Roll-Top Desk Offers Practical, Classic Appeal

Fri., Aug. 15, 1997

Don And Dave Runyan U-Bild Features

First popular in the late 18th century, the roll-top desk has remained a favorite for some 200 years. It’s not surprising, considering its timeless “pigeonhole” styling that combines functional practicality with an attractive design.

This do-it-yourself version includes all of the features you would expect in a fine desk. The base contains six roomy drawers (the two bottom drawers on each side are deep enough for file folders), a wide middle drawer and two pull-out drawing boards. Up above, there are 16 handy nooks and two small drawers. It also has a pull-down roll-top cover, which is especially nice for hiding a messy desktop or locking up important papers.

The project’s pedestal design allows do-it-yourselfers to build the desk in sections. The pedestal base is built first, then the desktop, drawers and drawing boards. The upper section with nooks is next and, finally, 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 $8.95 and includes step-by-step directions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, exploded diagrams and a shopping list and cutting schedule.

A package of desk plans, No. C77, is $21.95 and includes this plan plus plans for a small roll-top desk, a secretary and a Franklin desk. A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $3.95. Prices include postage and handling. Please allow 3-4 weeks for delivery (for rush delivery, add $1 per item up to $3 maximum and allow about one week).

MEMO: To order by mail, 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.

To order by mail, 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.

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