Built-In Desk

Tools:

table
straightedge
hammer
nail set
spring clamps
circular saw
router
drill
drill bits
square corners
C-clamps
stud finder
folding ruler
pencil
dust mask
safety glasses
4x8 cabinet grade plywood
solid 3/4x1/4-inch birch strips
8-foot strip of 1-1/2 x 3/4-inch solid birch
glue
nails

1. First carefully measure the dimensions of the nook for your new desk. Cut the top of the desk first from the plywood. Set up on the lawn for the cut and use a straight edge and circular saw to make the cut (figure A). As always, wear eye protection and a dust mask when working with power tools.

2. Next cut the piece to width, then cut shelves from the plywood until you have all the pieces you need.

3. Use a router to cut the dado grooves in the plywood for your shelves (figure B).

4. Now assemble the desk unit. Fit the shelves into the dado grooves, then use square corners and spring clamps to hold it in position nice and square (figure C).

5. Pre-drill holes through the side and into the edge of the shelves (figure D), then insert low-profile screws to secure the pieces.

6. Next cut strips of birch trim to cover the cut edges along the front of the unit. Dab some glue along the back of the strips, hold them in place while you drill pilot holes then attach with finishing nails (figure E). Use a nail set to sink the nail heads below the surface.

7. You can fill in over the nail heads by mixing a paste of sawdust and glue.

8. Move the completed central shelf piece into place, then attach supports for the desktop (figure F). Attach the supports into wall studs using wood screws. Use a stud finder to locate studs within the wall.

9. Now put the desktop piece into position (figure G). Secure it to the support brackets by driving screws through the top of the desk into the brackets.

10. Stain or paint the desk.