How to Make Wall Desks
Make a space-saving wall desk that anchors directly to the wall. This desk saves floor space and can be made in different ways. Some types are made to hinge to the wall and fold up while not in use. Another variety uses two modules connected to the wall for a computer monitor and a keyboard.
Items Needed:
- Hammer
- Screwdriver
- Saw
- Sandpaper
- Plywood
- Lumber
- Wood glue
- Paint or varnish
- Carpentry square
- Shelf brackets or hinges
- Screws
- Nails
- Take measurements of the desk area in order to determine the board lengths necessary. Draft a plan on paper to follow as you cut the boards and assemble the desk. Use the draft to determine how many and what size cuts you will need to make.
- Make a fold-down desk using hinges. Attach two hinges to a finished board and attach the hinges to studs in the wall. Attach a hinge to the end of the desk to attach a folding leg. Fold the leg out to support the desk while in use. Install a hook and eye set to the end top of the desktop to hinge the desk up to the wall when not in use. This method is similar to a fold-up Murphy bed or fold-out ironing board.
- Make a sturdier frame by assembling a rectangular form from eight pieces of ¾-inch plywood. This forms a rectangular desktop with cross braces to add stability. Cut the plywood at an angle so the sides meet forming a right angle or straight-cut the boards to attach at the ends. Nail the boards together with straight nails, or use a combination of wood glue and nails.
- Cut and sand the top board that will act as the top of the desk. Allow at least a quarter of an inch overhang from the rectangular form that the desktop will attach.
- Paint or varnish the desktop and bevel the sides to create a finished look and prolong the life of the wood.
- Install shelf brackets onto the wall and attach a finished board to the top of the bracket. Be sure to use sturdy brackets connected to the studs in the wall for added stability.