DIY leaning wall ladder desk - how to build your own leaning ladder desk out of all 1x boards. Easy tutorial by ANA-WHITE.com
Hello, Happy Friday!!!
I'm writing to you today from a brand new desk that I built last weekend!
I live in a small space, without the luxury of having a dedicated office. So I needed a desk that would maximize storage and functionality, in the smallest possible footprint.
This desk does it.
I've been using it for about a week now, and can't even express how much I love it!!! The desk area is just big enough for my monitor, keyboard and mouse - no clutter can accummulate there! And will all the diffrent sized shelves at different heights, I can keep all my stuff organized and within easy reach. On the lower larger shelves, I keep my recycling basket and printer, the next level of shelves is baskets to hide all my electronics and cords and a few books. Moving up, I keep more books, a receipt collection bucket. On the shelves just above the moniter the mail, pencils and office accessories end up - it's too high for the baby to get into and too narrow to clutter with other stuff. The top shelf is pretty much decor and seldom used items.
I built this desk on Saturday, working here and there, as much as I could with kids and no babysitter. It took me a few hours to build and stain and clear coat. Then on Sunday I assembled the desk and brought into the house. That took another couple of hours. So about five hours total - not bad!
The reason this was such a quick and easy build is all of the shelves are just 1x boards. The top shelf is 1x6, the next shelf is 1x8, then 1x10, 1x12 and the bottom shelf is two 1x8s. I didn't have to rip plywood or edge band or anything like that - just cross cut and go!
I put together a video that shows all the steps here -
And here's the steps for those of you who can't watch video -
I cut all of my boards with a compound miter saw. For all of the shelves and the back, the length was the same. So what I did was set a stop block on my saw for all the cuts of the same length. Then I can just set my board on the saw, with one end butted up to the stop block and cut away. There were alot of cuts, so this made things go much faster.
Also, after I cut all of the shelf sides, I then just set my saw to a 22-1/2 degree angle (I picked this angle because it is a set point on my saw, but you could use any angle) and nipped off one corner of all of the shelf side trim pieces. I didn't even measure, just made a pencil mark on my saw of where the end of the board needed to sit, and then just cut. This softened up the corners of the project and added a nice design element.
The legs are cut at a 5 degree angle at the top and bottom. But this won't sit flush with the wall. So I took a speed square and marked square to the top 5 degree angle and cut off the backs with a circular saw so there is a 2-1/2" area on the backs of the legs that is square to the wall. Watch the video - this all is explained and shown in it.
Then I just went to work building shelves. I nailed my sides and ends on - you must use glue when nailing. The nails will not hold out without.
Here's all my shelves built. The wider width shelves are two 1x8s, I did pocket hole them together on the bottom just for security.
I stained all of the pieces with Varathane Early American, wiping on with a paper towel.
Then I sprayed on Watco Lacquer to protect the stained finish.
Now time to assemble! First thing I did was attach the backs to the legs.
And then leaned the legs with the backs up against a wall and clamped the shelves in the right positions and screwed them on.
2 - 1x3 @ 76-1/4" - both ends cut at 5 degrees, parallel, long point to short point measurement
2 - 1x3 @ 32-1/2"
Tools
General Instructions
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
Build all of the shelves first, attach backs, then sides. Use 1-1/4" nails or staples and wood glue.
Step 2
Cut the top corner of the legs off, leaving a 2-1/2" space that is square to the top of the legs.
Step 3
Attach back support to top of legs, matching square cut from step 2.
Step 4
Lean the project up against the wall in its final postion. Place remaining 1x3, level with the floor (will NOT be square to legs) and screw in place.
Step 5
Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.
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.
This is definitely my next build for our home office. The hubs just started working from home so I'm definitely going to spend more time in the garage ;) and he needs a new office! Win-Win! Thanks Ana!
I love this desk and it would fit perfectly in a niche in our house. However, we have a dual monitor set up, and a slightly larger space to fill. Would it be possible to make 2 of these, and attatch the two large pieces in the center with four smaller shelves flanking it, two on each side?
Currently in the process of building from this plan and trying to figure out the angle of the legs has been super frustrating, we cut them at 5 degrees and it’s entirely too far from the wall and the instruction really offer no insight for cutting them so we are just winging it at this point, I would definitely recommended adding some sort of tutorial or section of the video showing you cutting the legs or what exactly you did..
What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!
Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.
What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.
What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.
Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.
Cutting Questions
Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.
How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.
Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.
Joinery Questions
What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.
Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.
How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.
Finishing Questions
Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.
What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.
How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.
Plan Questions
Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.
Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.
Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.
General Questions
What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.
Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.
What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!
What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.
I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.
Care & Maintenance
How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.
How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.
How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.
Want to Build with Confidence?
Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.
Comments
Pauline Henderson
Fri, 08/07/2015 - 21:31
Perfect :)
This is absolutely perfect! I need it in my life!
OnBlissStreet
Sun, 08/09/2015 - 12:11
I've got my eye on this!
This is definitely my next build for our home office. The hubs just started working from home so I'm definitely going to spend more time in the garage ;) and he needs a new office! Win-Win! Thanks Ana!
handmadewithash
Sun, 08/09/2015 - 13:40
Wow! I love this! I can use
Wow! I love this! I can use this space saver in my office :)
TeddyMama
Tue, 06/28/2016 - 18:04
Double wide?
I love this desk and it would fit perfectly in a niche in our house. However, we have a dual monitor set up, and a slightly larger space to fill. Would it be possible to make 2 of these, and attatch the two large pieces in the center with four smaller shelves flanking it, two on each side?
sydney
Sat, 04/04/2020 - 13:31
Currently in the process of…
Currently in the process of building from this plan and trying to figure out the angle of the legs has been super frustrating, we cut them at 5 degrees and it’s entirely too far from the wall and the instruction really offer no insight for cutting them so we are just winging it at this point, I would definitely recommended adding some sort of tutorial or section of the video showing you cutting the legs or what exactly you did..