This do it yourself kids desk folds up to become a wall chalkboard! Stores art supplies and even a paper roll holder! Super easy step by step instructions to DIY your own!

Preparation
- 1 - piece 3/4" plywood 16" x 24"
- 1 - 1x4 @ 10 feet long
- 1 set hinge supports or wire or chain (see comments)
- 1 set basic hinges
- 3 D ring hangers
- Chalkboard paint (optional)
- Moulding or trim (optional)
1 - 1x4 @ 11 1/4"
1 - 1x4 @ 12 3/4"
2 - 1x4 @ 14 1/2"
2 - 1x4 @ 24"
1 - 3/4" Plywood @ 24" x 16"
1/2" dowel, 30" long (optional for the paper roll)
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1
I built this project with 2" finish nails, but you can also use screws or the Kreg Jig.
Please read all comments when installing the hinge supports - per reader comments, depending on your hinge supports, you may need to add extra clearance for the supports.
Step 3
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
Comments
Guest (not verified)
Mon, 09/19/2011 - 14:50
so clever
Ana, could you be any more clever! This could be adapted to many uses. I think i'll make one for the kitchen area to store random papers or a bill paying station. Thank you for the inspiration!
spiceylg
Mon, 09/19/2011 - 16:06
Genuis!
Love this!
loniwolfe
Mon, 09/19/2011 - 16:38
This is great!
I've been trying to figure out where I could put a desk for Maddie (6y/o) to do homework and coloring in our tiny 930 square foot home. Thank you so much! Now I can put it in her room!
DirtSquirt
Mon, 09/19/2011 - 17:25
I love it!
The hinges in the pictures of the one that you built look different than the one specified in the instructions. Are they? Are the ones from your actual pictures strong enough? I would prefer them to the ones that would hang on the sides and get in the way of arms.
In reply to I love it! by DirtSquirt
Ana White
Mon, 09/19/2011 - 20:59
Hi Dirt Squirt, thank you!
Hi Dirt Squirt, thank you! The hinges are different - I used the Euro style ones - but the better installation is the simple hinge and hinge support. We live 100 miles from a Home Depot or Lowes, so I am waiting for my next shopping trip to pick up the hinge supports, and only had on hand the Euro style ones. The euro style hinges do work, but not for a high weight load without the supports. Since the Euro Style hinges are more expensive and harder to install, I recommended the simple hinges on the underside. Hope this makes sense! Best luck! Ana
alaskamom (not verified)
Mon, 09/19/2011 - 19:06
wall desk
I want to point out that this desk is also good for the development of young children. When children cross the mid-line of the body it allows for better brain development and specifically the ability to learn to read. Also children with developmental delays seem to be helped by standing vs. sitting (IE: using the chalk board or an easel.
Sandi (not verified)
Mon, 09/19/2011 - 19:42
I was just discussing an idea
I was just discussing an idea like this for a "fold out" sewing station. I love this idea, but do you think it could handle a sewing machine? I'm thinking I might be out of luck. Love this idea, though, and will likely implement in our girls' rooms.
In reply to I was just discussing an idea by Sandi (not verified)
Ana White
Mon, 09/19/2011 - 21:01
Hi Sandi, what a great idea,
Hi Sandi, what a great idea, a fold out sewing center! Not sure if the support would be there with my plan, but there are certainly ways of "beefing" up everything!
We really love it in Grace's room - so far, she's put everything away when done, and folded it shut! Here's hoping that continues!
Guest (not verified)
Tue, 12/20/2011 - 07:14
Beefing it up
It may sound odd, but one way to get the added support is to add fold up legs to the bottom(or sides?) of the table. Unfold them, lock them into place, and then bring down the table. Or Unfold the table, then the legs if the table/wall is strong enough to support the legs. Obvious the desk would need to be larger and better attached to the wall for this idea. Just my thoughts on beefing things up. :)
Dana Jacobs (not verified)
Tue, 02/21/2012 - 20:49
Beefing it up...
As mentioned by another commenter in response to this idea, adding folding legs is another way to add extra support. Here is a link to a similar desk with legs, for inspiration's sake: http://www.homedecorators.com/detail.php?parentid=0100300&aid=google.pu…