Farmhouse Desk
For about $50 and with just a couple tools, you can build this desk!
Specifications
| Project type | Desk, Desk Systems and Project Table Plans |
|---|---|
| Room | office |
| Style | Farmhouse Furniture |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 3 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
- 2 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
- 1 - 1x8 @ 8 feet long
- 1 - 1x12 @ 8 feet long
- 40 - 2-1/2" long self tapping screws (recommend star bit #8 or #9)
- 1-1/4" long brad nails
- wood glue
NOTE: The wood I used for this project is "whitewood" boards available at most home improvement stores and construction 2x4s and 2x2 furring strips. The wood species are different, but everything stained up fine despite the differences.
Cut List
- 4 - 2x4 @ 29-1/4" - legs
- 2 - 2x4 @ 19" - leg bottom support
- 2 - 2x2 @ 19" - leg top support
- 2 - 2x2 @ 43-1/2" - front/back aprons
- 1- 2x2 @ 16" -center support
- 2 - 1x8 @ 43-1/2" - bottom shelf
- 2 - 1x12 @ 47-1/2"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- drill
- compound miter saw
- nailer
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Build two leg sets with the 2-1/2" long screws.
Step 2
Scribe the X bracing detail on the ends and cut with a miter saw or circular saw. My angles were 36 degrees and 16 degrees, but this may vary depending on your wood thickness and building accuracy. Attach with the 2-1/2" long screws.
Step 3
Attach the two leg sets together with the 2x2 aprons and the 2-1/2" long screws.
Step 4
Attach bottom shelf back board to back legs with glue and brad nails.
Step 5
Attach bottom shelf board to the legs base and to the 1x8 back board with brad nails and wood glue.
Step 6
Attach 1x12s on top with even overhangs on ends, flush to the back, with the brad nails and glue.
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/farmhouse-desk