How to Make a Latched Tray on a Desk

Measure to determine dimensions of the keyboard tray. Dimensions will vary according to the size of the keyboard and if room for a mouse pad is added. Measure the length of the keyboard from right to left, add additional space for the mouse pad and about two to three inches for comfort. Measure the depth of the keyboard from front to back, and, if desired, add three inches for a wrist rest and another two inches to prevent the keyboard from always being at the edge.

Cut plywood or hardwood to dimensions. Essentially, a keyboard tray is a sliding shelf that can be made out of many materials. Wood is the often the easiest and least expensive option.

Sand the edges. Finish with a stain or paint, or add a laminate to inexpensive plywood that matches most laminates on commercially produced desks.

Locate and mark drill holes on the sides of the shelf. Most keyboard slider hardware will include a drilling template printed on paper. Position the shelf template on the edges of the wood shelf. At each indicated point draw an “X” on the edge of the shelf. Be sure to purchase the sliders that include an integrated latch that releases the slide with the push of a button.

Drill pilot holes for the screws on the left and right edges of the shelf. Use a drill bit with the same diameter of the screws included in the hardware kit and drill through each “X” a depth not greater than the length of the screws.

Attach the hardware to the shelf. Position the slider hardware along each edge of the shelf and secure in place with provided screws.

Locate and mark drill holes on the underside of the desktop. Many hardware kits will include a second template for installation of the hardware to the desk. Get underneath the desk and hold the template in place to mark and “X” in the locations for the left and right hardware.

Drill pilot holes in the underside of the desk. Use a drill bit with the same diameter of the screws included in the hardware kit and drill through each “X” a depth not greater than the length of the screws.

Attach the keyboard tray unit to the desk with provided screws. This can be awkward, so, if possible, obtain assistance to help hold the shelf and its hardware in place while it's being installed.