Large computer desk first project

**Cuahtemoc** · 23rd February 2016, 11:30 PM

Hi guys.

I'm a big noob and have no idea where to start. At the moment I want to build a large, solid computer desk. My previous effort was a 1800 x 700 piece of veneered 25mm MDF with a shelf along the top for amplifier / monitor, mounted on 5 cheapie Ikea legs and it is quite unstable and not pleasant to use.

I am thinking of doing a desk frame built out of steel pipe and fittings with crossbracing, then mounting an 1800 x 800 piece of 35mm or so Baltic ply (A/C if I can find it in Adelaide) with an 1800 x 400 top shelf for amp / monitors / speakers. I'm guessing that using thick, heavy steel pipes with a proper braced box shape instead of 5 standalone vertical legs combined with the extra rigidity of ply over MDF should make the desk more pleasant to use and stable.

I'd like to build something similar to this, but with all black fittings and a ply top instead of butcher block (for cost reasons, unless someone knows a way to buy thick butcher block slabs cheap).

Iron Desk

Main questions are:

Any ideas on how to best finish plywood ? I like the look of 'plain' plywood, just want a nice looking hard wearing finish that can take the odd drop or spill without discoloring.

Also, where in Adelaide would I be able to buy a thick piece of a/c baltic ply cut to size ?

Thanks for any help.

**ian** · 24th February 2016, 01:58 PM

can't help with sourcing 35mm thick ply, but you might like to consider using 12 or 18mm ply and doubling / tripling the edges to get the effect of really thick ply without the expense

**snowyskiesau** · 24th February 2016, 03:22 PM

I built a large computer desk a couple of years ago. 2700mm x 800mm, L shaped with an 800mm return.
All made from 25mm MDF. So far, no sagging of the desk top.
Here's a thread I started about it, size is as originally planned but the right hand part (return) was reduced after I decided to relocate it.
The biggest problem I had was that 25mm MDF is heavy!

**hurcorh** · 26th February 2016, 10:38 PM

Otto timber have a good selection of furniture grade plywood. 35mm though will be hard to find and extremely heavy. Your best bet is to call them or go there. They have samples too for you to look at. The equivalent of Baltic birch ply for here in adl would be hoop pine ply. As a reference I got a quote for a full sheet of 19mm from Otto and it was like $250.

35mm will be very heavy. Take that into consideration. Check gumtree for timber slabs I always see cheap slabs on Gumtree you might be able to find one a suitable size but if you prefer the look of plywood two sheets of plywood on top of each other would get you your desired thickness and be easier to source than 35mm

**Cuahtemoc** · 2nd March 2016, 08:51 AM

Thanks guys, I'll check out Otto's and consider a thinner piece / 2 bolted together. Will post pics next week when I start building it.

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