Symmetric Pair of Computer Desks

Detailed view from the left-hand desk

Problem

With this project, I wanted to get started with woodworking while coming up with two computer desks that would fit in our dining-room / computer lab.

• There should be room for 2 computers.
• Maximum of 9'
• Minimal depth of desks.
• Separation of the two workspace as much as possible.
• Must be doable for a beginner with very few tools
• The towers should be underneath, close to each other to share a printer, and protected from kicking.

Design

To meet the problem statement, I came up with the idea of making a pair of IKEA-styl.e symmetric desks. The design is all made of square angles and the joinery is simple. The objective here was to do it precisely so it doesn't look like a DIY project.  I chose Pine as it is cheap, easy to work with (in principle), and available in the correct stock in pre-planned and pre-jointed form from the hardware store. I bought an entry-level Miter Saw and a mid-range plunging router, which were added to a pretty basic set of tools that I already had such as cordless drill and some hand tools.

Of course, my daughter just can't resist
getting in every pictures.

Details: Symmetric Desks

Material: Pine (select and knotty), drawer hardware.

Joinery: Butt joints with dowels. Top surface made of joined boards.

Finish: Water-based Varathane Diamond Finish, satin. Three coats everywhere, except on the tabletop (4 coats), and sanding to 320 grit in between each coats.

Another view