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$55 Fancy X Desk

You can build this desk with just a few tools and off the shelf lumber. This farmhouse style desk looks like a million bucks, but only cost $55 to build. with step by step diagrams, shopping and cut list by.

$55 Fancy X Desk

Specifications

Project typeDesk, Desk Systems and Project Table Plans
RoomCraftroom
StyleFarmhouse Furniture
DifficultyIntermediate

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

$55 Fancy X Desk dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 5 – 2x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 – 1x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 2 – 2x12 @ 6 feet long OR 4 – 2x6 @ 6 feet long
  • 2 ½” self tapping wood screws for countersinking
  • 2 ½” Pocket Hole screws

Cut List

  • 2 – 2x4 @ 20”
  • 4 – 1x4 @ 18”
  • 8 – 2x4 @ 10 ¾” (long point to long point, both ends cut NOT parallel at 45 degrees off square)
  • 4 – 2x4 @ 21” ¾” (long point to long point, both ends cut NOT parallel at 45 degrees off square)
  • 4 – 2x4 @ 21”
  • 4 – 1x4 @ 3 ½”
  • 3 – 2x4 @ 59”
  • 2 – 2x4 @ 30 ¾” (long point to short point, both ends cut parallel at 45 degrees off square) - CUT TO FIT
  • 2 – 2x12 @ 72” OR 4 2x6 @ 72” - Tabletop

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • kreg-jig
  • drill
  • compound miter saw
  • sander
  • countersink drill bit

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Start off by making two giant Is.

$55 Fancy X Desk — step 1
2

Step 2

And then add the bracing with the countersink bit.

$55 Fancy X Desk — step 2
3

Step 3

Followed by the top and bottom, ends mitered.

$55 Fancy X Desk — step 3
4

Step 4

And then an easy step, just glue and screw the 2x4s on top. It's the stacking that makes these legs so beautiful!

$55 Fancy X Desk — step 4
5

Step 5

$55 Fancy X Desk — step 5
6

Step 6

Now it's starting to look like a desk!

$55 Fancy X Desk — step 6
7

Step 7

Now add the cross bracing...

$55 Fancy X Desk — step 7
8

Step 8

And finally the top! If you are using pocket holes, I recommend building top first, and then attaching top to base. Also, you could substitute out plywood for the top for a smoother writing surface.

$55 Fancy X Desk — step 8
9

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.

Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/55-fancy-x-desk