DIY Folding Drafting Desk

Drafting tables are a specialized table created for architects and draftsmen. These tables are angled from front to back to enable quick, obstruction free drafting of projects. Drafting tables can be expensive, which is why creating your own drafting desk is a cost effective option for completing the job. This task requires minor assembly and accurate measurements to complete. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Open one folding table leg kit. Slide one 18-inch section of PVC pipe over the bottom ends. Lay the leg assembly on the floor and push the PVC all the way up the legs until you reach the curve. Drive 3 of the 1.5-inch screws, evenly spaced along the length of the PVC pipe, where the metal leg is inserted. There will be an 8- to 10-inch difference in length between the metal and PVC legs.

2

Place the 36-by-42-inch plywood on a flat surface. The plywood should be positioned so it is running 42 inches from left to right, and 36 inches away from you. Measure in 8-inches from each corner along the 36-inch edges. This will determine the center 20 inches and demonstrate where to attach the leg assembly. Mark each 8-inch measurement with a pencil.

3

Place the adjustable leg kit, with the PVC leg attached, so it is closest to the top edge, or the edge furthest from you. Line the top connection on the legs with the two 8-inch marks. This ensures the legs will be attached directly in the center. Drive one 3/4-inch screw through each hole in the leg mounts.

4

Position the adjustable arms on the under side of the table, and then drive one 3/4-inch screw through each hole in the adjustable arms.

5

Repeat Steps 3 and 4 with the second adjustable leg kit, so that the leg with PVC attached is closest to the back edge, running parallel with the first leg. Use a drill to attach both sets of legs.

6

Position the drafting table with the higher legs in the back and the shorter legs closest to you. The drafting table will stand at an angle, enabling architects to draft with ease.

7

Cover the entire top surface of the plywood with rubber cement, and then roll on the Vyco sheet. Press the Vyco sheet onto the plywood to secure it. Use your arm to distribute pressure over the entire surface.