How to Build a School Desk

Whether for doing homework or using a computer, a school desk can be a truly useful addition to a child's room. Desks can be built in a multitude of ways to fit the individual needs of your child in terms of educational material and the size and layout of their bedroom, but a standard desk is usually the simplest desk to make and use. A homemade desk can be built using supplies purchased from any hardware store, and the whole project can be completed in a couple of days.

Paint or stain all of your wood and allow it to dry for 24 to 48 hours before beginning to build.

Place a layer of glue on the end of one 24 inch long 1 by 4 inch board. Connect the side of an 18 inch long 1 by 4 inch board with the glue to form a right-angled "L" shape.

Use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess glue. Allow the glue to dry.

Use a hammer to nail the L-shaped boards together for extra strength and support. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 with the other 18 inch 1 by 4 and one of the 24 inch long 1 by 4 inch boards.

Put the two L shapes together to form a rectangular box. Glue the remaining unglued ends together and wipe away any excess glue. Allow the glue to dry.

Nail the newly glued ends together.

Cut a sheet of 1/4-inch thick plywood to fit the top of your box. Use wood glue to attach it. Allow the glue to dry. Hammer in one nail at each corner.

Turn the box over so that the open side faces up. Align a second sheet of 1/4-inch thick plywood with the edges of the box.

Place two hinges evenly along the back of the box and the plywood and mark the spots for the screws. Drill small pilot holes before attaching the hinges with a screwdriver.

Turn the box over again so the hinged lid is facing down and you can attach the legs. Place wood glue on each corner and attach the four remaining 24 inch long 1 by 4 inch boards. Allow the glue to dry.