How to Build an Automobile Laptop Desk

Cut a piece of 1-inch wood to a size of 16 by 12 inches. Using a router, round off the edges. On the best side of the board, use the router and cut in a groove on the top 1/2 inch from the top and 1 inch from either side.

Sand the board with a medium-grit sandpaper and then again with a fine-grit sandpaper, making it smooth. Use a stain-and-sealer combination and stain the board. Allow to dry and stain again.

Cut a piece of fabric, 18 by 14 inches. Cut the cardboard strips, two of them 17 inches long and two 10 inches long. Glue the 18-inch right side of the fabric to the 17-inch strip of cardboard by bunching it up a little. Then glue the other 18-inch side, followed by the two 14-inch sides onto the 10-inch strips. The ends of the short sides have already been glued to the 17-inch strips, which is why the side strips seem so small. The dimensions when done gluing should be 17 inches by 11 inches.

Lay the board down on a table with the bottom facing up. Lay the fabric on top with the right side of the fabric and the cardboard strips facing up. Flip a 17-inch strip under on the 18-inch side of the board, 1 inch in. Staple through the fabric and strip into the wood. Repeat with two other strips, leaving the last side open.

Stuff the fabric with poly fiberfill until it feels comfortable, not overstuffed. Flip the last strip over and staple shut. Turn the lap desk over and sit it on your lap. The groove at the top is to hold a pen, pencil or crayon while the car is moving.