How to Repair a Rolltop Desk Drawer

A rolltop desk is an attractive piece of traditional furniture that will last for generations if well maintained. Over time the drawer may develop loose corner joints. It is important to repair a drawer as soon as you notice it is damaged to prevent further problems from developing. You can easily repair the drawer and make it functional again by gluing the joints. Take your time and make the repair carefully so your rolltop desk will provide years of use.

Putty knife
Fine-grit sandpaper
Wood glue
Frame clamp
Damp cloth

Instructions

- 1
  Pull the drawer out of the rolltop desk opening and set it on a work surface. Inspect the drawer for loose corner joints.
- 2
  Slide the blade of a putty knife into any loose corner joints. While the joint is spread open with the putty knife, lightly sand the surface of the wood to remove any remnants of the glue from the joint using a piece of fine-grit sandpaper.
- 3
  Apply a bead of wood glue between the boards at each loose joint. Remove the putty knife after you apply the wood glue and press the joint together with your hands.
- 4
  Center a frame clamp around the desk drawer and tighten it. Wipe off any excess glue that seeps out from the glued joints with a damp cloth.
- 5
  Allow the glue to dry for 24 hours and remove the frame clamp. Insert the drawer into the opening in the rolltop desk.

DIY Cube Desk

How to Make Holes in Cabinet Doors for Overlay Hinges

Woodworking