An Easy to Build Desk Perfect for a Small Space
This desk is the perfect piece for any small space such as a bedroom, living room or kitchen area. The plans to build a plain desk feature a roomy top with a corner shelf attached to the legs below.
The front has a decorative cutout with beveled edges to attach to the legs while the rest of the pieces use straight cuts. This plan is suitable for all skill levels, and would make a great weekend project!
Materials:
- 1-1/2″ pocket hole screws (<– affiliate link!)
- 2″ brad nails
- Edge banding, optional (<– affiliate link!)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (80, 120, 220 grits)
- Finishing supplies
Lumber:
- 1 – 1×6 at 8′
- 2 – 2×2 at 8′
- 1 – 4′ x 8′ at 3/4″ plywood
Cut List:
- 5- 2×2 at 29-1/4″ – Legs
- 2 – 1×6 at 10-1/2″ – Sides
- 2 – 1×6 at 28-1/4″ – Back
- 1 – 1×6 at 24-1/2″ – Front
- 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 31-3/4″ x 31-3/4″ – Top
- 1 – 3/4″ plywood at 31-3/4″ x 31-3/4″ – Shelf
Notes About the Project:
- Edge banding will be applied to the edges of the plywood prior to assembly
- Sand all of the pieces before putting everything together
- See the drawings for notes regarding the placement of the 1x6s on the legs
Step One
Cut the pieces for the legs, the sides and the back pieces. With the pocket hole jig set for 3/4″ material, drill pocket holes in each end of the 1×6 pieces. Secure a shorter piece to two legs using glue and 1-1/2″ pocket hole screws. The inside face of this piece will be flush with the inside faces of the legs. Repeat for the other short 1×6 piece.
Secure the longer pieces to the remaining leg using glue and 1-1/2″ pocket hole screws. The outside face of the back pieces will be flush with the outside faces of the leg. Secure the opposite ends to the side assemblies (see drawing!) to form the frame.
Step Two
Cut the piece for the front and cut a 45° bevel in each end. Mark the position for the cut out, and cut using a jigsaw. (Trace a soup can to make the rounded edges!) Secure the front to the front legs using glue and 2″ brad nails. The inside face of the front piece will be flush with the inside of the side legs.
Step Three
Cut the piece for the shelf, and cut the notches to fit around the legs with a jigsaw. Drill pocket holes as shown so that the shelf can be mounted to the legs. Secure the shelf using glue and 1-1/2″ pocket hole screws.
Step Four
Cut the piece for the top. The back (corner) edges will be flush with the back pieces, and will overhang the side legs and front by approximately 1/2″. Secure the top to the frame using glue and 2″ brad nails.
Finish the desk as desired. I can see a giant mandala painted on the top! Hmmm… another project for me!
Have questions about the plans to build a plain corner desk? Leave a comment below!
