Have you ever found yourself in need of a workspace while on the go, or perhaps cramped for space in a busy library or home office? Imagine the convenience of carrying a portable, foldable desk that pops up whenever and wherever you need it. That’s exactly what this DIY Portable Standing Desk offers. Perfect for those who value flexibility and creativity in their workspaces, this project is not just a functional piece of furniture but a fun weekend challenge that can transform the way you work or pursue your hobbies.
DIY Portable Standing Desk Project
Materials Used
- 1 piece of 4’ by 4’ plywood underlayment (approximately 1/4” thick)
- 2 pieces of 8′ one by 12 pine boards
- Aluminum Tube 6061-T6-Drawn round tubes (8ft of each size)
- 0.875″ OD x 0.049″ Wall x 0.777″ ID
- 1″ OD x 0.049″ Wall x 0.902″ ID
- 4 Kayak Paddle Tent Pole Push Button Spring Snap Clip Locking Tube Single Pin (8mm)
- Wood Glue
- 5 min Epoxy
- 6 Small-angle brackets
- 4 3″ ¼”-20 hex bolts
- 8 ¼” ID nylon bushings
- 4 7/8″ internal dia round chair/table rubber caps
- 1 30” long 1.5″ wide piano hinge
- 1 48” long 1.5” wide piano hinge
- 4 star knobs with female 1/4″ thread
- 4 3″ Tee hinges
- Assorted sandpaper
- Metal polish
- 4 Small rubber bumpers
- 4 Box latches
- ~130 #8 3/4″ screws
- Strap handle
- 10ft of 1/4″ dowel
Tools Used
- Table Saw
- Miter Saw
- Hand saw
- Spring clamps
- 3’ Bar clamps
- Small Bar Clamps
- Router (with Roundover bit) or sandpaper
- Drill press
- Hand Drill
- Hand Drill Guide
- Drill bits
- Hammer
- Random Orbit Sander
- Hacksaw or Dremel with metal cutoff disk
- Metal File
- Band clamp
- Combination square
- Dial caliper
- Speed square
Step-By-Step Making Process
Material Design Considerations
Early Design Thoughts:
Opted initially for aluminum as the material of choice due to its lightweight and strength. After experimenting, switched to wood for feasibility.
The Tabletop:
Utilized 1/4″ underlayment for cost-effectiveness and ease of manipulation.
The Frame:
Constructed from reclaimed 1 by pine boards and leftover 1/4″ plywood, emphasizing sustainability and personal value.
Tabletop and Trim
Size and Splitting:
The underlayment was cut into two pieces measuring 24″ x 30″ each.
Trim Framework:
Cut 1.5″ wide pine boards, then crafted a rabbet slightly deeper than the plywood’s thickness. Assembled the trim using wooden adhesive, ensuring minimal gaps through strategic clamping.
The Frames
Laminating Frames:
Laminated dimensional lumber and plywood for added strength. After ensuring a secure bond, edges were made flush using a table saw.
Mitered Frame Construction:
The miter joints were carefully measured and cut to ensure a snug fit, forming a rectangular frame that secures the tabletop effectively.
This project not only provides a practical solution to workspace dilemmas but also invites you to craft a unique piece that reflects personal style and functional needs. Whether for daily use or as an occasional stand-in during travel or family visits, the “Anywhere” Portable Standing Desk is sure to enhance productivity and comfort wherever you choose to set it up.
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