Simple Low Cost Desk/Table

This is a modified version of the desk from the Ana White website. Keeping with my upcycled theme, this project was built from the top of an old desk. If you prefer, the top can be made from 2x12s. I’ve also included a quick video of the build along with a PDF version of the plans.

Video:

Drawing:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B21TbB8gGNQbMFZER...

Tools/Materials

Tools:

Saw (Table or Miter)
Drill and bits
Pocket hole jig (optional)
Nail gun (optional)
Sander
Tape measure
Pencil

Materials:

Table Top (48” x 24” or two 2x12x48)
Five 8 foot long 2x4 (think ahead with the cuts)
One 8 foot long 1x4
Screws or Nails
Glue
Wood filler
Paint or Stain

Cut Wood for Legs

You will be building two identical leg assemblies. Cut the following pieces:

Leg Assy - Step 1

Attach the “Leg – Horizontal – Thin” sections to the “Leg – Vertical”. Pre-drill and use a countersink bit for the holes. I used 2 ½” deck screws and glue for this attachment.

Leg Assy - Step 2

Add “supports” as shown. I used a nail gun and glue for these connections. A second option is to use a pocket hole jig.

Leg Assy - Step 3

Attach “Leg – Horizontal – 45 Degree” to the top and bottom of leg assemblies as shown. I used a nail gun and glue for this attachment.

Leg Assy - Step 4

Before installing the “Leg – Horizontal – Thick” sections, pre-drill the pocket hole jig holes to 2 of the 4 pieces. These holes will be used to secure the legs to the top. Attach “Leg – Horizontal – Thick” to the top and bottom of leg assemblies as shown. Again, I used a nail gun and glue for this attachment.

Leg Assy - Step 5

Add the feet as shown.

Repeat

Repeat process for the second leg assembly.

Cut Horizontal and Angle Supports

Cut horizontal and angle supports as shown. Think ahead at this step and add the pocket hole jig holes to the ends and to 2 of the horizontal pieces that will be used to secure the top.

Attach Horizontal and Angled Supports

Attach horizontal supports as shown. This step will most likely require two people.

Optional: Add angle supports. Note that I didn’t include this step on this version due to the smaller size. The large version shown below includes the supports

Sand / Paint

Wood filler could be used at this point - depends on how “rustic” you want the desk to look. Sand assembly as desired. I painted both sections at this point since it’s easier to paint separately.

Attach Top

Attach top using the pocket hole drill holes. Note that screws or nails can be used in lieu of the pocket hole jig attachment method. Just counter sink the holes and use wood filler to cover the holes.