How to Build a Rustic Desk

  If you are looking to build an elegant looking and rustic desk you've come to the right place! This desk or side table is easy to build and makes a great weekend project. The desk consists entirely of 2×4, 2×6, and 1×4 boards. The only special tool you'll need is a KregJig. I got mine off Amazon and it is one of my favorite tools in the shop! Since getting one, a couple of my good friends and family members have added them to their tool box.

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Approximate Cost of Supplies using Construction Grade Pine – $60

Main Tools Used

Kreg Jig

Dewalt 12″ miter saw

Dewalt 18 Volt Drill

Jigsaw

Orbital Sander

Step 1 – Print plans and Gather Your Materials

I used Ana White's plans for this project. She teamed up with Whitney from Shanty2Chic.com to create this beautiful piece of work.

Watch My Video Tutorial

Check out my modification 

The only modifications I made to Ana's plans were to make the top out of 2×6's and to add breadboards to each end.

So, for the top you'll need to cut:

QTY 4   2×6 x 61″

QTY 2  2×6 x 22.5″ (breadboard ends – will cut down about 1/4 to 1/2 inch once you are ready to connect it to the four boards that are kreg jigged together.

Step 2 – Make Your Cuts

Use a miter saw to make all your cuts. If you don't have one, I'd recommend getting a 12″ Dewalt Miter Saw for your DIY projects.

Step 3 – Assemble I-Beam Desk Supports

Use 2×4's and the 1×4 to make the I-Beams. Assemble using screws or a nail gun. Use glue when attaching the 4 cross supports (shown in tutorial video).

Step 4 – Connect the two I-Beams

Use your Kreg Jig to drill pocket holes in the aprons and supports that span the width of the deck. If you desk will be against a wall, I'd recommend having the pocket holes on the outside.

Step 5 – Add Cross Supports

Step 6 – Attach Top

Attach the top to the base using the pocket holes. (Shown in tutorial video)

 Step 7 – Finish (Stain)

For this table I used the dark walnut stain from Minwax. Wipe 1 coat on with a clean rag and let it dry.

Step 7  – Add Polyurethane

Brush on 2 coats of polyurethane. Once the second coat is completely dry, use a block sander with 300 grit paper to lightly sand the table. Once sanded, blow off the dust and then wipe with a clean and damp rag. Once dry, use a clean cloth to wipe a thin third coat of poly on the entire piece. Let dry and then you are done!

Check out this video for tips on how to distress, stain, and apply polyurethane!

Finished Desk

Thanks so much for checking out my tutorial! I hope it inspires you to build this desk and that you enjoy it for years to come. If you run into questions make sure to check out the video at the top of the post or comment below with any questions. Good luck and have fun!!  – DIY PETE

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