Make a computer desk with your own hands. DIY corner computer desk
Personal working space largely determines the quality of the work performed, because it determines how comfortable and productive the work process will be. To a large extent, this applies to the desktop, which should be user-friendly. Constructors and designers involved in the development of office and home buildings offer a lot original ideas, but you can try to bring your own ideas into reality on your own.
What do manufacturers offer?
Before you start working on your own project, you should familiarize yourself with the offers on the furniture market, from which you can learn a lot for yourself interesting ideas. Let's take the IKEA hypermarket as a platform for finding inspiration, where there is always a huge selection of products from different price categories. The work tables available in the catalog of the largest furniture retailer look laconic and high-quality, but lack any special “zest.”
Other manufacturers are doing no better - either the design frankly “smacks” of the last century, or the design is too bulky for modern interiors. However, among all the variety there are also original models that are not overloaded with unnecessary parts and are easy to use. For example, a tabletop adapted to accommodate a laptop, tablet and other gadgets looks very stylish and ergonomic, but not all users can afford its price. However, this is not yet a reason to refuse the table you like, because you can build something similar with your own hands.
Drawing up an engineering project
The first thing you should decide on at the design stage is the functionality of the future table. Among the proposed options may be placement on the tabletop of a contactless phone charger, a built-in pilot with an extension cord passed through the table leg, areas under marker board and glass for notes, holes for different types gadgets and much more.For our future table, we will focus on the following functional elements and details:
- central holes for removing wires from the laptop and additional passive cooling;
- deep recess for a coffee cup;
- places to place a tablet and smartphone with holes for connecting a charger;
- small stands for various little things- pencils, pens, flash drives, etc.
Prototype making
After drawing up a virtual layout, an idea may come to mind to use a ready-made, inexpensive table, for example, from the same IKEA, to implement it. However, this trick will not work, since almost all inexpensive countertops are hollow inside, and it is technically impossible to make the necessary grooves and holes in them.
Another option is to purchase a shield of specified dimensions (1200 mm x 600 mm x 40 mm), made from solid wood. Here we need to understand that not all tree species are suitable for our purposes. For example, pine will be too soft for a countertop, as a result of which chips and cracks may appear on its surface during processing. To prevent this from happening, experts recommend choosing hard wood types such as beech, oak and ash.
Next comes the most difficult stage of making a table - searching for a company engaged in milling and laser engraving of wood. Despite the apparent simplicity of the task, not all craftsmen are ready to undertake it, so you will have to spend time finding craftsmen who will not “raise” the price for their services to the cosmic level. We managed to find such wonderful guys who, moreover, helped with finalizing the project and gave useful recommendations and advice.
Tabletop processing stage
After all the holes, grooves and recesses have been implemented according to the original plan, the tabletop must be processed accordingly to bring it into working order. First, all surfaces are sanded using sandpaper, including internal sides holes. To achieve ideal smoothness, you will need different types of sandpaper grit - 100, 280 and 360. The manual sanding process can take several hours, as it requires special care when performing.
After obtaining a smooth surface without roughness and burrs, you can begin the final processing of the wood. To do this, you can use varnish, paint or oil, depending on the user’s personal preferences. We chose the latter option, inspired by the numerous benefits of the oil:
- absence of harmful fumes, environmental friendliness;
- resistance to impact high temperatures and moisture;
- quick drying in a few hours;
- preservation of the natural structure of the wood surface;
- ease of use and subsequent operation.
Each layer of oil coating should be dried for two hours, after which you can begin installing the support legs. For our model, we used ready-made IKEA legs, and installing them was perhaps the easiest step in the whole idea of making a table.
Summarizing
One month was spent on implementing the idea “from scratch”, during which the following tasks were consistently implemented:- 1 week - registration own ideas, creating a list of necessary functions, drawing up ideas about appearance future table;
- Week 2 - making a 3D model and drawings using computer programs, search suitable craftsmen, professionally engaged in milling;
- Week 3 - performing milling and engraving work;
- Week 4 - carrying out work on finishing tabletops, installation of legs.
Gained experience in self-production modern computer desk allowed us to draw a number of important practical conclusions:
- V retail sales difficult to find suitable model desktop;
- when purchasing a furniture panel for a tabletop, you need to give preference durum varieties wood;
- when searching for milling cutting services, you may encounter difficulties;
- oil coating - good view finishing for wood.
For convenient homework you don't have to buy an expensive one computer desk, it is quite possible to do it yourself. This item furniture can be assembled from the most various materials, choosing the desired shape and configuration. To make a corner one, you need not only to select the appropriate dimensions, but also to determine what exactly the structure should have and what functions it should perform. Before starting work, it is recommended to draw up a detailed project or drawing, which will display all the required information (Image 1).
Image 1. Diagram of a computer desk.
Computer desk project
How to make a computer desk with your own hands without outside help? It will be necessary not only to compile detailed drawing, but also calculate the materials and cut them.
Before drawing up a project, pay attention to the following parameters:
Image 2. DIY drawing of a computer desk.
- table functionality. Consider whether it should have drawers, pull-out shelves, special stands for equipment and books;
- It is important to provide the dimensions of the swivel chair so that the table is comfortable to use. Usually the sizes are taken as standard; all office chairs are almost the same;
- for convenience, the height of the structure is selected within the range of 700-750 mm, including the tabletop. If the table is made for a child, then its height may be slightly smaller;
- The dimensions of the office equipment that will be installed must also be taken into account, so that later you do not have to mount an additional shelf for the printer. Take the time to take a ruler to take additional measurements of office equipment before making drawers and shelves;
- It is important to take into account the parameters of the room where the table will be installed. It is recommended to place it in such a way that the light falls correctly, the chair moves freely, and the sitter does not feel discomfort when using the furniture.
When performing calculations, it is important to indicate all dimensions in the drawing, including the thickness of the side walls and countertops. This will allow you to quickly cut sheets of material and perform assembly easily and efficiently. The drawing should show the location of the fastening elements and their number. Pay attention to the picture on how to do this correctly (Image 2).
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Materials and tools
To work at a computer, you need to prepare tools and materials. To work you will need:
- long metal and short ruler;
- a simple pencil;
- end plane;
- square;
- screwdriver;
- jigsaw;
- drill, set of drills, depth stop, which will allow you to drill blind holes;
- Circular Saw;
- brushes for varnish or paint.
From the materials that are necessary for installing a comfortable desktop, you need to take:
- MDF boards. You need to take sheets with dimensions of 2440 × 1220 × 15 mm; during work they are cut according to the design. Side surfaces, drawers and shelves are made from such plates;
- pine boards measuring 1200x150x25 mm, you need to take 2 pieces, they are used to strengthen the structure;
- for fastening it is worth taking 120 screws, dimensions - 3x15 mm, the head must be countersunk;
- ties for corners of plastic structures – 40 pcs.;
- pull-out guides, the number depends on the number of drawers and pull-out shelves;
- self-adhesive or end edge, which will form the edge for shelves and drawers;
- sanding paper for processing edges;
- wood primer, varnish or paint for finishing.
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Table assembly
You need to start work by assembling the side parts. Guides are screwed to the surfaces of the boards; they are necessary for drawers and shelves. Afterwards, all the side modules are assembled on the dowels. It is recommended to add PVA construction glue to the sockets; it will make the fastenings more reliable. To strengthen the fastenings, you can insert thin wooden planks. An example of assembly is shown in the figure (Image 3).
As the main material for the side walls, you can use ordinary fiberboard boards, but it is best to take MDF sheets, the thickness of which is 10 mm.
Image 3. Drawing of a computer desk with top shelves.
Such walls are perfectly fastened with self-tapping screws. Next, the table is assembled with your own hands using spare parts for the drawers. To assemble the boxes, MDF 10 mm thick is used. When installing, it is important to strictly observe right angles, since this will determine how easy and convenient it will be to use the boxes. All dowels are carefully inserted into the sockets, which are better coated with glue for reliability.
The side cuts of the shelves are covered with edge tape; it is enough to iron it with a regular hot iron. To protect the tape, it is best to use a strip of paper to prevent the edge from becoming blistered. If necessary, the excess edges are cut off with ordinary scissors, but this must be done very carefully. Wooden planks are glued to the front and back sides of the shelves, and their dimensions must fully correspond to the parameters of the part. This is necessary to pull-out shelf could move freely along its guides.
Drawings of a corner computer desk. Dimensions.
According to the preliminary design project, the MFP is installed on a retractable console, which is attached to the top and side of the cabinet. One of the sides of the cabinet simultaneously serves as a support for the tabletop, transferring the load to the legs. The reason why the role of support is assigned to the inner side panel is visible from the design itself; in this form, access and work with the MFP can be carried out from almost all sides.
- Corner computer desk project .
- Diagram and detailing of a computer desk .
- Accessories for making a computer desk .
Cabinet with drawers and a panel under the MFP.
Underframe.
The height of the underframe is equal to the total height of the cabinet (740 mm), the length and width of the underframe is free and is calculated in accordance with the dimensions of the tabletop (see section above).
Adjacent to the cabinet, the inner side of which serves as a support for the tabletop, is the main underframe with another, farthest support and a rear vertical wall. The back wall performs three functions: it is a connection between the table supports, a vertical spatial element of structural rigidity and additional support for horizontal shelves. The back wall is attached with a gap between the tabletop, i.e. it does not rest against it with its upper end. Thus, we have provided a place for free passage of computer electrical cables.
Between the table supports, two horizontal shelves were placed in the underframe, which can be used for various needs. For example, it is convenient to rest your feet on the bottom shelf when you want to lean back and watch a movie on the monitor screen. In addition to everything, these shelves, together with back wall act as an element of spatial rigidity of the entire table.
The side frame of the tabletop supporting the tabletop is installed on mortise adjustable supports. .
Keyboard shelf.
You can make a keyboard shelf yourself to your own size or use a special component for computer desks - a ready-made factory keyboard shelf.
The advantages of a ready-made shelf are that you don’t have to make it yourself; the disadvantages are that it is only used for a keyboard.
Advantages - can be made in any individual sizes.
The frame is made from two sidewalls and two connected strips. The shelf itself is installed on ball telescopic guides with full extension.
Installation of the keyboard shelf is extremely simple; it is screwed with 4x30 self-tapping screws through connecting strips under the bottom of the tabletop, directly into its place.
If you plan to use corner table for a desktop computer, and not for a laptop, there is a need to place a system unit. In order not to build additional structures under the tabletop and make the system unit not tied to a specific place, we will make a stand for the system unit. You can use a ready-made factory accessory, but we like to do everything ourselves and will make sure that its design is in harmony with the entire table.
Add-on for a computer desk.
Almost every home has advanced technology, primarily a computer. To make operation more convenient, you need a desktop, for example, a transformer. If you are not planning to make a purchase in the near future, then do not despair. How to make a computer desk with your own hands? It's not that difficult if you use the information provided. It will help with the task at hand or even make a real transformer.
In the general case (if we do not take the transformer as a special case), the structure includes several elements. Let's look at them:
- tabletop (it is most convenient to use a wood slab to create it);
- a cabinet or several cabinets designed for various devices, for example, wires from a computer and so on;
- a filing cabinet designed for a couple of boxes (the dimensions of the boxes themselves must match the parameters of the folders);
- a cabinet reserved for a printing device.
If you are not very good at carpentry, choose more simple designs and circuits, the creation of which does not require the use of specialized tools rather than a transformer.
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Be sure to take into account the presence of additional devices in the table. Their number and location must be taken into account at the design stage. To save space, choose folding models that, when disassembled, take up minimal space. Let's disassemble the furniture and put it in the corner to free up space.
What materials will be needed?
To complete this task you will need:
- Medium-density fiberboard (three sheets are enough). If desired, you can purchase maple veneer, however, its cost is several times higher than the price of the above option. Experts involved in the production of furniture recommend giving preference to wood. This kind of material the best way suitable for the job as it is economical in price and quite reliable.
- Glue for working with wood.
- Substance for filling holes.
- Roller slides, which are useful for arranging drawers.
- Handles for drawers and hinges for doors in order to design a convenient closet.
- Primer.
- Paint and accessories for applying it (brushes and rollers are best).
Choosing a place for a computer desk
Be careful in your search suitable place, where the constructed transformer will be located or completely regular table. It is advisable that it does not take up too much space in the room, however, do not be too zealous when doing small table. In this case, a small computer desk will not be able to fully perform its functions.
Correct placement of the computer desk
There are several rules that must be followed when placing a computer desk:
- Availability of constant access to the electrical network. If the source is an outlet, then it must be grounded before use.
- Window openings through which light passes freely. Experts say the following: “If possible, make sure that the source of natural light is located to the left of the workplace where the computer is installed.”
- Lack of heating devices in the immediate vicinity. It is undesirable for devices such as radiators, fireplaces, electric heaters and so on. Otherwise there is a risk that technical means will overheat and fail, will increase significantly. Of course, such a condition is difficult to meet in conditions small apartments However, it's worth trying.
- Lack of decorative items such as pictures or non-functional shelves. They will only interfere with working on a computer at home, and therefore, if possible, it is better to remove them. Such elements do not fit into the project at all.
Variety of tables for computer equipment
How to make an interior item with your own hands? Before you get started, it is important to understand which model is best suited. How to choose perfect option? First, you should know that today the most common types are:
If you choose the latter option, then these explanations will be important for you: shelves and bedside tables (if desired, you can make a cabinet from chipboard) are suitable for storing documentation and other things.
How to decorate? To do this, it is recommended to use special paints and stickers on the cabinet. How to choose them? In this situation, everything depends on the master. Decorate ready product according to your taste and discretion. Treat the design responsibly and be careful so that you don’t have to redo it.
How to make a rectangular table
How to choose the right option among those listed above? If you are not a professional, then you are better off choosing a simpler option, for example, a rectangular model. Experts say that first you need to cut the base, and then secure a pre-cut block of the appropriate size between the individual elements. Then you can start adjusting the radius. Once you get the edges done, consider half the work done. If some points remain unclear to you, look at the diagrams on our website. They will help you figure out how to create computer desks with your own hands; study the photos for a better understanding of the topic.
A homemade computer desk is often equipped with a retractable table top.
An important point: the runners are located under the object, and not on both sides. This allows the shelf to withstand significant loads and not sag under the weight of objects that will be placed on it.
A folding computer desk can be equipped with additional shelves for placing the system unit, as well as holes for wires. Drawings and diagrams will help you cope with the task and make computer desks with your own hands. Suitable drawings for computer desks can be found on this site.
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If desired, you can improve your computer desk and make its tabletop customizable. Products with an adjustable surface can be made with your own hands using a chain drive, that is, bicycle sprockets supplemented with a chain. Of course, everything is not so simple here, since it will require welding work, but in the end you can get a stylish desktop in an industrial style.
How to create a computer desk for a gamer?
A desktop made specifically for people who spend a lot of time working computer games, provides a comfortable location. It is important that it can provide access to everyone the right things at minimum costs strength Videos and diagrams for computer desks will help you understand how to design the ideal model.
A work desk with legs made of metal pipes, wooden table top and shelves. However, to do it will require significant effort. Before starting work, make sure to select special tools and materials. It is better not to fix the shelves on the pipes, but to make ledges from wood. It is most convenient to screw them to the base and glue them to the bottom of the shelf.