Classic Styling Makes Roll-Top Desk A Favorite

The roll-top desk first became popular in the late 18th century. It’s not surprising that with its classic good looks and timeless “pigeonhole” styling, it has remained popular for some 200 years.

The roll-top desk is a favorite because it is functional as well as attractive. This do-it-yourself version has six roomy drawers (the two bottom drawers on each side are deep enough for file folders), one middle drawer and two pull-out draw boards on the lower section, and 16 handy nooks and two small drawers on the upper section.

It also has a pull-down roll-top cover, which is especially nice for those who keep a messy desk, or for those who would like to install a lock.

This project’s pedestal design allows do-it-yourselfers to build the desk section by section: First comes the pedestal base, then the desktop, drawers and draw boards, then the upper section with nooks and, last, the roll-top cover. Most of the cuts are straight cuts of pine or Douglas fir, and the curved cuts are traced from full-size patterns.

The finished desk measures 50 inches long by 43 inches tall by 28 inches deep.

The Roll-top Desk plan, No. 571, is $6.50 and includes step-by-step directions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, exploded diagrams and a shopping list and cutting schedule.

A plan for a smaller roll-top desk, No. 663, is also $6.50. It measures 42 inches tall by 35 inches wide by 19 inches deep. A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $3.95. Prices include sales tax, postage and handling (for first-class mail, add $1 per item).

MEMO: To order, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, CA 91409-2383. Please specify plan numbers.