The Power Tools

When I first got into building wiring systems for major media outlets, one of my first jobs was actually making my own home studio desk using simple materials that could be bought any any building materials store, and all the power tools I needed were a jigsaw and DeWalt router. Admittedly, I got some help, but it turned out to be something I could easily have done on my own.

We first bought a 4′ x 8′ piece of formica-finished particle board and some vinyl tap-in table edging. We then cut rounded corners and cut out a slight alcove with the jigsaw for my chair to fit in, giving the desk a “wrap-around” feel. We then took the DeWalt router and cut out a groove in the edge around the entire desk. If doing this yourself, you want to make sure the router bit will cut a groove exactly in the middle for the final step. When you have a groove cut, fit the tongue on the back of the vinyl edging into the groove you just cut. The fit should be snug, and may require some light tapping of a hammer to secure in place. Remember not to tap too hard or you could wind up scuffing the finish.