This project was built by Steve from JKM Woodworking. If you’re interested in woodworking and epoxy projects, be sure to check out his YouTube channel for more detailed builds and inspiration.
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Why Build a Custom Adjustable Height Desk?
An adjustable height desk is a great way to improve ergonomics and flexibility in a workspace. Customizing it with a walnut slab and epoxy resin makes it both practical and visually stunning.
Steve designed this desk to be both durable and stylish, showcasing the natural beauty of walnut combined with a sleek epoxy river. The result is a functional piece of furniture that elevates any office or home workspace.
Selecting the Right Walnut Slab
Choosing the right wood is key to a successful project. Steve ordered a walnut slab online, carefully inspecting it upon arrival to ensure it was in good condition.
The slab had a moisture content of around 11%, which is ideal for a stable and long-lasting desktop. Any excessive moisture can cause warping or cracking over time, so checking this beforehand is an important step.
Preparing the Wood for Epoxy
Before assembly, the walnut slab needed some preparation to create a clean working surface. Steve started by cutting the slab down the middle with a circular saw to achieve the desired desktop layout.
Loose bark and rotted sections were carefully removed using chisels and a wire wheel. This process ensured that only solid wood remained, creating a strong and clean foundation for the epoxy pour.
Estimating the Epoxy Volume
Since the slab had natural openings that would be filled with epoxy, estimating the correct volume was essential. Steve measured the gaps and calculated the required amount based on slab thickness and estimated pouring depth.
A spreadsheet helped organize the measurements, leading to an estimate of about 5.6 gallons of epoxy needed for the project. Proper planning ensured that enough material was available to complete the pour without interruptions.
Building the Epoxy Form
To contain the epoxy during the pour, Steve built a form using melamine, a material known for its smooth, non-stick surface. The seams were sealed with Tyvek tape, and a mold release spray was applied to make removal easier after curing.
Before pouring the epoxy, he pre-sealed the slab with a thin coat of resin. This step helped prevent bubbles from forming and ensured an even application when the final pour was completed.
Mixing and Pouring the Epoxy
With the form ready, it was time to mix and pour the epoxy. Steve added black dye to create a deep, rich color that would contrast beautifully with the walnut grain.
After pouring the resin into the form, he used a chef’s torch to remove air bubbles from the surface. Over the next several hours, he monitored the pour to ensure any additional bubbles that rose to the surface were eliminated.
Flattening the Desktop Surface
Once the epoxy had fully cured, the next step was flattening the desktop. Steve used a router sled to level the surface, ensuring the desk had an even thickness across its entire length.
A perfectly flat surface is crucial for a high-end finished product. Before making the final passes, he adjusted his workbench to eliminate any uneven areas that could affect the router sled’s accuracy.
Sanding and Refining the Finish
Sanding started with 80-grit sandpaper and progressed through finer grits for a smooth surface. Any small voids or imperfections were filled with black CA glue, while larger areas were addressed with additional epoxy.
For a refined touch, Steve added a 22.5-degree chamfer to the underside of the desktop. This softened the edges and enhanced the overall aesthetic of the piece.
Reinforcing the Desktop with a C-Channel
To prevent warping over time, Steve installed a metal C-channel on the underside of the desk. He cut recesses for the channel and added threaded inserts to secure it in place.
This reinforcement ensures the walnut slab remains structurally sound, even with changes in humidity and temperature. It’s a simple but effective way to extend the longevity of a solid wood tabletop.
Applying the Final Finish
To enhance the walnut’s natural beauty, Steve applied Odie’s Oil following the manufacturer’s instructions. The desk was sanded up to 600 grit before applying the finish, ensuring a smooth and professional appearance.
The oil deepened the wood grain and provided lasting protection. This final step brought out the natural richness of the walnut while sealing the surface against moisture and wear.
Installing the Adjustable Base
The adjustable desk base was purchased online and was relatively simple to assemble. Choosing a high-quality base with good reviews ensured smooth operation and long-term durability.
After securing the desktop to the frame, the desk was ready for use. The ability to switch between sitting and standing positions made it a functional upgrade for the workspace.
The Finished Desk
The completed desk was both elegant and highly practical. The combination of walnut and black epoxy created a striking contrast, while the adjustable height feature added ergonomic benefits.
By building it from raw materials, Steve was able to create a custom piece of furniture tailored to his needs. The end result was a stunning and durable workspace solution.
Want to See the Full Build?
Steve’s video walks through each step of the process in detail, making it easy to follow along. His tips and techniques will help you successfully build your own custom desk.