DIY Computer Desks

Work in a well-ventilated area to prevent exposure to sawdust and fumes. A garage or shed is an ideal place to build your computer desk.

Sand all the wood to remove splinters and rough edges before beginning. Ensure that all pieces are measured and cut to exact lengths before building the desk.

Align the edge of a 2-foot 2-by-4 with the face of a 3 1/2-foot 2-by-4 to create a right-angled L shape. This will form part of the frame of the desk. Attach the wood with 4-inch nails. Hammer in one nail every two inches.

Repeat step three with the other 2-foot and 3 1/2-foot 2-by-4s. This should leave you with two L-shaped sections. These will be the frame for your desk.

Align the two parts of the frame and attach them with nails.

Attach one of the 3-foot 2-by-4 pieces to a corner of the frame using the L-brackets and carriage bolts. Align the 2-by-4 with the corner of the 2-foot side of the desk.

Repeat this process with the other three leg pieces.

Set the desk upright on its legs and check it for stability. Place the remaining 3 1/2-foot 2-by-4 in the center of the top frame to create a more stable support for the top of the desk. Attach the 2-by-4 with 4-inch nails.

Place the plywood sheet on top of the desk frame and align the edges of the sheet with the edges of the frame. This will be the top surface of the desk.

Attach the desk top to the frame with 4-inch nails. Hammer in one nail every 4 to 6 inches along each side of the frame to ensure that it stays in place.

Apply wood stain to the finished desk. Paint along the grain of the wood to bring out the natural colors. Allow the desk to dry for 24 to 48 hours before bringing it into the house and placing the computer on it.