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How to make a simple and stylish D.I.Y. desk

By Bunnings magazine May/ June 2023

A wooden table with two chairs, and a laptop on it.

Overview

Two standard finger-jointed timber panels are the perfect size for this home office project. You’ll need a jigsaw to execute the curved corner cuts, but the laminate finish is lovely and simple – it just needs a light sand and wipe-on wax.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Mark and cut the top

    On the back of a timber panel, mark 300mm in from both the sides and the ends. Tap in a nail. Attach string to a pencil, then wrap the string around the nail and mark the curves from edge to edge. Cut the curves with a jigsaw.

    Hands using jigsaw to cut curves into plant of wood.
  2. 2

    Cut two legs

    On the other panel, cut two 750mm legs using a circular saw with straightedge. Mark 250mm down from the top and 300mm in from the sides. Tap in the nail with pencil and string. Mark the curves from edge to edge (top section is flat). Cut with a jigsaw.

    Overhead shot of a wood plank with curved edges standing upright on concrete.
  3. 3

    Sand the edges

    Round over all the edges, except the top and base of the legs – using a sander with 60-grit disc. Change the disc to 120-grit to smooth again, then 180-grit. Wipe away the dust with a damp cloth and position the top face down on a drop sheet.

    Hands using a sander to finish curved edges of wood plank.
  4. 4

    Secure brackets on inside and outside

    On the outside of the legs, secure two 20mm brackets against the flat section with 25mm screws. On the inside, secure the 50mm brackets slightly offset. Centre a 1200mm pine rail, with the legs against it. Ensure the overhang is even and mark around them.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Pre-drill screw holes by placing painter’s tape 20mm from the end of a 3mm drill bit as a depth guide.
    Curved plank of wood standing upright on longer plank of wood lying flat on ground to form legs.
  5. 5

    Use adhesive to secure

    Apply timber adhesive along the top of a leg. Reposition and secure the leg using brackets. Apply adhesive along a 19mm side of the centre rail. Position it against the leg and secure it from the outside with two 50mm screws. Secure the remaining leg to the top and the rail.

    Person attaching table legs to table top with through brackets.
  6. 6

    Apply hard wax oil

    Evenly space four 20mm brackets along each side of the centre rail. Leave them slightly offset, and secure through the holes with 25mm screws. Apply two coats of hard wax oil to the entire desk with a clean cloth, leaving to dry after each coat. Place the desk in position.

    Person using drill to attach brackets to the underneath of the table top and inside of the table leg.
  7. 7

    Keep in mind…

    • It’s important to work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask when using cutting tools and sanding.
    • Enlist a second pair of hands to help move the desk, avoiding sideways pressure on the legs.
    • For stability, position the desk against a wall – this desk is not designed for climbing or sitting on.
    • *Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.
  8. 8

    Add a pop of colour to your home office

    Enlivening your place of work can help improve your mood and productivity. Check out our guide to choose the best colours for your space.

    Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.



    Photo Credit: Geneva Vanderzeil/CollectiveGen

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Health & Safety

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.