Turn any desk into a standing desk. The problem that standing desks try to solve is static posture. This works if you are changing from sitting to standing several times during the day. If you are just standing all day it does not really help you more than just sitting all day. The solution is a setup that allows you to stand or sit very easily. To accomplish this a desk riser and drafting chair or stool are needed. See my other instructable if you want to make the desk.

Step 1: Tools and Materials

Tools

1.Chop saw or circular saw

2.Table saw

3.Drill

4. 3/8” drill bit

Materials

2x4s lengths with depend on the width and rise needed for your desk. This particular instance used 6x 8’ 2x4s.

3/8” wooden dowel

2” screws

Step 2: Design

The rise for your individual desk with depend on the height of your current desk your currently working with. For This design the height of the desk and riser total 41”. This height allows me to have my arms at the keyboard when I am standing. For reference I am 5’9”. The sides of the riser are made from 2 parts with an overlapping panels. Sides panels are then attached to each other by using a few beams.

Step 3: Cut All the Things

Cut all the things Quite literally

Cut 2x4s so when they are placed together it will be 3x3 square. 2x(1.5x3)

The cut list is as follows. Adjust measurements accordingly to your needs.

4x 61”

4x 20”

4x 14”

4x 19”

4x25”(these will be cut short to 23-1/2 after gluing sides)

Step 4: Glue and Screw

Sides are glued using pipe clamps for the side panels. There are 4 panels in total. 2 of the inside patterns and 2 of the outside. Screws are added with a pilot hole for each screw and a ¼” counter-bore for the wooden dowel. Once panels are glued the inside panels can be cut so the width pieces can be added. Use screws to attach width pieces 4x. Pilot holes for the screws can be useful so the wood does not split.

Step 5: Just Dowel It.

Once the screws have been secured cut 3/8" dowel into 3/8"-1/2” segments. Put wood glue in each counter bore and place a dowel in the counter bore. Once the glue is dried use a coping saw or small hand saw to trim dowels flush.

Step 6: Sand

Sand to 120 grit or until it is silky smooth. Which ever comes first.

Step 7: Finish

Apply Danish oil using a rag. Wait 30 minutes between coats. 3-5 coats to get the desired look. The finish will have a flat natural wood color to it. If you want something with more gloss try a polyurethane finish.