While it may not sound like something crucial for a supply checklist, having a simple yet ergonomic computer desk in your house can solve several problems if it’s built the right way. But the thing is, if you’re ready to spend a lot of money on a computer desk, you may not get the quality you’re hoping for.
Building a simple computer desk isn’t hard, but knowing how it’s done isn’t something many computer enthusiasts know (even when they know computer desks play a significant role in the overall experience). A computer desk is a perfect spot for kids to get things done, and parents can use one to organize office work, too.
The DIY alternatives of computer desks are a lot more affordable, and they aren’t too hard to build either! Check out these simple to assemble ideas.
A Sawhorse Desk
A sawhorse desk is possibly one the most affordable and simplest ways to assemble a computer desk for your house. You’ll need two freestanding trestles for the edges, and a desktop will go on top, and you’re done building a simple computer desk! Whether you build a homemade sawhorse or buy a pre-built trestle, the only thing you’ll have to choose is the material or the size of the surface you’re going to put objects on.
Some of the trestles you find in the market may have added space for storage and have an adjustable height, too. They’re pretty affordable and are a bit more expensive than a sawhorse. An even more budget-friendly option would be a workshop sawhorse you can get from a local hardware store.
Shelf Computer Desk
Is building a simple computer desk possible with just a shelf?
Yes!
With two strong brackets a working surface of your choosing (you can find several on Amazon), you can create a workable and straightforward computer desk that gets the job done. This desk can pass almost every test you put it through, and it won’t cost too much either!
Just get two metal brackets, screw them onto a wall, and then screw the surface onto the metal bracket, and you’ll have a desk that doesn’t take up too much space! That said, leave some room on the sides of the wall so you can let the wires hang down from the computer.
Amazon Door Desk
Do you have a solid door that is structurally sound? If you do, you’re in luck! Even if you don’t, getting strong won’t cost you too much money, and it can be a lot more affordable than getting a piece of wood and cutting it down to size.
In this case, you’ll have to install wooden legs to the door, and it’ll be strong enough to hold your computer, laptop, or any other object!
Desk with Iron Pipes
Desks that are built with iron piping have been seeing a surge in popularity for recent years. You can find several ideas of desks with iron pipes on Pinterest with all sorts of designs and colors, and it’s not hard to see why! These desks look minimalistic but aesthetically pleasing, which makes them perfect for all kinds of spaces.
By having access to the right tools, this desk can be built easily without you having to scale down in size.
- 30” x 3/4″ (x4)
- 18” x 3/4″ (x2)
- 12” x 3/4″ (x2)
- 6” x 3/4″ (x4)
- 3.5” x 3/4″ (x3)
- 3/4″ Tee (x6)
- 3/4″ Coupling (x2)
- 3/4″ Cap (x4)
- 3/4″ Flange (x4)
- 2′ x 4′ Stain Grade Board
- Stain
- Polyurethane
- Screws
A Hybrid Computer Desk
Standing desks have become increasingly popular, and there are several good reasons you should consider getting an adjustable desk. That said, desks that let you work while you’re standing or sitting aren’t too affordable.
One brilliant way of cutting down the cost is by converting a portion of the desk into a standing desk set. The resulting desk will be one that can fit into your home quickly. You can buy the required parts and build the desk with simple tools.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- MDF Board
- Legs
- Ikea Adils Legs
- Ikea Capita Bracket
- Ikea Kallax Shelving Unit
- Screws
- Paint
- Steel Tie Plates
Adjustable Desk
An adjustable desk is an excellent option if you’re trying to save space. This table can completely move up and down according to your need rather than having a large surface dedicated to a sitting space for you on the desk. Buying a prebuilt adjustable desk can be costly since they have several additional components compared to a traditional computer desk. That said, you can build one at home if you have the right tools needed for the job.
Consider getting all of these tools cut from the store you’re getting them from (HomeDepot, perhaps). Since it has an adjustable height, people of different heights can easily use it.
- 2 x (16″x36″x3/4″ pine board)
- 1 x (20″x36″x3/4″ pine board)
- 3 x (2″x2″x96″ fir post)
- 2 x (#10 3/4″ wood screws)
- 35 x (#10 1-1/4″ wood screws)
- 20 x (#12 2-1/4″ wood screws)
- 2 x (carriage bolts suitable to use as lock-pins)
- 4 x (1/4″ pulleys)
- 2 x (pair of 18″ drawer slides)
- 2 x (8″ shelf bracket)
- 2 x (8″ T-brackets)
- 4 x (large eyelet screw)
- 1 x (3m of static paracord)
- Sandpapers
- Paint
Bookcase Desk
If you’re looking for a desk that is sleek and affordable, look no further! The beauty of this design lies in its simplicity of the design. Just put the tabletop on the floor and then take a screwdriver and fix the shelves into one place. After that, flip the table and enjoy your new table!
- White 2 Shelf Cube Storage
- White 3 Shelf Cube Organizer
- Weathered Gray 2 Shelf Cube Storage
- Pink 2 Shelf Cube Storage
- Espresso 2 Shelf Cube Storage
- Cherry 3 Shelf Cube Storage
- White 3 Shelf Organizer (Not Pictured)
- Marble Look, Contact Paper
- Globe
- 13″ Fabric Storage Bin
- Brass Lamp
Why Should You DIY a Desk?
Once you’re done reading all of these different ideas to DIY a desk, you may wonder if all of this hard work is worth it. We don’t blame you! Reading all these different ideas may excite some people, but there may be another group that lets out an exasperated gasp thinking of all the work they need to do if they ever think of building a simple computer desk. Moreover, why do people DIY entirely?
Well, here are a few reasons:
You Get to Save Money
Admittedly, this is possibly one of the most prominent reasons people consider building stuff on their own. They save money and enjoy and there’s no harm in picking up a tool once in a while. While you may not be skilled enough initially to get the job done, you’ll get the hang of it with time. Just remember to wear essential safety gear!
You’ll Get Exactly What You Want
Do you know that feeling when you know what you want to see inside your home but can’t seem to find it in the market? Even if you hired a builder to build a simple computer desk, you’d have a problem explaining the project to them since what you’re looking for doesn’t exist. In this case, you go ahead with the project, and the result is close to what you wanted but not exactly what you needed.
This leaves a gaping hole that continues to get bigger whenever you see that object. This could be a desk, a chair, or even a fence, we have an inherent need for perfection, and it constantly sends us a reminder when something just doesn’t feel right. Well, even though it may seem incurable, this problem goes away when you DIY. You’re in the driving seat and what you say goes.
You’re never going to cut corners because, at the end of the day, you’re the only person responsible for building the desk of your dreams.
You Get to Learn New Skills
Research has proven time and time again that learning new skills helps keep our brains young for a long time. Remember this the next time you’re considering buying an object that you can easily DIY. Not only will you have a lot of fun while building what you need, but you’ll also learn a few skills that you’ll use your whole life!
Wrapping Up
So there you have it! Who knew there were several fun ways of building a simple computer desk? While the process may seem daunting initially, it can get easier with time if you keep experimenting with different ideas. Just remember to keep yourself open to all kinds of avenues, a great DIY idea can come from anywhere!
