Step #4) After you have fastened the 1” x 8” board to the plywood sections, and have created the L shape of your desk, you will need to install the legs of the desk. You can purchase desk legs from the internet for around $20 per set of two. You will want at least 5 legs underneath your desk. Two on both sides of the L shape, as well as one more behind where you installed the 1” x 8” joining bracket.
Step #5) Once you have installed the legs for your desk it is now time to begin painting the unit. With a heavy duty epoxy or oil based paint, add on the first coat. Make sure that you cover every square inch of the desk to avoid any paint peeling or chipping off later. After the first coat has had sufficient amount of time to dry, you will need to put down two more coats to complete the paint finish. Three thick coats will give you a durable finish that will last for many years to come.
Step #6) After the paint coats have cured, you will need to install the trim around the outside edges of the plywood, to help prevent any splinters or rough edges. The most common type of trim used is 1” quarter round. This will create a rounded, or bevelled edge that will prevent your arms from getting rubbed raw, while also prevent damage to your chair when it bumps into the desk. Use finishing nails to attach the trim to the plywood, to avoid splitting the quarter round while also making sure that you can hide the nails later on.
Step #7) Once you have installed the trim you will need to give it the first coat of paint. This first coat is going to soak into the wood, much in the same manner as what happened during step #5, so you will need to plan on going over it again at least 2 more times. Take your time while applying the first coat to make sure that you do not create any runs or drips on the desk, or create thicker areas on the plywood where you have already painted. Once the first coat is dried, add two more additional coats and give them ample amount of time to cure.
Now that you have painted the desk, and have the legs installed, you can place the desk into your home office and begin enjoying the fruits of your hard labor.
