How to Make a Desk With Storage Cubbies

Half-inch plywood is plenty sturdy for our desktop, which is 27 by 48 inches. If you want a wider or deeper desk, opt for ¾-inch plywood, or affix stringers to the underside of the desktop to prevent sagging.

CUT LIST

You can use the cut list below or download the cut list to build a desk with storage hutch here.

Acrylic tabletop: 1 @ 27 by 48 inches. Cut on your line, rather than beside it, to the outside for a slightly easier fit within the molding.

½-inch plywood desktop: 1 @ 27 by 48 inches

½-inch plywood back: 1 @ 7 ¾ by 41 ½inches*

½-inch plywood sides: 2 @ 7 ¾ by 20 ½ inches*

*Measurement may vary with leg style. To determine the height of the back and sides, measure the square post portion at the top of the leg.

½-inch plywood cubby sides: 2 @ 7 ¾ by 12 inches

½-inch plywood cubby top and bottom: 2 @ 12 by 13 inches

1x3 apron: 1 @ 27 ½ inches

1x2 cleat: 1 @ 41 ½ inches

1x2 cleat: 2 @ 20 ½ inches

1x2 cleat: 1 @ 27 ½ inches

1x2 cleat: 6 @ 6 ½ inches

1x2 cleat: 2 @ 1 ¾ inches

1x2 strip: 1 @ 14 inches

Hutch shelves: 2 cut to size between the vertical dividers and depth of the hutch

¼x5 vertical dividers: 3 @ desired height; make them at least 4 ¼ inches tall to accommodate a standard envelope. Cut to the depth of the cabinet.

Hardboard: 1 cut to the height and width of the cabinet.