Looking for a way to create a custom floating desk that is both functional and stylish? This project was designed and built by Ryan from That Tech Teacher, and it’s a perfect addition to any home office or workspace.
Materials and Tools
- 2×4 lumber for the frame
- Three-quarter inch thick wood (oak, walnut, maple, cherry) for the top
- Wood glue
- Kreg jig for pocket holes
- Deck screws
- Drill
- Level
- Stud finder
- Measuring tape
- Track saw or circular saw
- Jigsaw
- Belt sander
- Drum sander
- Danish oil for finishing
- Clamps
Step 1: Planning and Design
Start by designing your desk. Ryan created a 3D model that includes a sturdy 2×4 frame for the bottom, which allows for excellent cable management. The top will be made from a combination of hardwoods glued together in a custom pattern.
Step 2: Building the Frame
Begin by planning down the 2x4s to a thickness of three inches. This reduces the overall thickness of the frame and ensures a clean look. Mark a height line on the wall at 29.25 inches where the frame will be mounted.
Using a level, ensure that your lines are straight. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall and mark them for drilling.
Step 3: Cutting and Installing the Frame
Cut the back piece first, then the side pieces, attaching them with 3.5-inch deck screws. For added strength, use lag bolts for heavier components if necessary. Install the front and middle pieces using Kreg jig pocket hole screws.
Step 4: Creating the Top
Next, prepare the top by planing, jointing, cutting, and ripping the hardwoods to size. Arrange the pieces on a gluing table, applying plenty of glue and clamping them together. Allow the glue to dry for 24 hours.
Step 5: Finalizing the Top
After the glue has cured, remove the clamps and sand the top flat using a drum sander, then finish it with a belt sander. Cut the top to size using a track saw for clean edges.
Step 6: Fitting the Desktop
Use a scribing technique with a cardboard template to ensure the top fits snugly against the wall. Make adjustments with a jigsaw and sand as necessary to achieve a perfect fit.
Step 7: Securing the Top
Once the desktop is fitted, attach it to the frame using Kreg jig pocket hole screws from underneath. This method keeps the top free of visible fasteners for a clean look.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Finally, add a fascia piece to cover any exposed frame components. Fill in nail holes with paint for a polished finish.
