Modular Office L-Shaped Desk

I used baltic birch ply (two sheets) plus some 1x3s and 1x2s. I had to modify the dimensions to suit my space (a wall space between a window and sliding glass door.

The dimensions of the 1x2"s we a little hard to adjust. Mostly my math.

 I still need to add drawers, but I like the color contrast between the top, base and trim.

I used General Finishes Java gel stain for the top. General Finishes driftwood for the bottom trim. Basic white paint for the bases. I also used General Finishes High Performance Poly (2 coats). 

If I had to do it again, I would paint the bases in the Driftwood color and wax the whole thing. Also, I wouldn't apply the stain in hot sun. It came out really dark and was impossible to wipe off the excess. Also, never leave a ironed on edge banding in the sun. This lost adhesion and I had to re-iron it on.

Fun project. First use of pocket holes. 

I love the fact that it's modular and the angle gives you twice as much surface area. I get the feeling this will be with me for years to come in some room or another.

-Dallas

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
140
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
General Finishes Java Gel Stain
General Finishes Milk Paint - Driftwood
White Paint
General Finishes High Performance Polyurethane
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

jackie scinto

Wed, 08/27/2014 - 21:01

So glad to have seen this post. I am thinking of making this desk for my daughter. Have been looking for a corner desk unit with open file bases. I found Ana's site and have made the sandbox w/bench plan, and it was not that hard. Of course I some help from a family member, and I think he would be help out with this plan as well. I am not sure of what a pocket hole is, can you tell me in laywoman's terms what that would be. Just to be sure, these plans consist of Office Corner Desktop Plan and the Modular Office Narrow Open File Base Plan. Also, did you use a Kreg Jig? I have found one at a local woodworking hobby shop, but i am wondering if the expense is worth it, any thoughts?

saelmc

Thu, 08/28/2014 - 10:38

Hi Jackie,

Ana has provided an informative video about drilling pocket holes with the Kreg jig, for those who are wondering how it's done. You'll find it here: http://ana-white.com/2011/11/drilling-your-first-pocket-hole and then you can decide if you think it will be worth it to spend the money on a jig.

Also, if you're concerned about the price, look around on the internet (like Amazon.com for example) and you'll see that there are different models available at various prices. The junior model is quite inexpensive and you might be able to buy it at a better price than the hardware store sells it for.

Good luck with your project!