how to Create a DIY Floating Desk

Scott Jul 20, 2026
DIY Floating Desk - Well She Tried
DIY Floating Desk - Well She Tried

Creating a DIY floating desk is a fun and rewarding project that can add a touch of modernity to any home or office. With a few simple materials and some basic DIY skills, you can create a stunning floating desk that not only looks amazing but also provides ample space for your work or study needs.

DIY Floating Desk - Well She Tried
DIY Floating Desk - Well She Tried

Before we dive into the DIY process, it's essential to understand the concept of a floating desk. A floating desk is a type of desk that appears to be floating on the wall, giving the illusion that it's not attached to the floor. This design creates a sense of openness and makes the room appear larger than it actually is.

DIY Floating Desk Under $100
DIY Floating Desk Under $100

Materials and Tools Needed

The materials and tools needed for this project are relatively simple and can be found at most hardware stores or home improvement centers. Here are the essential materials and tools you'll need:

Create a Cozy Floating Desk in Any Corner
Create a Cozy Floating Desk in Any Corner

• 1/2-inch plywood or MDF (for the desk top)

• 3/4-inch plywood or MDF (for the shelf)

there are many pairs of shoes on the floor in front of an open drawer that is holding tools
there are many pairs of shoes on the floor in front of an open drawer that is holding tools

• Wood glue

• 1 1/4-inch wood screws

• 1-inch wood screws

28 DIY Floating Desk Ideas For Work Space
28 DIY Floating Desk Ideas For Work Space

• Drill press

• Jigsaw or circular saw

• Sandpaper

How To Build Simple Floating Desks DIY | DIY Home Projects | DIY House Projects | DIY Office
How To Build Simple Floating Desks DIY | DIY Home Projects | DIY House Projects | DIY Office

• Paint or stain (optional)

Measuring and Cutting the Materials

Simple DIY Floating Desk
Simple DIY Floating Desk
the corner of a room is shown with measurements
the corner of a room is shown with measurements
How to Make a Floating Desk that's Simple, Sturdy & Inexpensive
How to Make a Floating Desk that's Simple, Sturdy & Inexpensive
Budget-Friendly DIY Floating Desk for Under $100
Budget-Friendly DIY Floating Desk for Under $100
How to build a floating desk
How to build a floating desk
🛠 DIY Wall-Mounted Drop-Down Table – Space-Saving Workstation
🛠 DIY Wall-Mounted Drop-Down Table – Space-Saving Workstation
A DIY Floating Desk in the Game Room – Love & Renovations
A DIY Floating Desk in the Game Room – Love & Renovations
Best DIY desks
Best DIY desks

Before you start building your floating desk, you'll need to measure and cut the materials to the correct size. For this project, you'll need to cut the 1/2-inch plywood or MDF to the desired length and width for the desk top. You'll also need to cut the 3/4-inch plywood or MDF to the correct size for the shelf.

It's essential to use a tape measure to ensure that your measurements are accurate. You can also use a ruler or a measuring tape to double-check your measurements. Once you've cut the materials, set them aside for the next step in the process.

Assembling the Desk Frame

With the materials cut to size, you can now start assembling the desk frame. This is a crucial step in the process, as it will determine the stability and structural integrity of your floating desk. To assemble the desk frame, you'll need to use wood glue and 1 1/4-inch wood screws to attach the sides to the top and bottom pieces.

Make sure to use a drill press to ensure that your screws are evenly spaced and securely attached. You can also use a level to ensure that the desk frame is level and plumb.

Attaching the Shelf and Desk Top

Once the desk frame is assembled, you can now attach the shelf and desk top. For this project, you'll need to use 1-inch wood screws to attach the shelf to the desk frame. Make sure to use a level to ensure that the shelf is level and plumb.

With the shelf attached, you can now attach the desk top to the desk frame. Use wood glue and 1 1/4-inch wood screws to attach the desk top to the desk frame. Make sure to use a level to ensure that the desk top is level and plumb.

Finishing the Floating Desk

With the desk frame and shelf attached, you can now finish the floating desk. This is the final step in the process, and it involves sanding and painting or staining the desk to match your desired color and style.

Use a sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or surfaces. You can also use a paint or stain to match your desired color and style. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the paint or stain, and apply it according to the recommended application instructions.

With your floating desk complete, you can now install it in your home or office. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation, and ensure that the desk is securely attached to the wall to prevent it from falling.

Overall, building a DIY floating desk is a fun and rewarding project that can add a touch of modernity to any home or office. With the right materials and tools, you can create a stunning floating desk that not only looks amazing but also provides ample space for your work or study needs.