How to Build a DIY Computer Desk

Building a DIY computer desk can be fun and rewarding. There are many things to consider before building your own desk, such as the materials you need and the type of desk you want. Before you get started with building your own computer desk, you need to make sure you have all the right tools, and you also need to look at some DIY computer desk plans. 

Getting some DIY computer desk ideas is also important because it’s helpful to have some inspiration before beginning. Sometimes, looking at pictures of modern office setups can give you ideas that you wouldn’t have originally thought of. 

This article provides all the information you need on how to build a DIY computer desk, as well as the tools you need to do it. So, if you want to find out more about building your own desk, just keep reading! 

Why Should You Build Your Own Desk?

Building your own desk gives you the chance to create exactly what you want. A DIY desk is fully customizable, so you can match it to your home office perfectly. You may be finding it hard to find a desk that has all the features you want, so why not build your own? Building your own desk can also work out cheaper than buying one ready-made. 

Another reason to build your own desk is that you may find it enjoyable, and it is something exciting to do if you have spare time. It is also rewarding when you put a lot of effort into something such as building a desk, and it finally pays off.  

However, it is important to note that it can be difficult to make a homemade computer desk from scratch. If you are not experienced with woodworking and using tools, you may find it too difficult. You should make sure that you are up for the challenge before committing to buying your tools and materials. Alternatively, you can use the Autonomous kit, which contains a standing desk frame and standing desk legs. This is perfect if you’re a beginner, as you mostly just need to slot everything together. 

What Can You Use a DIY Desk for?

Once you have built your desk, you can use it for many different things. DIY computer desk design plans aren’t just for workspaces, they can also be used for gaming, for example. When making your computer desk design plans, make sure that your gaming monitors and other necessities fit on your DIY desk. If you plan on using multiple monitors on your desk, you need to make sure it can hold all the weight!  

You can also use a DIY desk as a table. Many desk designs nowadays are very similar to dining table designs, so why not have the best of both worlds? This is particularly prevalent for people who live in small studios or apartments, as they may not have space for a table and a desk. No matter what you want to use a desk for, it is always handy to have one and even better when you can create it yourself!

Decide Which Desk You Want

Before making a DIY desk, it’s important to decipher what type of desk you want to build. There are two main types of desks: standing and sitting. Choosing which one you want depends on your needs. A DIY standing desk is a good idea if you tend to sit for long periods because it allows you to stretch your legs without having to stop working. 

Another reason standing desks are great is that you can make them adjustable, so they can also be sitting desks. Standing desks are becoming more popular as the world adapts to the new remote working era, so it may be a good idea to build one for your home office. Sitting for long periods is not healthy, so having the option to stand while working is great for your overall health. You can decide when you want to stand and when you want to sit, so it’s a handy function. 

Before going any further, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of building a DIY simple computer desk.

Pros and Cons of Building a DIY Computer Desk

Pros of Building a DIY Computer Desk

• A DIY desk is customizable 
• The Autonomous standing desk kit is easy to assemble
• It can work out cheaper if you buy parts separately
• You can make it the exact way you envision
• You don’t have to depend on shipping; you can buy everything you need in a store 

Cons of Building a DIY Computer Desk

• It can be tricky if you build one from scratch
• It can take a bit of time to assemble
• You can make mistakes that may hinder the desk’s performance
• You need to buy special tools, and they can be expensive 

Now that you know some of the pros and cons, let’s take a look at getting started.

Building a DIY Computer Desk

The Tools You Need

You need a few things if you want to build a DIY desk, such as: 

• A hammer
• A drill
• A saw
• A wood finisher or sealer
• A screwdriver 

If you are an experienced woodworker, you may have preferable tools that are not mentioned in this article, and that’s okay. The important thing is to have all the main tools!

Measurements

Now that you know what tools you need, you can start preparing to build your DIY computer desk. This article uses the Autonomous standing desk kit as an example because it’s an easy and efficient way to build your own desk and doesn’t require much measuring or tricky work. 

Taking measurements is extremely important when building your own desk from scratch. If you’re building a computer standing desk, for example, you want to make sure you measure the height that you want. You certainly don’t want the desk to be too tall or too short! Additionally, you want to measure the width of the desk to make sure you have enough space for it in your office and to ensure all your stuff fits nicely on it. 

In this guide, the desk being built is a regular rectangular desk. However, you can make other shapes if you want, such as an L shape desk. Always be sure to take accurate measurements because if you don’t, you may have issues with the sizing, and it may not be the best height for you.

Materials

The next step is to gather your materials. The Autonomous standing desk kit comes with a frame, so you need to choose a desk surface to go with it. If you are using a different kit, be sure to have all the required materials ready. Another great option for a desk surface is a bamboo tabletop, but it’s up to you to decide what you want. If you are not using the Autonomous desk kit, make sure you are buying enough materials for your measurements. 

The frame that comes in the Autonomous desk kit is easy to work with, so it is highly recommended. However, if you are not using it, be sure to pick the desk frame that you want and that has the right measurements.

Assembling the Desk

The first thing you should do when building your homemade computer desk is cut out the top of the desk. The most common desk surface to use is wood, and it is the easiest material to work with. If you are using wood, you can mark the cut-offs with a marker or pen after measuring carefully. Don’t make any cuts until you are certain that your measurements are correct! You can use a table saw, or any other saw that you’re comfortable with, to cut the desk to your desired shape and size. If you are using a desk kit, for example, the Autonomous one, be sure to follow the measurement instructions that come with the kit.  

As you may have guessed, you need to make the legs after you’ve made the desk surface. In all honesty, buying pre-made legs is by far the easiest method. However, if you are confident that you can build your own legs, you can do that. If you are making your own legs from scratch, you need carpenter’s glue (for wood). In all cases, it’s best to allow the glue to dry overnight. Once the glue dries, you can make the holes in your legs to attach them to the office desk surface. 

If you are making a simple computer desk for standing, you need to consider whether you want to make the height-adjustable or not. If you are using the Autonomous desk kit, you don’t have to worry because it comes with a built-in height adjustment. However, if you are not using the Autonomous kit, you may need to incorporate your own crank or motor.

Putting the Desk Together

The base of your desktop surface should have the appropriate holes so that you can attach the legs. Where you connect the legs to the tabletop depends on what shape your desk is. If you are making an L-shaped desk, for example, you need to make sure the legs are in the correct position and that they can hold up the desk. An L-shaped office desk also requires more legs, so keep that in mind as well. With the Autonomous desk kit, all you need to do is slot the desktop onto the legs. Building your own from scratch may be more difficult because it requires more measuring.

The Importance of Building a Good Desk

If you decide to build your own desk, be sure to look at some computer desk design plans first. This can give you ideas on what desk to build and how to decorate your home office. The most important thing, however, is building a good desk. You want your desk to be ergonomic, especially if you use it every day. If you build a desk that is wobbly or not measured correctly, it may cause discomfort for you, or it may not fit well in your office. 

Another important thing is longevity; a good desk should last for many years. You don’t want to invest all that time and effort into something that ends up breaking within a year or two.  

How Much Time Does It Take to Build a DIY Computer Desk?

When you use the Autonomous desk kit, the assembly usually only takes around 15 to 40 minutes. If you are making your own desk from scratch, however, it can take up to an hour extra, maybe even longer. 

The time it takes also depends on how experienced and skilled you are. If you are a highly skilled craftsman, it doesn’t take as long as if you are a beginner. Be sure to set sufficient time aside in order to get the job done properly. The most complicated part is making the frame, so you need to focus time on that.

The amount of time it takes may also depend on if you have assistance or not. Sometimes, having an extra person to help assemble a desk makes it quicker and easier.

Your DIY Computer Desk Is Complete

Once your homemade computer desk is complete, you can enjoy all the benefits of an ergonomic and personalized desk! When the hard work pays off, it is nice to enjoy what you created. Before using your new DIY desk, make sure that it’s stable and that it can hold the weight of your things. You can do this by trying to move it around. If it feels sturdy and doesn’t wiggle much, then it should be safe to use. 

You can now be more productive and comfortable, and if you made a standing desk, you even have the option to stretch your legs while you work! You have also most likely saved money by making your own desk, so congratulations, and enjoy your newest piece of modern office furniture!