’s a unique desk design that can be adapted to any room. But it works best in a nook since you can fit the desk wall to wall.
The most appealing part about this home desk idea is that it features hidden storage to stash away books, files, office supplies, or small computer hardware.
You just have to close the door when you don’t need to access the storage area. Plus, you can place your keyboard on the door when it’s open.
No legs are necessary for this simple wooden desk since it’s supported by two walls. So you don’t have to worry about hurting your legs when working in a tight space.
If you need additional space, consider shelves on the wall above the small modern desk. You can also install several cabinets to keep office supplies or decoration pieces away.
Watch the YouTube video tutorial uploaded by DIY Huntress to find out how to build this beautiful DIY wood desk.
12. DIY Floating Long Desk
A DIY floating long desk is an excellent solution for those who want to save money on their home office but also to have enough working space. Even beginners can build it without too much trouble.
The most important part of this project is obtaining a large piece of wood to build a long office desk. A butcher block countertop would be the best option since it’s durable.
However, you should be able to also get away with plywood, which is cheaper. If you can’t find a single piece of wood that’s large enough for your home office, consider using two smaller pieces that will be joined in the middle.
You don’t need to build any legs for this long desk table since you can use heavy-duty L brackets made from stainless steel. This also helps create a clean design with plenty of free room underneath the desk for storage purposes.
For more details, head over to Ms Handy Housewife and check out the full guide.
13. Small Desk with Storage
If you have limited space in your apartment but still crave a home office, then this small DIY writing desk is perfect for you. It’s a little desktop design that provides storage to some degree but without taking up too much space.
Since the top of the small wooden desk is plain, it can also double as a craft space. And you can fill up the drawer with office supplies when necessary. You only need a few nails and an electric drill.
Then, hang your favorite decoration pieces on the wall above your new desk design or enjoy the natural light of a large window, depending on how your room is displayed. In any case, this small desk table helps save space without compromising style in any way.
Check out the step-by-step guide by Addicted 2 Decorating to find out everything there is to know about building this cheap small desk.
14. IKEA Alex Desk and Drawer Hack – Double-Desk Home Office
Even if you have a small apartment, you can enjoy having a home office using an IKEA Alex desk and drawer hack. It’s significantly cheaper than ordering a custom-made desk. And you can make your own design in a free software editing program to create something modern, compact, and fit for your home office.
Head over to Hydrangea Treehouse to see what we’re talking about. For the home office desk idea shown in the photo, the DIYer used a couple of ALEX drawer units with drop file storage and EKBY ALEX shelves with drawers from IKEA, paired with a plywood tabletop.
As you can see, no woodworking skills are necessary. Instead, it’s just a matter of finding and assembling the right pieces from IKEA to create an extra-long desk to accommodate two or three people.
However, if you use only two drawers with one shelf, you can just as well craft a beautiful small desk with drawersfor tiny rooms.
15. Modern Farmhouse Narrow Desk from Ana White
Ana White provides the best step-by-step guides for building farmhouse furniture, DIY home accessories, and so much more. She has even assembled an amazing collection of modern farmhouse desks.
This modern farmhouse narrow desk is part of her collection and can suit a home office or any other room. It has a great design, thanks to the thick wood, which makes the desk feel sturdy.
However, there is no storage space for this DIY office desk. If you need some, you can build shelves or install a drawer unit near the desk. On the plus side, this water-resistant desk is easy to clean and can look great in any home office without spending too much money.
You can download the DIY desk plan from Ana White at no cost. It involves building the desktop, sides, front and back, leg frames, angle supports, and bottom side, front and back trim. Optionally, you can add corner brackets and protective felt or rubber feet.
16. DIY Standing Desk 
If you want to be more ergonomic while working at home, then consider building a DIY standing desk. It’s a great way to stay healthy and get rid of back pain that’s often associated with long sitting hours in front of the computer.
Start by measuring your height and buying plywood boards accordingly. 2x4s can work too, but plywood is lightweight and durable. Then, cut the boards to size and screw them together to create a standing desk with storage space for office supplies.
To make sure your cool desk doesn’t feel unstable or wobbly, you can use brackets and braces. Finally, paint it the way you want and assemble your new standing desk.
We also love this DIY sit/stand desk made by Field Treasure Designs. Whenever you feel like sitting, you can use a barstool.
It’s quite beautiful since it’s made from untreated fir. And there’s ample storage beneath the desk in the back for holding a printer, scanner, and other bulky computer hardware or office supplies.
17. IKEA Hack DIY Adjustable Standing Desk
If you don’t have much woodworking experience, then consider making a DIY adjustable standing desk using various IKEA components. Granted, it’s more expensive than a woodworking project, but it’s easy to assemble. And you won’t have to worry about back pain anymore.
Josh Medeski proposes a nifty plan to build a DIY standing desk converter: a KARLBY countertop, two ALEX drawer units, and an adjustable-height workspace like BEKANT.
It makes it easy to adjust the height of the desk since you place the countertop on the desk frame and not directly on the drawer units like in other examples we’ve seen so far. It means that you can pull up a chair and relax sitting in front of your desktop desk whenever necessary.
Visit Josh Medeskito discover more information about this awesome IKEA hack for building a DIY computer desk with an adjustable height.
18. Narrow Wall-Mounted Desk
In case you’re short on space but don’t want to sacrifice aesthetics, consider building a narrow wall-mounted desk. It’s a simple and inexpensive option, ideal for rookie woodworkers.
This design is perfect for creating a home office in a small room without taking up too much space. Furthermore, the skinny desk works great in a guest room, kid’s room, or even the family room.
More Like Home offers several options for building this thin desk, making it a versatile project. For example, if you prefer the original wall-mounted design, you just need a couple of brackets.
However, if you fear that the cheap DIY desk will collapse under its weight, you can add wooden or hairpin legs for additional support. More storage can be obtained by double-stacking a pair of drawers.
19. Kids Homework Hideaway Wall Desk
Kids will love their new homework hideaway wall desk. And they’ll never leave home without doing their tasks again.
This DIY desk idea is a creative solution to the problem of a lack of space, and it’s simple enough for most DIYer beginners. You can build this desk as big or small as you need, depending on your needs and available materials.
The secret is that the surface and legs are foldable. It’s only necessary to pull it down whenever it’s time for homework. Then, your kids can close the lid and enjoy playing with toys on the floor without bumping their heads on the desk.
You can also install a removable chalkboard on the back of the surface so that kids can draw after finishing their homework. What’s more, the cute desk idea has plenty of storage space for toys or school supplies. And parents will no longer have to face clutter since it also acts as a DIY desk organizer.
Visit Organized Mom to get the complete instructions for this inexpensive desk. We promise that you will absolutely love the results.
20. Easy DIY Kid’s Desk
Here’s a simple idea for a DIY kid’s desk that’s mounted to the wall and takes up little space. It’s inexpensive, too, since you can build it for under $50.
This small desk is the perfect solution for any room. It’s great if you lack space or want to make an office out of your kid’s bedroom. Or you could also use it in the living room or den.
If you’re wondering how to build a desk for your kids if you’re not a skilled woodworker, Family Handy Man provides step-by-step instructions with pictures that any rookie DIYer can follow.
You have to locate the studs, mark the desk height, attach the brackets, sand the wood board, apply wood conditioner and stain, and attach the desktop to the brackets.
Granted, you might feel that there’s not enough storage space, but you should be able to fix this problem by installing a couple of shelves above the desk. Be sure to use the same wood, conditioner, stain, and brackets to preserve the style.
21. Live Edge Wood Desk – Bedroom Desk Ideas
Here’s a unique bedroom desk idea for home decor lovers. Who would have thought that you could create an eye-catching live edge wooden desk without any professional help?
The design is both practical and rustic, with midcentury modern appeal. It’s a wonderful way to add some warmth and comfort to your living space. Plus, it also doubles as a DIY craft desk.
The Merry Thought has a detailed tutorial on how to build this modern home desk using two wood slabs like spalted maple. You also need wood glue and a clear polyurethane finish.
However, you will have to do some carpentry work to cut the wood and attach the cross braces. Thankfully, all these instructions are easy to follow.
The DIY home office desk is mounted to the wall. However, if you feel that the wood slabs are too heavy, don’t hesitate to add sturdy legs for extra support.
22. DIY L-Shaped Standing Desk
Check out this budget-friendly solution to build your own desk. It’s L-shaped, which makes it possible for two people to work simultaneously.
Or you can use the extra room for storing your bulky items. Furthermore, the DIY L-shaped desk has a standing design so that you can put the barstool away whenever you need a break from back pain.
What sets this custom computer desk apart from others with a standing design is that it’s mounted to the wall, so it takes up minimal space in your office. Furthermore, it doesn’t have an adjustable desk frame, which means that it’s cheaper to build. You do need a couple of barstools, though.
A Beautiful Mess explains the entire woodworking process in detail. It includes cutting the board, sanding the cut edges, wiping down the surface, and attaching shelf brackets to the wall.
No DIY desk legs are necessary. And, if storage becomes an issue, feel free to add a couple of corner shelves on the wall.
23. DIY Vanity Desk with Three Compartments
A vanity desk is typically used as a makeup table. It has a spacious tabletop and several drawers and cabinets for storage. They are often equipped with a mirror and other accessories, such as a stool or chair, to make it easier for the user to get ready in the morning.
However, if you build a DIY vanity desk with a foldable design, you can use it to work on your laptop, craft, draw, write, or any other activity that requires a smooth surface. And it perfectly fits bedrooms.
We love this vanity desk from Shades of Blue Interiors, which includes three compartments that you can control independently. And each comes with its own mirror.
You can quickly download the woodworking desk plan for this project to start working on a vanity table that’s 4-feet long, 18-inches deep, and 29-inches tall.
It explains everything you need to know, from building the lower frame and desk bottom to painting the desk, attaching brackets, and adding mirrors to the lids.
24. Polished Concrete Desk – Office Table
Here’s something you don’t see every day: an office table with a polished concrete tabletop. It’s certainly sturdy and easy to maintain, making it an idea for low-maintenance home offices.
Besides, you have plenty of storage space, thanks to the custom-made drawers. And the desk is big enough to hold all your devices, including printers, scanners or fax machines. It also doubles as a home office table whenever you need the extra space.
The polished concrete tabletop has a big wooden frame. But if you feel that it’s not strong enough, you can replace it with a stainless-steel frame for heavy-duty projects. This DIY desktop table can last for years to come, so take all the time you need for this project since it’s not quick.
Instructables guides you every step of the way for making this wide desk, like building the wood desk frame, constructing the concrete form, and adding supports and embedded objects. You will also need to pour the concrete, grind and fill the holes, polish, and assemble everything.
25. Leaning Wall Ladder Desk – Ana White Desk
The leaning ladder design is unique for a small desk with shelves on top. And you can build it with simple tools and a handful of boards. It’s a straightforward project that will have you up and running in a weekend.
The ladder-style design means that you can lean it against any wall without worrying about the limited space on your desktop. And you don’t have to worry about the entire thing falling apart since you can nail everything to the wall.
Evidently, the best part about this built-in office desk is the number of shelves. You can store just about anything there, from office supplies and gadgets to plants and family photos. However, the desk area is large enough to only fit your laptop or a monitor with a keyboard if you prefer working on a desktop computer.
Ana White offers complete instructions and building plans for this cool office desk, so be sure to check it out.
26. DIY Farmhouse Desk
This DIY farmhouse desk looks so comfy. You can pull up a chair, get cozy, and get down to work. As for the design, it has a solid wood tabletop with a warm-looking finish finished with white painted legs.
A bit of storage is available under the DIY plywood desk, although it doesn’t feature any shelves. Instead, you can directly place a printer or something similar there. Or you can opt for storage baskets to keep your small items.
If you go to Handmade Haven, you’ll find out everything you need to know about this project. Start by assembling the outer desk legs, creating decorative X pieces, adding the middle desk leg, and putting together the whole desk.
Then you can add decorative V pieces, assemble the DIY desk side, add desk shelving, as well as construct and attach the tabletop. We love the rustic feel brought by this DIY studio desk.
27. Secretary’s Desk Upcycled from an Old Dresser
The secretary’s desk exudes vintage style with its raised panel design. It’s certainly a classic. And you can make sure that it will fit in your bedroom.
This project is fairly simple, so you have no excuse to skip building this beautiful piece of furniture. The Domestic Heart used a nifty and inexpensive trick: upcycling an old dresser found on Craigslist for only $10.
If you want to follow in their steps, you have to remove the drawers to keep open storage only. After removing the paint and sanding the dresser, you can install shelves by drilling pocket holes and adding drawer slides.
Feel free to stain the drawer with wood before painting it with any color you want. It’s also worth applying a finishing wax.
Basically, you need to pull out a DIY desk shelf to create a working area for your laptop and then put it back in when you’re done working; there’s plenty of legroom. You don’t even need to put your laptop away when closing the shelf since there’s enough room to store it inside your new secretary’s desk.
28. Butcher Block and Piping Desk
This butcher block and piping desk is a stylish addition to any home office. You can also use it for crafting, although the main purpose of this DIY furniture is to create a laptop workstation.
Butcher block countertops are notorious due to their high appeal and natural feel. Besides, they’re also practical since the material of the low desk is easy to clean and can last forever if you treat it right.
In this case, though, we deeply appreciate the industrial design brought by the pipes used as desk legs. They’re not only beautiful but also create a minimalistic look that suits any modern home. Furthermore, this particular model has wheels attached, making it simple to change the position of the DIY pipe desk whenever necessary.
On the downside, there are no built-in desk shelves or any other type of storage. So you will have to make do with a couple of baskets, wood crates, or custom shelves if you’re feeling up to the task. Just make sure to match the existing decor.
You can find out more about this exquisite design at House by Hoff.
29. DIY Corner Desk – Bedroom Desk Ideas
This DIY corner desk is an excellent solution for people who are looking to create a modern workstation in their home office. The best thing about it is that you can configure it however you want, which means you can use this table in multiple ways.
Be creative and don’t limit yourself to the standard table shape. You can customize the desk by adding drawers, shelves, or cabinets.
This way, you will keep all your work supplies organized and set up the best conditions for using your laptop or doing paperwork. You can even use this piece of furniture as a reading station in your bedroom.
Visit Shanty 2 Chic to discover all the necessary instructions for making this lovely DIY L-shaped desk.
30. Mounted Wall Desk for Two – Dual-Desk Home Office
A mounted wall desk for two people is a truly creative workbench idea, especially for those who are short on space. It offers an excellent solution for working on two computers on the same surface.
And, when one person isn’t working, the other can take advantage of their space. Besides, it’s impossible to not notice the splash of color in this picture.
The Crafted Life provides step-by-step instructions for making a smart dual-desk home office in this manner, without adding any desk legs to support the long narrow desk. Arguably, the most challenging part is finding and installing the wall-mounted storage system that keeps the shelves in place.
However, if you prefer something easier, we suggest using IKEA’s BOAXEL system. It allows you to fully personalize your storage needs with shelves and mesh baskets. Besides, the system is modular, so you can change the layout as your needs change in time.
31. DIY Murphy Desk
When you have kids and not enough room for all their needs, it’s vital to come up with practical storage solutions. If you’re looking for a simple desk that folds up when not in use, we suggest building your own DIY Murphy desk.
It’s one of our favorite DIY home office ideas because it offers an abundance of storage possibilities. However, you can configure your workstation however you prefer. For example, you can use it as a desk, crafting area, or drawing table.
And, when it folds up, the desk displays a chalkboard for kids to play with. At the same time, it frees up floor space for other activities.
As far as functionality goes, the Murphy desk is similar to the hideaway wall desk for kids that we talked about earlier. However, the design is different, so it all depends on your tastes.
Shanty 2 Chick offers free DIY computer desk plans for download, so be sure to get them right away.
32. DIY Gaming Desk
If you need a larger, more complex workstation for your home office or game station, try building your own DIY gaming desk. It’s an excellent idea if your room doesn’t offer much space for furniture.
The main idea behind this creative piece of furniture is to build it in such a way that it leaves plenty of floor space when you aren’t using it. So, gamers can store their gaming consoles, controllers, and games in the drawers or shelves.
And when friends come over to enjoy some friendly competition, you won’t have to worry about whether they can find a place to put their stuff while waiting for you.
The only downside is that this custom PC desk requires serious woodworking skills. However, if you’re up for the challenge, check out the full instructions provided by Popular Science.
33. Deep Desk from an Old Door
If you’re too nostalgic to part with an old door that you can’t possibly use anymore, you’re in luck. Instead, you can transform it into a deep desk with minimal woodworking skills. It’s a terrific home office storage option if you’re looking for a functional and stylish, modern and traditional desk at the same time.
What we like about this DIY project is that you can apply any finish to this workstation your heart desires. For example, you can use chalkboard paint to create a touch of magic on its surface.
And, even if you haven’t used woodworking tools in the past, you can follow the simple instructions provided by Nourish and Nestle to see everything you need to do for this computer desk idea.
You might enjoy the fact that it’s not necessary to build a tabletop underframe from the ground up. Instead, you can purchase IKEA’s BEKANT in white or black and use it to support the door.
It’s also necessary to install glass on top of the door to create an even surface. This way, the glass is easy to clean, protects the door, and lets you see it at all times.
34. Easy DIY Treadmill Desk
Many hardworking people have trouble finding time to work out at home, especially when they have to deal with kids and house chores. Some of them resort to standing desks, but standing still for a long time can be damaging for your spine.
Moving around is better, so you can make the best out of both worlds and design a DIY treadmill desk. It’s exactly how it sounds: building a small working area on top of your treadmill. You can hardly call it a desk.
Oh The Things We’ll Make has come up with a simple yet ingenious plan for this project: building a tiny desk on a treadmill using a wooden board, a wooden strip, screws, eye hooks, and bungee cords since they’re durable.
Don’t worry since you won’t damage your expensive treadmill in any way. Plus, the desk is removable. We think this is the most exciting idea on this list for health-conscious individuals.
35. Floating Desk with Shelves on Top
A floating desk with shelves on top is a great way to add storage and free up floor space in your home office. This model is perfect for a nook, thanks to its wall-to-wall design. And, since there are no legs, you don’t have to worry about bumping your feet under the desk.
For additional storage, it’s best to build floating shelves that match the desk’s appearance. This way, you will have enough room to store your devices and files, or to display plants or toys.
This DIY wall-mounted desk is easy to build, as you can see by reading the step-by-step guide provided by The Navage Patch. What you need is a butcher block countertop (birch is fine).
How to Build a Desk
Having a dedicated workspace is important for productivity, but an affordable desk that matches your home office is hard to come by. Here is how you can build a desk easily:
Step 1: Gather tools and materials
- A sheet of plywood or MDF board (3/4 x 24 x 48 inches)
- 4x L brackets
- Wood screws
- Hack saw
- Tape measure
- Screwdriver
- Sander
- Ruler
Step 2: Take the measurements
Measure and cut down the plywood sheet so that it does not rest on the floor. The top of the desk should be about 36 inches high and 30 inches deep to accommodate a standard chair. Depending on your height, you may need to make adjustments.
In the following step, measure and mark two 33 3/4-inch strips of plywood along the width of the sheet.
Step 3: Cut the plywood
Cut down the plywood strips using a hack saw. These thin boards will serve as shelf brackets for supporting thin shelves that hold books or other objects found in a typical home office setting.
Step 4: Drill holes
Drill holes into each shelf bracket using a drill bit suitable for making holes into thin wood; it should be shallow) Space each hole 2 inches from each edge and center it vertically between one another so that they line up when attached to the top of the desk.
Step 5: Create the back support
Measure and mark a 5-inch strip of plywood that will serve as the desk’s back support for the desk. Cut it down using a saw.
Step 6: Sand the wood
Sand the surfaces to smooth out the wood. If you’re using thin plywood, you can skip this step.
Step 7: Assemble the shelf brackets
Assemble the shelf brackets onto the side of your desktop by screwing each one down tightly. Use two screws at each bracket to make everything extra secure.
Step 8: Add the back support
Screw in the back support piece you cut out earlier at the center bottom – behind where your chair would go. Make sure that these screws are below the area where you plan on placing any books or objects – they will hold them without having to drill extra holes.
Step 9: Finishing touches
Place the top shelf at a height comfortable for you and fill it up with books or objects of your desire. You can also add an accent piece such as a lamp, plant pot, or something to spruce up the desk’s look.
You’ve just built yourself a stylish and affordable home office desk that would rival those stands sold at IKEA. If you feel ambitious, you can always add other features such as enclosed cabinets and drawers. Have fun personalizing your own workspace.
How to Paint a Desk
Here’s how you can easily paint your desk:
Step 1: Disassemble the desk
Disassemble the desk completely, removing all of its hardware. Place each piece in a Ziploc baggie with a corresponding label that describes where it belongs on the desk.
Step 2: Sand down any rough surfaces
Use an electric sander to smooth out any rough edges or splinters on your wood pieces.
Step 3: Clean the surfaces
Wipe down all of your pieces with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and let them dry. Allow at least 24 hours for drying since you don’t want moisture getting into the joints of your wood while they are still vulnerable. While waiting, make sure everything is labeled correctly.
Step 4: Paint the desk
Apply several thin coats of paint evenly across all surfaces; be sure that each coat has dried completely before applying the next one. This step will require at least two full cans of spray paint.
Step 5: Apply polyurethane
Use an applicator or foam brush to apply at least two coats of polyurethane. Be sure that you are applying it evenly across all surfaces for maximum protection. Wait about 15 minutes between each coat, and allow the desk to dry completely before moving on. Pro tip: you can use a blow-dryer set on low heat to speed up the drying process if necessary.
Step 6: Reassemble your desk
Reattach any hardware you removed, screwing parts together tightly; you may want to tighten them further after allowing time for reassembly. Place your new desk where it belongs, and enjoy your handy work.
How to Organize Your Desk
Organizing your desk is an important task because it will determine how much you can accomplish during the day. Your work tools should be easily accessible and your desktop clutter-free.
Besides, it’s also about creating a place where you can focus efficiently on what needs to get done right now. Only then will you be able to maintain a good workflow throughout the day.
Here are some general tips for how to organize your desk:
- Clean the desk. It seems pretty straightforward, but make sure you go all the way around your desk with a dust rag. It doesn’t take long and will make everything look lovely when you’re done.
- Hide cords. If you have a desktop computer, you probably have a ton of cords laying around. The good news is that there’s an easy way to hide these cords and keep things looking sharp. Try using wire or cable ties, which can be purchased at most hardware stores for less than $10. This way, you can thread the cables before tying them together in a knot. And it makes it easy to remove cords during cleaning or rearranging.
- Put everything in place. Discard all unused items and place the ones you need in their place. You can use drawers, bins, and even trays for office supplies, computer devices, toys, and so on. If there’s not enough room on the desk, you can place them on the floor in different configurations.
- Organize by importance. Arrange items in the most appropriate way, starting with essentials closest to you and ending up with less important things further away. Or, if this doesn’t work for you, just do it chronologically so that you start with what needs to be done first.
- Go vertical. If there’s insufficient space on your desk, beneath it, or next to it, then vertical space makes the most sense when organizing your desk. Try stacking items vertically in a simple organizer. Or, you can install shelves if you’re facing the wall, which you can also use to keep plants.
- Reassess the color scheme. You might be surprised by the level of impact that colors have on your productivity. If they’re too loud, they will distract you. So if you want to be productive in a long run, consider changing the color scheme in your workplace for something neutral.
- Add plants. The right plants not only make your room smell fresh, but they can also make it look great. And this is especially true for small and simple spaces like a home office or a studio apartment. If you don’t have green fingers, consider low-maintenance plants that require little water and won’t need your constant attention.
- Get rid of distractions. If your computer is acting as a distraction magnet, try getting rid of all unnecessary tabs or minimizing browser windows altogether. Remember that having too many windows open might make you feel overwhelmed.
- Don’t be afraid to tell people no. Even if you are a fan of multitasking, it might not work for everything, so consider saying no when asked to do something that will take up too much time or energy. It particularly applies to work-from-home individuals who receive calls from friends or family in the middle of the day because they haven’t yet grasped the concept of working from home doesn’t mean procrastinating.
DIY Desks FAQ
Learn more information about DIY desks.
How do I organize my desk?
There are several ways you can go about organizing your desk, but one of the most effective options is installing under-desk storage for your computer devices or office supplies. It will keep everything you need within reach, which makes it easier to work quickly and efficiently.
What kind of organizer should I use to make my desk look good?
You can use 3M hooks to hang up many items including calendars, photos, and cork boards. Don’t forget about other useful items like cord organizers or pencil cups. They come in different shapes and sizes, so you’ll be sure to find something that fits the style of your home office perfectly.
How do I choose the right color scheme for my workspace?
You should pick an accent color that gives you energy when looking at it. It’s also important to keep in mind that specific colors can help boost creativity or productivity. For example, green has been scientifically proven to stimulate ideas. At the same time, blue calms the brain and enables you to think clearly.
How tall is a desk?
If you’re wondering what the standard desk height is, you should know there’s no correct answer. The most important thing to consider is the height of your computer monitor, your work habits, and your preferences.
If you’re thinking about building a standing desk, be sure to choose what’s most comfortable for your height. At the same time, there should be enough space beneath the desk to hold a barstool if you feel like sitting.
Are standing desks good for you?
Yes, standing desks are good for your health. Studies have shown that sitting for extended periods of time can increase your risk of serious conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.
However, a better idea is to remain active while working at the desk. One solution is to resort to a DIY treadmill desk, which we have already covered earlier in this article.
Final Thoughts on DIY Desks
DIY desk projects may vary in appearance, style, and design. However, the underlying idea is always the same: making a sturdy surface where you can focus on your work without worrying about damaging the desk itself.
DIY desks are a great way to save some money and add some personality to your workspace. Since you can decorate any of these desks, they will fit in with any modern or rustic decor. In the end, building a desk is stress-free and fun.
What are your favorite DIY desk ideas? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.