Why not make it yourself!?

A couple of months ago, we wanted a desk for our home however, given our home is rather an old build it meant we would need to make something unique that can fit in tiny and tight spaces. At first, we thought the best way to go around creating this would be to seek out a small business that customizes such things. Until we recognized that although this would support small businesses, it would not necessarily support the sustainable lifestyle we try our best to attain. So, we decided to make our own!

Now at first reading this it may read a bit daunting for one building their very own desk however, I can assure you it was the total opposite and rather a fun and simple enough process. We started first by going to our local B&Q store, where we bought some OSB board that is cut in-store to your required measurements. For those of you who may not know this. B&Q will cut whatever board you need in-store without any additional charge. Anyway, back to building our desk but first, some interesting information about why we chose this wood. Well, there are many reasons, however, just to mention a few; is that this type of board is made from wood found in fast-growing trees meaning less land needs to be allotted to acquire this. Next, is that they make for a unique look and a budget-friendly DIY. Who wouldn't try this specific wood type out with such great points!?

Once the board was cut, we brought it home and lightly sanded it down with some sandpaper, we already had on hand. We wiped the board clear with a dry worn dishcloth and started measuring where the raw steel desk legs would go, once they were all measured up we secured each leg one by one. Fun fact, we chose raw steel for the legs as not only does it have a much better environmental impact compared to other material types but it also fits in best with our style, which if I do say so myself, seems like a great WIN!

The final touch was to varnish the wood, which I suppose depending on how you look at it can have both a pro and a con, being that the pro: varnishing the wood will thus make this last longer without the need for either making or purchasing a whole new desk in the future and con: unfortunately it is hard to come by varnish that is not toxic to yourself and the environment however, there are some varnishes you can buy, that are known as UV varnishes meaning they don't release VOC's (volatile organic compounds) into the atmosphere as the product dry’s. Despite how small this win may seem it is a win nevertheless!

I hope that this blog inspires you to create something of your own for your home. Although this may read daunting it was not, and all we needed was some wood, desk legs, and some tools which I am sure most of us would have at home anyway (sandpaper, measuring tape, pencil, drill, paintbrush), and lastly varnish. Piece this all together and VOILA! there you have your very own carpentry masterpiece. Until next time!

Casey xxx