A drafting desk is a must-have for any artist, architect, or engineer. It provides a large, adjustable surface that allows you to work comfortably on large projects. You can purchase a drafting desk, but it is much more rewarding and cost-effective to build your own. This article will guide you through the process of building a sturdy and functional drafting desk.
Materials You Will Need:
- Lumber:
- Two 2x4s (8 feet long) for the legs
- Two 2x4s (4 feet long) for the top frame
- One sheet of plywood (3/4 inch thick) for the tabletop
- Two 1x2s (8 feet long) for the support braces
- Hardware:
- Wood screws (2 1/2 inch)
- Wood glue
- 4 swivel casters (optional)
- Tools:
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Circular saw or hand saw
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Clamps (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cut the Lumber
1. Legs: Cut the two 2x4s into four pieces, each 29 inches long. These will be the legs of your drafting desk. 2. Top Frame: Cut the two 4-foot 2x4s into two pieces each, measuring 29 inches. These pieces will form the top frame of the desk. 3. Tabletop: Cut the plywood sheet to your desired size. For a standard drafting desk, you'll want a tabletop measuring approximately 36 inches wide by 48 inches long. 4. Support Braces: Cut the two 1x2s into four pieces, each 24 inches long. These will provide extra support for the tabletop.
Step 2: Assemble the Legs
1. Create a Rectangle: Lay out the four leg pieces on a flat surface. Using wood glue and screws, join the legs together to form a rectangle, making sure the inside of the rectangle is 29 inches wide. 2. Strengthen the Joints: Add a brace to the bottom of the rectangle to reinforce the legs. Use one of the 24-inch 1x2s for this brace. 3. Attach the Top Frame: Place the top frame pieces onto the leg assembly, aligning the ends of the frame pieces with the inside edge of the leg assembly. Secure the top frame to the legs using wood glue and screws.
Step 3: Attach the Tabletop
1. Place the Tabletop: Carefully position the cut plywood sheet onto the top frame, making sure it sits flush with the frame. 2. Secure with Braces: Attach the remaining three support braces to the underside of the tabletop, evenly spaced along the length of the tabletop. Use wood glue and screws to secure these braces.
Step 4: Finish the Desk (Optional)
1. Sanding: Sand the entire desk surface to smooth out any rough edges. This will also prepare the surface for painting or staining. 2. Paint or Stain: If desired, you can paint or stain the desk to give it a finished look. 3. Add Casters: Attach the swivel casters to the bottom of the legs. This will make your drafting desk easy to move around your workspace.
Tips:
- For added strength, you can consider using thicker lumber for the legs and top frame.
- Use clamps to hold the pieces together while you're screwing them in.
- Pre-drill holes before driving screws to prevent the wood from splitting.
- Apply wood glue to all joints for a more secure bond.
Conclusion:
Building a drafting desk is a rewarding project that can save you money and give you a sense of pride in your craftsmanship. With a little time and effort, you can build a sturdy and functional drafting desk that will meet all your needs. Remember to prioritize safety and always wear protective eyewear when working with power tools.