DIY Desk for a Toddler

Assembly

• 1

  Measure and cut two squares of 3/4-inch thick medium-density fiberboard, each 18 inches by 18 inches. Cut another piece of MDF that’s 30 inches by 18 inches.

• 2

  Cut two lengths of aluminium brackets, each 18 inches long. Drill holes 3-inches apart on both sides of the bracket. Attach one of the brackets to one edge of the square MDF pieces with screws, and repeat with the other bracket and other square. These will be the leg panels for the desk.

• 3

  Stand the long piece of MDF, which will be the desk top, so the long side is against the worktop. Hold one of the leg panels at one end of the long piece to form an L shape, with the free edge of the aluminium bracket under the edge of the desk top. Attach the bracket to the desk top with screws. Repeat with the other leg panel at the other end of the desk top.

• 4

  Cut a piece of MDF that 12 inches by 30 inches. Lay the desk on its side. Measure 6 inches on the edge of each leg panel and mark. Rest the piece you’ve just cut so that the lower end is on these marks; half this panel should extend above the level of the desk drop. Screw this piece in place along the edges of the leg panels and desk top. Stand the desk upright.

Finishing

• 5

  Fill any imperfections in the MDF surfaces with wood putty. Allow to dry, then sand the surfaces with an orbital sander until smooth.

• 6

  Put priming filler in the tank of the paint sprayer. Put on safety goggles. Working in a well-ventilated area, spray the entire desk. Leave to dry.

• 7

  Spray the desk with acrylic gloss paint, working with even strokes along the surfaces. Leave to dry. Inspect your work and then add a second coat of paint. Leave to dry. Spray on a third and final coat if needed.