Do you feel like your workspace is cluttered and disorganized? Are you struggling to find a place to store all of your office supplies and important documents? Look no further than creating a DIY under desk drawer!
Not only will this add extra storage space, but it will also keep your desk surface clear and allow for more efficient work. In this article, we will guide you through the process of designing, building, and installing your own under desk drawer.
With just a few basic tools and materials, you can create a customized storage solution that fits your specific needs and style. Follow our tips and tricks for a successful DIY project and enjoy a more organized and productive workspace.
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Benefits of Having an Under Desk Drawer
You’ll love how much more organized and efficient your workspace will feel with an under desk drawer! Not only does it provide extra storage, but it also keeps your desk clutter-free.
You can easily store documents, stationery, and other essentials in one place. This not only saves you time but also makes it easier for you to find what you need when you need it.
Another benefit of having an under desk drawer is that it can help you maintain a clean workspace. When you have a designated spot for your belongings, you’re less likely to leave them lying around on your desk or on the floor.
This means you’ll have more space to work and won’t have to constantly shuffle things around to make room. Plus, you won’t have to worry about accidentally knocking over a stack of papers or spilling your coffee on important documents.
An under desk drawer can help you make the most out of your limited workspace. If you have a small desk or a shared workspace, every inch counts.
By utilizing the space underneath your desk, you can maximize your storage without sacrificing your work area. You’ll be able to keep everything you need within reach without cluttering your desk surface.
This means you can work more efficiently and effectively, without feeling cramped or overwhelmed.
Tools and Materials Needed
To make it happen, all you’ll need are some basic tools and materials. One of the most important tools you’ll need is a handsaw or circular saw. This’ll allow you to cut the wood needed for the drawer to the size you need.
You’ll also need a drill, screws, wood glue, and sandpaper. The drill’ll be used to create holes for the screws, while the wood glue’ll help to hold the pieces of wood together. Sandpaper’ll be used to smooth out any rough edges.
In addition to the tools mentioned above, you’ll also need some materials to build your under desk drawer. The first material you’ll need is wood. You can use any type of wood you like, but most people prefer to use plywood or MDF board because they’re inexpensive and easy to work with.
You’ll also need some drawer slides, which’ll allow the drawer to slide in and out smoothly. Finally, you’ll need some drawer handles or knobs to make it easy to open and close the drawer.
When it comes to building your under desk drawer, it’s important to take your time and follow the instructions carefully. Start by measuring the space under your desk where you want the drawer to go, and then cut the wood to the appropriate size.
Use the drill to create holes for the screws, and then attach the drawer slides to the bottom of the drawer. Finally, attach the handles or knobs to the front of the drawer, and then slide the drawer into place.
With a little bit of patience and some basic tools and materials, you can create the extra storage space you need for your home office.
Design and Planning
Before getting started, think about what you want to store in the space under your desk and how you want the drawer to look and function. This will help you determine the size and shape of the drawer, as well as the materials needed for construction.
Consider whether you want a single large drawer or multiple smaller ones, and whether you want them to be open or closed. You may also want to think about adding dividers or compartments to help keep your items organized.
Once you have a clear idea of what you want, it’s time to start designing your under desk drawer. You can use a pencil and paper to sketch out your ideas, or use a digital design tool if you prefer.
Make sure to take accurate measurements of the space under your desk, including the height, width, and depth, to ensure that your drawer will fit properly. Don’t forget to take into account any obstacles, such as cords or other items, that may affect the placement of your drawer.
When you have a final design in mind, it’s time to start planning the construction of your under desk drawer. Consider the tools and materials you will need, and make a list so that you can purchase everything in advance.
You may want to start with a prototype or a small-scale model to test your design before committing to building the full-size drawer. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a DIY under desk drawer that adds extra storage and functionality to your workspace.
Building the Drawer Box
Now that you’ve designed your under desk drawer, it’s time to start building it.
The first step is cutting the wood to size. You can easily do this using a saw.
Once you have the pieces cut, you’ll need to assemble the box using screws.
After that, attach the drawer slides for a smooth opening and closing.
Cutting the Wood to Size
Ready to start cutting the wood for your under desk drawer? Let’s make sure you’ve got the right tools and measurements first!
Make sure you’ve got a good quality saw and a measuring tape. You don’t want to end up with uneven cuts or inaccurate measurements. It’s also a good idea to have a workbench or sturdy table to work on.
Once you’ve got all the tools you need, measure the length and width of the drawer box you built in the previous step. Then, cut the plywood according to those measurements. Don’t forget to account for the thickness of the blade when cutting the plywood. It’s better to make the cuts a little bit smaller than the actual measurements, so you can sand down the edges later if needed.
Take your time and double-check your measurements before making any cuts. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a perfect under desk drawer that’ll give you extra storage space and keep your workspace organized.
Assembling the Box with Screws
To assemble the box with screws, simply align the edges of the plywood pieces and use a drill to secure the screws in place. Make sure to pre-drill the holes to avoid splitting the wood. You can use clamps to hold the pieces together while drilling and screwing.
Once the sides are secured, attach the bottom piece by screwing it into the bottom edges of the sides. Use wood glue for extra strength. Finally, attach the drawer slides according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Your under desk drawer box is now complete and ready to be installed!
Attaching the Drawer Slides
You’ll want to take the drawer slides and attach them onto the bottom of the box, making sure they’re aligned with the edges and parallel to each other. This will allow the drawer to smoothly slide in and out.
Make sure to measure and mark the placement of the slides on the box before screwing them in place.
Once the slides are attached to the box, you can then attach them to the underside of your desk. Make sure to measure and mark the placement of the slides on the desk before screwing them in place.
Once attached, test the drawer to make sure it slides smoothly in and out. With the slides securely in place, you’ll have a functional and convenient under desk storage solution.
Building the Drawer Front
Now it’s time to tackle the drawer front! You’ll start by cutting the front panel to size, making sure it aligns perfectly with the drawer box.
Then, you’ll attach it securely to the box using screws or adhesive.
Finally, you’ll sand and finish the front panel to give it a polished look that matches your desk.
With these steps, you’ll have a functional and stylish under-desk drawer in no time!
Cutting the Front Panel to Size
Alright, let’s tackle cutting the front panel to the right size for your DIY under desk drawer. This step is crucial to ensure that your drawer fits snugly and looks professional.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
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Measure twice, cut once: It’s an old carpenter’s adage, but it still holds true. Double-check your measurements before making any cuts to avoid costly mistakes.
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Use a straight edge: A straight edge will help you make accurate cuts and prevent jagged edges. A metal ruler or T-square are great options.
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Use a jigsaw or circular saw: These tools are perfect for cutting through wood panels, and they allow you to make precise cuts quickly.
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Sand the edges: After cutting, sand the edges of your panel to smooth out any rough spots or splinters. This will give your drawer a polished finish and prevent any snagging on clothing or other items stored inside.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to cut your front panel to the perfect size and achieve a professional-looking DIY under desk drawer.
Attaching the Front Panel to the Box
To attach the front panel to the box, start by placing the panel flush against the front of the box and securing it in place with wood screws or brads using a power drill or hammer. Make sure to evenly space out the screws or brads along the edges of the panel to ensure a secure attachment.
It’s also important to double-check that the panel is straight before securing it in place to avoid any crookedness. Once the panel is attached, take a moment to inspect the drawer for any rough edges or splinters. If necessary, gently sand down any rough spots with sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish.
With the front panel securely attached, your DIY under desk drawer is beginning to take shape and is one step closer to providing you with the extra storage space you need.
Sanding and Finishing the Drawer Front
You’ll love the smooth and polished look of your drawer front after sanding it down gently with sandpaper and applying a finishing coat.
Start by using a fine-grit sandpaper to sand the front panel of your drawer until it’s smooth to the touch. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratching the surface. Once you’ve sanded it down, wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
Next, it’s time to apply a finishing coat to protect and enhance the wood’s natural beauty. You can use a clear coat, stain, or paint depending on your preference.
Here are three tips to keep in mind when finishing your drawer front:
- Apply the finishing coat in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
- Apply a thin layer of the finishing coat using a brush or a cloth, and let it dry completely before applying another layer.
- Sand lightly between each layer to ensure a smooth and even finish.
With these tips in mind, your drawer front will look professional and polished, adding the perfect finishing touch to your DIY under desk drawer.
Installing the Drawer
Now that you’ve got your drawer built, it’s time to install it under your desk for some extra storage space! First, measure the height of your drawer and mark it on the inside of your desk. Use a drill to make holes where you marked the height, making sure they’re level with each other.
Then, attach the drawer slides to the sides of the drawer, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Next, attach the other end of the drawer slides to the holes you drilled earlier. Make sure they’re level and secure. Test out the drawer by sliding it in and out a few times to make sure it’s functioning properly. If it’s a little tight, you can adjust the position of the slides until it moves smoothly.
Add any finishing touches to the drawer, such as a handle or knob. This’ll make it easier to open and close the drawer. Once everything is in place, you can start using your new under desk drawer for extra storage! It’s a great way to keep your desk space organized and clutter-free.
Final Touches
With all the finishing touches in place, your new under desk drawer is ready to use and will keep your workspace organized.
Now that you’ve installed your drawer, it’s time to add some final touches to make it even better. One thing you can do is add some drawer liners to protect the bottom of the drawer and keep your items from sliding around. You can also consider adding dividers to help keep everything in its place.
Another great final touch is to label your drawer. This not only helps you remember what’s in the drawer, but it also helps anyone who may need to use your workspace while you’re away. A simple label maker or some masking tape and a marker can do the trick. Take a few minutes to label each section of your drawer, and you’ll be surprised at how much easier it is to find what you need.
Take a step back and admire your handiwork. You’ve created a functional and useful storage solution that not only saves space but also keeps your workspace tidy.
With the final touches in place, you can be proud of your DIY under desk drawer and enjoy the benefits of a clutter-free workspace.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created your very own under desk drawer! Now you have extra space to store all of your important documents and office supplies.
Having an under desk drawer has many benefits. It keeps your workspace organized and clutter-free. Plus, it adds a personalized touch to your workspace and can even increase your productivity.
Remember to use the proper tools and materials, and take the time to carefully plan and design your drawer before building. With a little patience and effort, you can create a functional and stylish under desk drawer that will enhance your workspace for years to come.
So, enjoy the extra storage space and the satisfaction of completing a DIY project!
