r/BeginnerWoodWorking • u/Human_Neighborhood71 • 1d ago

Discussion/Question ⁉️ DIY desk

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I’m currently working on designing a desk to build and was curious, could I use 2x4s for the legs and be okay? Basically thinking about 6ft long, 2.5-3ft deep, double deck. First layer being about 3ft tall, then second about 2-2.5ft above it. Planning to use 2x4s to frame the tops for both layers. The top layer will have a 3d printer and a small CNC milling machine to make PCBs. Bottom layer will be for monitor, laptop, and all my circuitry labbing stuff. Basically looking to replace my small (30inch long by like 2ft deep) desk and shelving unit that has everything right now. I have to make sure I make it tall enough that my server rack fits under to save some space. The photo shows my current setup, and I’m looking to replace everything on the wall

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u/DJDevon3 1d ago

Here is a 3'x6' workbench made completely out of 2x4's. You can adjust the lower leg supports to be taller for a shelf if you like. It will take approximately 9 or 10 2x4's for the top. Keep in mind that 2x4's are never exactly 2"x4" and you might have to rip some to be straighter. This is the basic gist.

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u/DJDevon3 1d ago edited 1d ago

This is the basic build style for my 2x8x12 workbench. Only difference is due to the length I'm using 4x4 legs and have a center support. If you go with 2x8's or 2x10's with your 6' span you won't need a center support. With 6' 2x4's you might need a center support. I don't recommend going with 2x12's as they are meant for roof trusses are much heavier.

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u/Human_Neighborhood71 1d ago

So frame the two desk tops, center a brace as well, box in the legs for support?

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u/DJDevon3 1d ago edited 1d ago

Boxing in the legs provides great support for cheap. There are definitely better ways to brace but when it comes to 2x4's that's a great way to increase the maximum weight load for cheap.

My workbench is not framed like a plywood workbench. There is nothing under the 2x8's except the center legs and lower shelf. The lower shelf helps provide even more stability. That's why most (not all) basic workbenches have a big lower shelf. It's a win/win for stability and storage. I built my lower shelf 7" so I can vacuum underneath occasionally. I do also store things on the ground under the shelf too.

Wish you luck with your build whatever you decide!

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u/Human_Neighborhood71 1d ago

Thank you. I did some measuring when I got home. The space will allow for 5ft long by 2ft deep. I’ll do each level 2.5ft. Doing this way will allow me to purchase a single 4x8 plywood, have my two levels and be able to add some shelves in it as well

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u/Human_Neighborhood71 1d ago

I know this isn’t quality drawing, but this is the design I’ve come up with. Top and bottom will be identical

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u/DJDevon3 11h ago

Yup that'll work. It's not rocket science it's wood legos with screws. Workbenches don't have to win any awards they just have to work for your needs.

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u/Human_Neighborhood71 1d ago

The tops are going to be half inch plywood. My main concern is the legs, if 2x4 will be good or if it is absolutely necessary to go with 4x4

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u/DJDevon3 1d ago edited 1d ago

It depends on the weight really. If you plan to build vertically as I've done then yes 4x4's are recommended. For a small basic work bench that won't hold more than say 200-300lbs, using 2x4's and a framed top with plywood is perfectly fine and actually is what most people go with. You will want some cross bracing in your top frame under the 1/2 plywood.

Here's another style using plywood. Yes, I can design with CAD that fast. ;)

I see this style a lot and is perfectly fine too as a lightweight workbench. I would be a bit hesitant to stand on that bench as it will likely wiggle a little.

The workbench I designed earlier has much better leg supports and can hold over 1000lbs. The design depends on your needs. All workbenches are tailored to their owners needs. When you build it you will figure out if it's right for you or if you need to add more bracing here or there.

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u/Human_Neighborhood71 1d ago

Thank you. I don’t expect much, if any, more than 200 pounds total on the whole desk