Rustic X Desk

Build your own farmhouse desk from Uses all off the shelf dimensional boards (no plywood!), easy to build with our step by step plans.

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

What you need

3 - 2x4 @ 8 feet or stud length (92-5/8")
2 - 2x6 @ 10 feet
5 - 2x2 @ 8 feet (I used 2x2 furring strips)
1 - 1x10 @ 6 feet

Step by step

Drill two 1-1/2" pocket holes on each end of the 2x4s @ 17-3/4".

Attach to the legs at the top. Attach bottom with a 3" space underneath. Keep pocket holes on the outsides. Use 2-1/2" pocket hole screws. Build three identical.

Scribe the X detailing in place in the legs.

Cut out on a compound miter saw. Attach with glue and 2" brad nails. Add X detailing to all three.

For middle shelf, attach 2x2 cleat with 2" brad nails and wood glue.

Do this only for two of the legs.

Drill 3/4" pocket holes to connect two 1x10s together and attach with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

Then drill 3/4" pocket holes on all four sides of the shelves (2 on each side) and attach with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws to the sides.

Take a measurement in between the two legs and cut six 2x2s to this measurement.

Drill a single 1-1/2" pocket hole on each end. Then attach with 2-1/2" pocket hole screw and glue. Also attach shelf to the 2x2 with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws through holes drilled in step 4.

Step 6

Attach the remaining leg set to the desk with 2x2s and pocket holes.

Build the desktop first with 1-1/2" pocket holes and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws.

Attach base to underside of desktop.

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.