DIY Mid-Century Modern Desk (Remodelaholic)

Hi, it’s Amy from Hertoolbelt, back with another build plan. In case you missed the last project, we built a vintage crate shelf to get organized. This weeks project is a sleek mid-century modern desk that is inspired by this sweet desk.

This modern desk was previously available on Dot & Bo. Their desk was made from walnut which is gorgeous, but we can get a similar look with pine for less.

How to Build a Simple Modern Desk

Materials

2 – 3/4″ x 16″ x 48″ pine panel (stain grade panel is around $16)
1 – 1″ x 3″ x 8′ board (actual 3/4″ x 2 1/2″)
4 – table leg angle top plates (with 5/8″ screws)
4 – 27 1/2″ round taper table legs
wood glue
1 1/2″ or longer brad nails
sandpaper
stain/paint
top coat

There are a few variations that can be done with this simple mid-century modern desk build. Make a desk with a single panel.

Build a sleek box for a little added storage.

I have also seen modern desks with additional dividers in the box that add a little character.

Step 1

(If you are building the single panel desk, skip this step.) Cut the 1″x3″ into 2 or 3 – 16″ long pieces. You’ll want to sand all of the inner pieces of wood now, because they will be difficult to sand after assembly. Use wood glue and 1 1/2″ min brad nails to assemble the slim box. Make the 2 1/2″ x 16″ pieces flush with the ends of the panel. Nail from the panel into the 2 1/2″ x 16″ pieces from the top and bottom. If necessary, clamp the joints in place while the glue dries.

Step 2

On the backside of the panel, measure and mark 5″ from the ends and 1 9/16″ from the sides. You can also rotate your plate some to make the angled legs more defined from the side, and scoot your legs in a little more if you want, it just depends on the look you’re going for. Use the table leg angle top plate as a template and mark the screw holes. Drill small pilot holes, making sure not to drill all of the way through the panel. Secure the angle plates with 5/8″ screws. Repeat for each plate. Attach the legs onto plates.

Step 3

Remove any excess glue, apply wood filler to holes, cracks and blemishes and allow to dry. Sand the wood filler and desk until smooth finishing with 120-150 grit sand paper, always finish sanding in the direction of the grain. Apply stain or primer/paint to the desk and allow to dry. Apply a top coat/polyurethane/polycrylic as directed and allow to dry.

Enjoy your handmade Mid-Century Modern Desk!

For more build plans check out Hertoolbelt:

Rolling Counter Table // Scroll Console Table // Barn Wood Bed

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More DIY desks:

Turn kitchen cabinets into a built-in desk

Build a wide farmhouse-style computer desk

Build a wood and metal modern desk

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