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Loaded with storage and plenty of surface space to spread out, this D.I.Y. desk project encapsulates the fabulous functionality of modern industrial interiors. The desk is supported at one end by a four-drawer metal cabinet (without the supplied castors), held in place with hidden angle brackets. The other end is a simple make – a painted timber frame – that helps to support the timber panel benchtop.
Photo credit: Natasha Dickins and Larnie Nicolson
At the ends of each leg, use a combination square to mark two holes, 10mm from the edges and 10mm and 30mm from the base, drilling with the countersinking bit.
Apply timber adhesive to the end-grain of a rail, position it flush against the end of a leg, clamp to the work surface and secure with 75mm screws. Turn the frame, clamp and repeat with the second rail, then attach the second leg.
Sand the frame all over, removing any loose timber and splinters around the screws. Fill the holes with filler, leave to dry, then sand until smooth. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth, then apply two coats of paint with a mini roller.
On the underside of the panel, measure 250mm from the end and 50mm from the edges to position the frame. Stagger four countersunk holes along the rail to secure with 60mm screws.
Tip: To prevent the cabinet scratching the floor, cut flooring underlay to fit underneath it before positioning the top.
At the opposite end of the panel, centre two brackets 50mm and 550mm from the edge, securing with 20mm button head screws. At the back, secure a bracket 30mm from the edge and 275mm from the end. When securing brackets, ensure they're positioned with the backs facing inwards to be flush with the cabinet. Enlist a second pair of hands to lift the panel, positioning it with the brackets around the assembled cabinet.
Tip: If the desk is positioned against the wall, the top won't slip back. But if it needs more support, screw the brackets into the cabinet by drilling through the holes in the side and back brackets with a 3mm drill bit, securing with 8G x 12mm self-tapping sheet metal screws.
Rustic computer desk
Workshop member jeevanfranciz built this desk using pine, coating the top with walnut stain and the legs with vintage white matte paint for a brilliant finish.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
