How to Build a Kids Desk That Inspires Creativity (Beginner Friendly)
- Evren Wylie
- Jun 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 12
How to Build a Kids Desk That Inspires Creativity (Beginner Friendly)
A kids' desk should be more than a surface — it should be a space that inspires creativity, independence, and daily use. Here's how we built one that does just that, with simple tools and one sheet of plywood.
When I went looking for a desk for my own kids, everything felt… off. Too bulky. Too flimsy. Too expensive. Too covered in cartoon characters they’d outgrow in six months. I wanted something that would last, that felt intentional, and that would actually grow with them—something they could take pride in.
So I built one.
And now, I’m sharing that exact desk design with you.
Why Build a Kids Desk Yourself?
I get it. “Build it yourself” sounds like a weekend you don’t have time for. But hear me out.
Here’s what makes a DIY kids desk totally worth it:
You can size it just right. Not too tall, not too tiny—just perfect for the age and space you’re working with.
You control the look. Paint it rainbow, stain it natural, let your kid add stickers, stars, or scribbles. (Ours has all three.)
It means something. This isn’t just furniture. It’s a memory in the making.
Even if you’ve never picked up a power tool before, you can do this. I’ve designed our desk plan to be simple, clear, and beginner-friendly. You don’t need a full workshop or a contractor’s confidence—you just need a drill, two types of saw, and a little motivation to make something special.
What You’ll Need (Really, It’s Not Much)
Basic tools: drill, pocket hole jig (optional), circular and jig saw
A sheet of plywood
A free afternoon/day depending on your skill level
And our downloadable, step-by-step DIY Desk Plan
The plan includes:
Clear diagrams
A visual cut list
Tips for customizing the size
No confusing jargon, no fluff
This is the very same desk featured in our children’s book The Desk—a story about a little girl with big ideas and the space that helps her bring them to life. But even without the book, the desk stands on its own. It’s simple, beautiful, and made to be used (and covered in art supplies).
Make It Yours
One of my favorite parts? Letting kids help finish the project. Whether they pick the paint color or help with sanding (with supervision, of course), that moment of “we made this” is powerful.
Trust me: your kid will know the difference between a desk that showed up in a box and one that you built just for them.
Want to Build One Together?
You can grab the digital plans right here:
Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, this project is doable, meaningful, and designed with real families in mind.
And if you are the kind of family who loves storytime and sawdust? There’s a version of this desk that lives in a storybook too. But no pressure—start where you are. Build what you can. Let it be fun.
Thanks for being here. I hope you build something you love.
—Evren
Wylie Creative Co.
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