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What is a Wall Mounted Desk and How to Build One - DIY projects - Contractor Supplies
June 9, 2025 Dominique Sousa

What Is a Wall Mounted Desk and How to Build One

Howdy y’all! It’s your favorite tool-slingin’ Texan, Tom the Builder, back with another DIY project to turn your fix-it dreams into solid, screw-tight reality. Today we’re talkin’ about a real space-savin’, style-boostin’ marvel: the wall mounted desk. More than a space saving and trendy addition to any small room, a wall mounted desk is functional and easy to do yourself. And lemme tell ya, building a wall mounted desk is easier to build than catchin’ catfish in a kiddie pool.

Whether you're lookin' to add a study nook for the kids, a home office setup for remote workin', need to space space but need a handy spot for bills and knick-knacks, a wall mounted desk is the perfect DIY project. 

By the time we’re done, you’ll know what a wall mounted desk is, why it’s worth buildin’, and how to whip one up yourself using reliable, contractor-grade materials from ContractorSupplies.com. Grab your pencil and tape measure—we’re gettin’ to work!

What Is a Wall Mounted Desk?

Picture this: a sleek, sturdy slab of workspace mounted right on your wall—no legs, no clutter, just pure utility. A wall mounted desk is exactly what it sounds like—a desk that attaches to the wall, savin’ precious floor space while keepin’ things lookin’ sharp.

Perfect for:

  • Small rooms or apartments
  • Multi-purpose rooms
  • Workstations & Workshops
  • Home Offices
  • Homework stations
  • Garage
  • Tool Sheds
  • Kitchens & Foyers

Some even fold away when you're done—great for tiny homes or RV living. It’s one of those smart upgrades that packs a punch without punchin’ your wallet. Whether you are looking to just order a ready made wall mounted desk and just drill into place OR how to build a wall mounted desk, this free guide will help you choose and execute your project.

And best of all? You don’t need fancy carpentry chops or a contractor license to build one. Just a steady hand, a drill, and the right gear.

Tools to Build a Wall Mounted Desk - Get ‘Em All at ContractorSupplies.com

Here’s your shopping list for this build. Everything’s available at ContractorSupplies.com, where the prices are lower than a snake’s belly in a wagon rut:

Tools Needed for DIY Building a Wall Mounted Desk:

M18 Compact 1/2" Hammer Drill/Driver by MILWAUKEE TOOL

When it comes to buildin’ your wall mounted desk, the M18 Compact 1/2" HammerDrill/Driver by MILWAUKEE TOOL is the perfect tool for the job. It’s lightweight, cordless, and packs enoughpower to drill into wood, drywall, or even concrete if you’re hittin’ tougher spots.

The ergonomic design makes long jobs easier on your hands, while the variable speed control ensures precision. This drill gives you the muscle you need to anchor desk brackets securely, without breakin’ a sweat. If you’re lookin’ to buy a wall mounted desk and want to DIY, this drill is a must-have.

  • Stud Finder

A must within a contractors toolbox is a stud finder. EVERY hardware store sells them and there is a wide variety of option and prices. Take your pick and get to finding the studs to find the beams inside the wall to drill into for anchoring.

Every great project starts with gettin’ things straight, and the Small Pocket Level 5" by JOHNSON LEVEL & TOOL is just the tool for that. Compact and easy to carry, it’s ideal for small spaces or quick checks while alignin’ desk brackets or shelves. Its durable construction means it won’t warp or wear down, no matter how many jobs it sees. Perfect for DIYers who like their tools reliable and to the point. Whether you’re buildin’ a desk or hangin’ a picture, this little guy keeps you level.

For larger projects like alignin’ the full length of a wall mounted desk, the Beam Level 24" by JOHNSON LEVEL & TOOL is your go-to. Its longer length ensures accuracy over extended distances, so your desk won’t end up lookin’ like a slanted shelf. The solid aluminum frame can take a beating while stayin’ precise, and the easy-to-read vials make it simple to get things just right. Whether you’re a pro or a weekend warrior, this level helps you build with confidence. If you’re ready to buy a wall mounted desk, make sure it’s level with this trusty tool.

For precision that’s a cut above, the Digital Level 10" by JOHNSON LEVEL & TOOL delivers. The digital readout takes the guesswork out of anglin’ brackets or makin’ adjustments. It’s compact enough for tight spaces but offers pro-level accuracy, ideal for custom desk builds. Sturdy and easy to calibrate, it’s a reliable choice whether you’re workin’ on wood, drywall, or metal. If you’re DIYing your wall mounted desk, this level helps you nail the perfect setup every time.

 

Measure twice, cut once—that’s the golden rule, and the 16 ft. Compact Wide Blade Magnetic Tape Measure by MILWAUKEE TOOL helps you stick to it. Its wide blade stays rigid for longer reaches, while the magnetic tip makes one-man jobs a breeze. The clear markings and durable build ensure accurate measurements every time. It’s the ideal companion for marking out desk dimensions or findin’ the perfect height for wall mounting. If you’re shoppin’ to buy a wall mounted desk, this tape measure is a key tool for gettin’ the job done right.

 

Once your desk is mounted, the Finishing Block Kit by Finish 1st makes it look its best. With a range of sandpaper grits, it’s perfect for smoothin’ edges, refinishing surfaces, or takin’ down rough spots. The block fits comfortably in your hand, makin’ it easy to work those tight corners or long edges. A smooth finish takes your DIY desk from functional to professional-grade. If you’re plannin’ to buy a wall mounted desk, don’t forget this essential tool for a polished look

For those wantin’ to take their wall mounted desk to the next level, the 6" Dual Action Orbital Sander by EMAX is the ultimate finishing tool. It’s powerful, fast, and designed to leave surfaces smooth without swirl marks. With adjustable speed and dual-action motion, it’s great for larger panels or hardwood finishes. Lightweight and easy to handle, this sander gives your desk that professional, high-quality feel. If you’re buildin’ or refinishing after you buy a wall mounted desk, this sander’s the cherry on top.

 

Materials Needed to Build a Floating Desk DIY:

Optional but helpful:

Step by Step Guide: How to Build a Wall Mounted Desk

Step 1: Pick Your Spot

Find a wall with enough room. You want:

  • At least 3–5 feet of horizontal wall space

  • Studs for support (use that trusty Stud Finder)

  • Easy access to power outlets

Mark your studs and take measurements for the width and depth of your desk. Standard depth is 18–24 inches.

Step 2: Cut & Prep Your Wood

Head to the garage or driveway and get that 3/4-inch plywood cut to size. Sand it smooth with your block sander or orbital and hit the corners with a quick round-over.

Then, stain or paint it with your preferred wood finish and let it dry good and proper. You’re lookin’ for classy and clean, not sticky and splattered.

Step 3: Mount the Brackets

Grab your L-brackets or folding shelf hardware. These bad boys do the heavy liftin’. Use your level to make sure everything’s flat and even.

  • Screw the brackets into wall studs for strength

  • Use wall anchors if you ain’t got a stud available (but studs are better)

Pro tip: Mount ‘em about 28–30 inches off the ground. That’s standard desk height.

Step 4: Attach the Desk Surface

Set your stained or painted plywood on the brackets, and drill pilot holes into the underside. Secure it with 1-inch wood screws through the bracket holes.

Double check:

  • No wobble?

  • Everything level?

  • You feel like a genius?

Then you’re on track, partner.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Once it's mounted:

  • Add cable clips for cord control

  • Mount an LED light strip for that slick modern glow

  • Consider a small cork board or pegboard above it

You’ve gone from bare wall to full workstation faster than a jackrabbit in July.

Ready Made & Ready to Install Wall Mounted Desks

Have no time to researching parts and tools needed for a wall mounted desk or how to build one? Buying a new ready made wall mounted desk is your best bet to save time and unnecessary headaches. If the idea of building one does not incite excitement in you, these options are great and just a few drills away from checking off your to do list.

A compact and sturdy solution for contractors, mechanics and other professionals that need writing and filing space in their workshops. With a bright yellow color scheme, this small workshop wall mounted desk addition can add value and efficiency to small spaces.

This silver workstation wall mounted desk is perfect for those in need of a filing and writing table that folds away to save space. Doubling as a filing cabinet, this foldable shop writing table is easy to mount and use.

Colored in discreet and professional black, this doable writing wall mounted desk is perfect for professionals in need of something sturdy and resistant to stains, a common hazard in our profession!

The ideal option for those looking for home and office options. This  floating foldable wall mounted desk saves space and makes any room look fancy with shelves for books, picture frames, figures and a fold away table desk that looks great in any wall.

Simple and elegant, this shop wall mounted desk table is perfect if there is no need for foldable tables. This small workshop desk is fixed and cannot be folded away.

Why Folks Choose Wall Mounted Desks

Besides savin’ space and lookin’ sharp, here’s what makes a wall mounted desk a fan favorite:

  • Easy to clean underneath (no legs = no dust bunnies)

  • Looks modern and minimal

  • Budget-friendly vs. store-bought desks

  • Great for both adults and kiddos

  • Totally customizable

Need a standing version? Just mount it higher! Want a fold-down model? Use fold-away hardware. Add drawers or shelves later if you’re feelin’ fancy.

And when you DIY it, you save money and earn braggin’ rights.

Inspiration for Foldable Wall Mounted Desks & More

Need more design ideas? Check these out:

Even the pros agree—wall desks are one of the smartest DIYs around.

Final Thoughts from Tom the Builder

So there ya have it. From raw plywood to finished workspace, you just built yourself a wall mounted desk that’s strong as a steer and slicker than an oiled banister. All it took was a few solid tools, some reliable brackets, and a pinch of elbow grease.

Best part? Every tool and material you used can be found right at ContractorSupplies.com. We don’t mess around with flimsy gear. We stock contractor-grade goods so you can build better—whether you’re fixin’ up your home or hustlin’ job sites.

Now go sit back, fire up that laptop or sketch pad, and admire your handiwork. You earned it.

Happy buildin’,

Tom the Builder

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