Purchasing a computer desk and discovering it is too small to accommodate a computer keyboard is disappointing. While some desks come with a pull-out keyboard shelf, other models do not. Building a pull-out shelf, whether for a small desk or a large desk, is easy. Adding such a shelf will provide you with more work space.
Video of the Day
Things You'll Need
Pencil
Ruler
Saw
Sandpaper
Paint Or Stain
2 Large Keyboard Shelf Sliding Tracks (At Least 3 Inches High)
1/2-Inch-Thick Plywood
Screwdriver And Screws
Measuring Tape Or Rule
Preparation
Step 1
Cut a 7-inch by 22-inch plywood piece.
Video of the Day
Step 2
Sand the edges and corners until smooth.
Step 3
Paint or stain the keyboard shelf and allow it to dry overnight.
Installation
Step 1
Separate the tracks from the base tracks. Set aside the large 3-inch parts.
Step 2
Line up the shelf beneath the desk top. Mark where the bases of the sliding tracks should be on either side of the shelf. Install both sliding bases.
Step 3
Secure the other sliding track components to the 7-inch ends of shelf.
Step 4
Reattach the sliding tracks by sliding the shelf tracks into the base tracks installed beneath. This may need to be done at an angle. Once the tracks click together, pull the shelf in and out a few times. Place the keyboard on the shelf.
Tip
Stain or paint the shelf to match the unit where it will be installed or paint and decorate it with various colors.
The tracks should be at least 3 inches tall so the keyboard can fit on the pullout shelf without touching the table above.