Modern 2x2 Desk Base For Build Your Own Study Desk Plans

Maybe your like

Skip to main content The Learning Center - Learn Woodworking Skills for Better Project Outcomes Learn More

Home
Plan Catalog

Modern 2x2 Desk Base for Build Your Own Study Desk Plans diy storage desktop

|save this plan Difficulty Beginner Projects | Print this plan

Easy modern desk base. Free plans by ANA-WHITE.com

Collections Build Your Own Study Desk System storage desktop

Hi everyone! Happy Monday!!!

I'm at Ryobi this week working on new project plans for you and videos (and drooling over all the awesome tools) that will be coming soon. It's been a long trek, but well worth it - I can't wait to share these plans and videos with you!!! I love this Monday!!!

I hope your Monday is going fabulous as well. Did you get to any projects this weekend?

Over the last couple of weeks, I've been sprinkling in plans for a mix and match study desk system, perfect for your young student or small space -

We started with this super easy desktop plan. It's just two 24" x 48" plywood panels (you can buy off the shelf in these sizes so no need to rip plywood) with 1x3 frames sandwiched in between. It's the easiest storage desktop ever, and so functional! The super easy desktop plans are here.

Then I shared plans for this easy 2x4 base, complete with a built in footrest. Not only does it look great, it's sturdy and easy to make too! You can find the plans for these easy 2x4 desk base legs here.

For those of you who need a little more storage, these sawhorses with storage might be the perfect desk base for you. You can find the plans for these sawhorse storage legs here.

Now for today's plan, I wanted to give you something a little more modern, a little more masculine -

I love how this simple modern base turned out. So easy, so simple, but sturdy and visually appealing.

You can find the plans for this modern desk base below.

Happy building!!!

XO Ana

Dimensions desk base

Dimensions shown above

Preparation

Shopping List

3 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long

Common Materials 2 inch screws 2-1/2" Pocket Hole Screws Elmer's Wood Glue Elmer's Wood Filler 120 grit sandpaper Cut List

4 - 2x2 @ 26-1/2" 4 - 2x2 @ 21" 2 - 2x2 @ 33"

Tools

General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Instructions

Step 1

Build two of the leg frames with the Kreg Jig set on the 1-1/2" setting. Place the pocket holes on the outsides - this is a stronger joint and will be hidden by the floor and desktop when finished. Use glue and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws.

Step 2

Attach the two longer 2x2s at the back, again placing pocket holes on top and on underside of footrest. Use glue and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws.

Step 3

Place desktop on top and attach from inside with 2" wood screws.

Finishing Instructions Preparation Instructions Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth. It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed. Project Type Desk, Desk Systems and Project Table Plans Room office Teens Style Modern Style Furniture Plans Comments

Comments

theCelticFriar

Sat, 07/11/2015 - 04:49

desktop

The link for the desktop on this page is broken, I love the simplicity of the design ... need to see if I can actually pull it off.

In reply to desktop by theCelticFriar

JoanneS

Sat, 07/11/2015 - 07:49

Link to the desk top plan

Here's the link to the desktop:

http://ana-white.com/2015/01/free_plans/desktop-storage-compartments-bu…

pezgirl1978

Sun, 08/23/2015 - 21:32

desk base

I just started this project. Everything is measured, sanded, and stained. I'm now ready to start assembling the legs. Creating pocket holes on a 2x2 do I drill one or two pocket holes on each end?

wei

Sun, 05/08/2016 - 15:44

Ana, could you please re-create a link for the desktop?

Hello Ana,

I really like the plan and plan to build one for my son. But the link of the desktop is broken, could you please fix it or upload the plan again? Thank you!!

BR,

Wei

wei

Sun, 05/08/2016 - 15:44

Ana, could you please re-create a link for the desktop?

Hello Ana,

I really like the plan and plan to build one for my son. But the link of the desktop is broken, could you please fix it or upload the plan again? Thank you!!

BR,

Wei

Ana White Admin

Mon, 05/09/2016 - 12:51

link

http://www.ana-white.com/2015/01/free_plans/desktop-storage-compartment…

Brag Posts from this Plan

DIY Modern Desk

Simple DIY Desks by Bob The Builders Wife

Modern 2x2 desk

Study Desks

Cute corner desk

New work from home desk!

Modern desk

Storage Desk

See All Brag Posts for this Project

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use? Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead? Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped? Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture? Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build? Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw? A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw? Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood? Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use? We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes? Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square? Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building? A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish? Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish? Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size? Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly? Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build? Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need? A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop? Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up? Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional? Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start? Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last? With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture? Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture? Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!

Hello, I'm Ana White

I live in Alaska, where it's hard to find nice furniture. So I started building my own. I've been sharing my plans since 2009. I'm so glad you're here—learn more about me here.