When did the idea of a DIY L-shaped desk come into my mind? I started blogging in 2018. I used to work on a small table, which was enough to hold a laptop. However, as my setup grew, I needed a large desk to accommodate my multiple monitors. I asked a few local carpenters to make a custom L-shaped desk for me, but they refused, especially when I asked to build it on a metal frame. Also, they demanded an unreasonable amount to make that desk.
As a DIY enthusiast, why not take the opportunity to learn something new? So, I started making custom designs in SketchUp from scratch according to my requirements. My design offers a drawer (movable), sturdy metal frame, spacious work area, and privacy panel. I will share everything I learned and teach you how to build your own DIY L-shaped desk at home. I have included my custom 3D plans as well, which you may find helpful.
How to make a DIY L-shaped Desk at Home
Material Used:
- Angle iron – 1.5-inch size and 40 feet total length
- Blockboard – 1-inch thickness and approx four boards (one piece size is 4×8 feet)
- MDF board – 0.5-inch thickness and around half board (one piece size is 4×8 feet)
- Drawer channel – 18-inch length (longest I found at my local hardware shop), and we need three sets.
- Drawer handle – three set
- Machine Nut & Bolt Set – size 1/2 ” 2″, and we need 24 sets. I Used hex nut, but you can use another head type for better aesthetics.
- Philips head wooden screw – various sizes ranged from 1/2 to 3 inches for cabinet assembly.
Tools Required:
- Welding machine – I used an inverter arc welding machine to join the angle iron and make a frame.
- Angle Grinder – To smoothen welded joints
- Screwdriver – We need to drive lots of screws, and we will need an electric screwdriver.
- Drill machine – To make holes and attach the board to the frame
- Jigsaw – It will be used to cut rounded edges on the board.
- Paintbrush/sprayer – To paint the frame.
- General woodworking tools: chisel, hand planer, measuring tape, clamps, level, etc.
- Software for 3D modeling – I used SketchUp, which I learned along the way.
DIY L-shaped desk planning and Designing (Free Plan Download)
Why I Choose Metal Frame?
I was looking for some inspiration but couldn’t find any suitable options, especially if I talk about the metal frame. You might be thinking, why am I so obsessed with metal? With a metal frame, I can move my chair around on both sides because there aren’t any obstacles. Also, I need to use less wood, which will be more durable and sturdy.
Lengthy wooden desks (in my case, around 8 feet) might flex and bend over time, which is why making a metal frame makes more sense. Angle iron bar is a viable choice because it’s easier to work with and cheaper.
How did I Decide on desk height, legroom, and workspace area?
The method was simple. I work with a 27-inch multiple monitor setup; therefore, I need to step back to see them correctly. That’s why I decided to go with a 30-inch width of work area, which allowed me to maintain an ideal distance. Moreover, to accommodate two monitors, one laptop, and a printer, I decided to go with a 90-inch length of word area. For the smaller part of the L desk, I kept the width and length to 24-inch and 32-inch, respectively, which can easily hold my secondary laptop.
To decide on the height of the L-shaped desk, I first extended the height of my chair fully and added a few inches for movability. This way, 30 inches is perfect for me. Also, since the desk width is pretty good, I didn’t need to work on the leg room. Here is the 3D model of my DIY L-shaped desk, in which you can see all the measurements.
The Idea About Movable Drawers
First, I considered embedding the drawer into the frame, but it would have been less flexible. Since my drawer is an independent unit, I can move it freely according to the requirements. It also makes cleaning under the desk easier. I also considered attaching the caster wheel, but I don’t move it as often, so I avoided the idea. However, you can modify the design according to your requirements.
Making the 3D model
I had never used a 3D modeling program before, so I had to learn it. I tried the free version of SketchUp, which is enough for hobbyists. First, I designed the L-shaped metal frame with five legs. The sturdy metal design lets me move my chair around without compromising the desk’s stability. I skipped the sixth leg.
The desk’s top surface is made from two block boards because it’s pretty spacious. Four more pieces work as a privacy panel and support the structure. I rounded their edges and cut a small profile below them to improve their appearance. You can experiment with your design, so don’t forget to share it with me. I just wanted a simple and functional design, and that’s what I came up with.
Now, let’s start the build!
Build Your DIY L-Shaped Desk – Step-By-Step Guide
Building the Metal Frame
As you can see in my 3D model, the metal frame consists of 11 pieces. Six are the main L-shaped frame structure, and the other five are legs.
Here are the measurements of all the pieces (please refer to the 3D model):
- A, B, C, D, E (Legs) – 28″ each (Total five pieces)
- F, G, H, I, J, K (L-Shaped Frame) – 32″, 24″, 62″, 90″, 30″, and 90″ respectively (Total six pieces)
Cutting and Welding:
I cut all the pieces using an angle grinder since I didn’t have a chop saw back then. The cut wasn’t accurate due to manual cutting, so I grind them to remove the imperfection.
I stacked the pieces according to their exact measurements and used my grinder to match their length. I also made the required holes to attach the panels because it’s easier now.
My Experience: No matter how precise your measurements are, you likely will face some challenges. In my case, the angle iron I purchased (around 20 feet) was slightly bent during transportation, affecting the measurements.
To weld, I started placing the pieces on a flat surface. According to the 3D design, first, I welded the L-shaped frame. If you have noticed, I cut 45-degree miters on the pieces, which make a perfect 90-degree corner joint. After that, I carefully attached the five legs and checked their direction angle with a speed square.
Finishing the L-shaped Frame
After finishing the weld, I turned the frame up in the right position. I started grinding and sanding the excessive weld to ensure a smooth finish on the joints. Later, I applied the primer coating and dark brown oil paint. As I often take photos on my desk for blogs, I needed a simple background, so I chose the dark brown color for the frame and white lamination for the block boards.
Crafting the Desktop and Drawer of L Desk
The metal frame is ready, and I need to work on the wooden part, which comprises the desktop, privacy panels, and drawer.
Woodwork for the Desktop
Desktop
The desktop consists of two boards, 90″ x 30″ and 32″ x 24″, which I cut down using a circular saw. After that, I applied white lamination to protect the surface and achieve a smoother finish.
Privacy Panels
In the 3D model, I designed the privacy panels with curved edges on top and a notch at the bottom. I used my jigsaw to cut the round edges on all corners. For the notch, I used a combination of a jigsaw and a circular saw. Then, I applied the lamination to the privacy panel.
Applying lamination is the trickiest and most messy part of any project. It tests perseverance. If the panel is large, you’ll need another person to help you apply the laminate.
How I Applied Lamination
First, use the specialized comb to apply wood glue to both surfaces and wait for it to dry. Then, carefully place the lamination over the board from one side, match its corners, and gradually lay it down. Remember, the lamination won’t slide after it is attached, and pulling it may tear it apart, which happened to me.
After careful application, you need to press the lamination with a cloth or soft object so that both layers bond properly. Also, you’ll need to secure it with tape on its corners so the lamination doesn’t separate.
Building the Drawers
Building a drawer can be tricky, especially for a novice. However, I finally succeeded with my trial-and-error method.
First, I started making the outer cabinet. By the way, you can make a drawer according to your requirements. Here are the dimensions of the pieces that I used to make the drawers.
Cabinet:
- Top and Bottom: 29.5″x20.5″ (x2)
- Sides: 29.5″x24.5″ (x2)
- Back: 24.5″:x18″
I attached all the pieces of the cabinet using wood glue, followed by the screws. I used an electric screwdriver drill to perform the task. Now it’s time to make the drawers.
Drawer:
- Face Panel (Outer): 20.5″x8.5″ (x3)
- Front and Back: 18.5″x7.5″ (x6)
- Side: 24″x7.5″ (x6)
- Bottom: 24″x7.5″ (x3)
Note: When deciding the width of the drawer, you must consider the channel’s thickness. That’s why the width of the front panel is slightly less than the outer width of the face panel.
I started assembling the drawers with the screws and the glue. I just left the face panel, which I will attach later. I carefully put all the drawers inside the cabinet and separated them with equal space. I marked the channel position using markers on the cabinet and the drawers.
Now, I pull out the drawers and attach the channels. In the channels, there are several types of holes; at first, I would recommend you to put screws at the movable holes, which will help you to adjust the drawer’s position later if needed. Finally, you can put the screw into the fixed holes if you’re satisfied with the fitting.
I also installed the locks in two drawers from the inside and made holes for the key in the front panel. Then, I started inserting the drawers into their channels one by one.
It’s time to attach the face panels. For that, I used a thin separator to align all the faces. The faces must cover the entire front area of the cabinet, according to my model. I used dual-sided tape to attach the face panels temporarily to secure their position. Then I pulled out the drawer and screwed the face panel from inside properly. Finally, I made the keyholes in the face panel and installed the handles by making two more holes in each drawer to screw them from inside.
Assembly and Final Touches
It’s time to assemble everything and complete our homemade L-shape desk.
Putting It All Things Together
First, I laid the desktops on the frame one by one. Since they were cut to the right length already, they flush perfectly with the frame. I started screwing the desktop from the bottom; as you know, I already made the holes in the angle bar for the screws before welding.
The desktops are now secured properly, and it’s time to attach the privacy panels. Unlike the desktops, the privacy panels needed more substantial support, so I joined them to the frame with machine nuts and bolts.
The desk’s sturdiness was unquestionable thanks to its metal frame, which ensures reliable stability. I even tried jumping on it, and it didn’t bend a bit, which was no surprise. However, it became quite heavy. That’s why I made a design that can be assembled and disassembled easily to move around, apart from the welded frame.
Aesthetic Touches
I painted the frame and cabinet dark brown, which looks amazing with white lamination. I made two holes in the desktops to pass the power cable to the bottom. Moreover, multiple power outlets are provided below the desk.
Lessons Learned and Tips
What Went Well: First, the desk’s durability is exceptional. Moreover, the way I can move my chair around is also practical. I can quickly work on both my laptops. As a novice, I never thought I could achieve a good finish.
Challenges and How I Overcame Them: Whatever you do, challenges are inevitable, but how you deal with them can make a big difference. I never did a project with plywood or metal, but I made it happen with my curiosity and ability to learn from online tutorials.
I struggled with the lamination application and used my father’s help. The welded frame wasn’t that accurate, and adding a privacy panel was a bit difficult but not impossible. Drawer-making is challenging, especially if you’re doing it for the first time, because a few mistakes can affect the outcome.
Advice for DIY Enthusiasts: Here are some common mistakes that you should avoid when doing a similar project.
- Make the frame attentively—focus on measurements, cutting, welding, and grinding because later, it can cause fitting issues.
- You can use a lighter board for the privacy panel to reduce the cost and weight, such as using an MDF or particle board.
- Make the holes in the angle bar before the welding; it’s relatively easier.
- First, secure the drawer channel with movable holes, which provide flexibility during adjustments.
How to Build Your Own DIY L-Shaped Desk
I have limited images and videos since I completed this project before starting this blog and YouTube channel. Making a DIY L-shaped desk or anything else isn’t complicated if you focus and do one thing at a time.
I have collected all the information I found and presented it to you so you can take inspiration from this project and make an even better homemade DIY L-shaped desk than me. If you have any questions, please let me know, and don’t forget to share your creation.
Hopefully, the information provided on this will be helpful; I appreciate your time for reading. Thank you so much, and keep crafting!