Flip Down Wall Art Desk
This do it yourself kids desk folds up to become a wall chalkboard! Stores art supplies and even a paper roll holder! Super easy step by step instructions to DIY your own!
Specifications
| Project type | Kids Tables and Chairs |
|---|---|
| Room | Kids and Toys |
| Style | Children's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
| Estimated cost | $20 - $50 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 1 - piece 3/4" plywood 16" x 24"
- 1 - 1x4 @ 10 feet long
- 1 set hinge supports or wire or chain (see comments)
- 1 set basic hinges
- 3 D ring hangers
- Chalkboard paint (optional)
- Moulding or trim (optional)
Cut List
1 - 1x4 @ 11 1/4"
1 - 1x4 @ 12 3/4"
2 - 1x4 @ 14 1/2"
2 - 1x4 @ 24"
1 - 3/4" Plywood @ 24" x 16"
1/2" dowel, 30" long (optional for the paper roll)
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- drill
- circular saw
- nailer
- sander
- level
- countersink drill bit
Step-by-step Instructions
I built this project with 2" finish nails, but you can also use screws or the Kreg Jig.
Start in the center and work your way outward so you don't get caught in a corner. Mark all joints and fasten with glue. Please read all comments when installing the hinge supports - per reader comments, depending on your hinge supports, you may need to add extra clearance for the supports.
Step 2
Mark joints and attach in place.
Step 3
Now the top and bottom. Drill 1/2" diameter holes for paper roll here. Leave dowel long so you can roll the outside ends to roll up the craft roll.
Step 4
You do not have to put the trim on, I did because my chalkboard edges were so ugly! I used window casing, but you can use anything. Attach the top with simple hinges on the bottom.
Step 5
Use D Ring hanging brackets to hang on the wall. Be SURE to attach to at least one stud in the wall, and properly hang in drywall on two other locations.
Step 6
UPDATE: Per reader comments, this desk may not fit standard support hinges with the paper roll holder. I used a simple chain on the outside coupled with euro style non mortise hinges that already provide support and it's plenty strong. If I had placed the hinges inset more, the chain could have been put on the inside of the desk as well - but it just worked out better on the outside for me. Other workarounds could be flipping the desk over so the paper roll is to the top, or using a wider width board for the outer frame, with a slightly narrower width board (for example a 1x4 frame with 1x3 shelves) to fit the support hinges. My apologies to anyone having issues. Thank you to those of you who have left feedback, it is greatly appreciated. Ana
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/flip-down-wall-art-desk