Today’s project

A favorite design for both home and workplace for more than 200 years, the roll-top desk first became popular in the late 18th century. It’s hardly surprising, considering its classic marriage of attractive design and practical functionality.

This do-it-yourself version includes all of the features you would expect in any fine desk. It features seven big drawers (the bottom drawers on each side are deep enough for file folders) and two pull-out drawing boards in its pedestal base. The top includes 16 handy “pigeonholes” and two small drawers, plus the pull-down cover.

How to build it

Utilizing mostly straight cuts of standard lumber (pine or Douglas fir as pictured, but other wood may be substituted) and full-size patterns for the curved pieces, the desk is easy enough for most woodworkers. The project is designed to be built in sections from the bottom up: first the base, then the desktop, drawers and drawing boards. The top is added next and the tambour cover adds the finishing touch.

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

How to order the plan

The Roll-top Desk plan, No. 571, is $9.95 and includes step-by-step directions with photos, full-size traceable patterns, construction diagrams, a shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line for project questions.

A package of desk plans, No. C77, is $24.95 and includes this plan plus plans for a small roll-top desk, a secretary and a Franklin desk. Please include $4 for postage and handling (except catalog-only orders) and allow about two weeks for delivery.

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), 15241 Stagg St., Van Nuys, CA 91405.

To order by credit card, call (800) 828-2453.

Visit U-Bild on the Web at u-bild.com.