Modular Office
Build your own office with our Modular Office Collection of plans! In this woodworking plan, you can build a narrow double drawer base for that can support a desktop. These roomy drawers can be used for storing files, extra supplies, crafts and more. include full diagrams, shopping and cut lists.
Specifications
| Project type | Desk, Desk Systems and Project Table Plans |
|---|---|
| Room | Storage Solutions |
| Style | Farmhouse Furniture |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Estimated cost | $20 - $50 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 1 - 3/4" plywood half sheet (4x4) ripped into strips 15-1/2" wide x 4 feet long OR one strip, 15-1/2" wide x 8 feet long
- 1/4" plywood, 48" x 24" (can use smaller scraps, you'll need two pieces 17" x 14")
- 1 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long
- 1 - 1x4 @ 4 feet long
- 1 - 1x12 @ 3 feet long
- 2 sets of 14" drawer slides (white euro slides recommended)
- We recommend a Kreg Jig for joinery with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws, but you can also build with 2" self tapping wood screws
- Iron on edge banding if you want to finish the front exposed plywood edges to match the wood grain. You'll need a razor knife to trim excess off. If you plan to paint, you can fill the plywood edges with wood filler and sand smooth.
Cut List
Cabinet
- 2 - 3/4" plywood @ 15-1/2" x 29" - sides
- 2 - 1x4 @ 18" - base trim
- 4 - 1x2 @ 18" - top and middle trim
- 1 - 3/4" plywood @ 15-1/2" x 19-1/2" - top
Drawers
- 4 - 1x8 @ 14"
- 4 - 1x8 @ 15-1/2"
- 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 17" x 14"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- drill
- circular saw
- nailer
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
TIP: If you want to finish the front edges of plywood with edge banding, do so now instead of later. You only need to apply edge banding to the side front edges. We recommend attaching the 1x boards to the plywood with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws, but you can also use 2" self tapping wood screws and glue. Clamping down the board while you attach the plywood can help if you don't have an extra person to help hold things in place.
Step 2
Attach top with 1-1/4" brad nails and glue, all outside edges are flush.
Step 3
Build the drawer with either 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws or 1-1/4" brad nails and glue. Attach bottoms with 3/4" brad nails and glue. NOTE: You can build a deeper drawer by using 1x10s instead of 1x8s. You can save some money and use 1x6s but the drawer sides won't be as tall. Install drawer members of the drawer slides on the bottom of the drawers. The drawer box should be inset 3/4" from the front edge of the cabinet.
Step 4
Install cabinet members of the drawer slides inside the cabinet.
Step 5
Test drawer slide fit. If you need to adjust, now is the time. Make sure everything slides smoothly and easily.
Step 6
Position 1x12 on front of the drawer. The cabinet should be setting upright (Do NOT lay on back to attach). Attach with a few 1-1/4" brad nails from front avoiding areas where you may add drawer hardware. Remove drawer and add 1-1/4" screws from back to further attach.
Step 7
Add side trim with 1-1/4" brad nails and glue.
Step 8
Measure and cut to fit the front trim as it may vary slightly on final step and you want this piece to look nice. Attach with 1-1/4" 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/modular-office-narrow-drawer-base-unit