DIY Roll-Top Desk

Desk

• To make the roll-top desk from scratch you will need a set of plans, woodworking tools, building supplies and a base of knowledge to build upon. If you don't feel confident in your woodworking skills, you can commission a woodworker to build the desk according to your plans or you can hire someone to teach you. When building it yourself, you can choose the type of wood and the finish. Peruse plans carefully to determine function and storage possibilities. For instance, the desk can be built with or without a hutch.

Vintage Model

• Another idea for a do-it-yourself project is to refinish a vintage roll top desk. Whether you come across a model in a flea market or have one stashed away in a dark corner of your basement, attic or garage, vintage roll top desks can be found in many shapes and styles. Remove all hardware and sand the desk using a combination of a sander and sandpaper. The desk can be painted in a solid color, two-tone or stained. Another idea is to wallpaper the inside of the storage units for a different look. Give older versions of the roll top desk a modern update with sleek hardware in shiny metallic or crystal finishes.

Mock Roll-Top

• Start with a desk, add cabinets on either side and create your own roll top for a modified version of a roll-top desk. Inexpensive pieces can be found and painted or wallpapered to your liking. Place two narrow cabinets, filing cabinets or a book shelves to the top of either side of the desk. Hang a matchstick or Roman blind between the two shelves as a modified roll-top option. Choose a bright color for the Roman blind to tie into the existing decor of the room.

Other Ideas

• When mixing and matching different pieces such as a desk, shelving and the roll-top to form one unit, paint or stain the entire piece in one color to unify the look. Look for shelving and storage compartments that match the desk or stain everything to match. Combine the lower portion of one desk with the upper roll-top portion of another. Hide any unsightly areas with decorative trim and paint the entire piece one solid hue.