Fancy X Desk

Start by building two "I"-shaped leg towers — a center post capped top and bottom with a wider board, so the tower reads as a stacked column. Build both towers identically.

Add the internal bracing to each leg tower, predrilling with a countersink bit so screw heads sit flush.

Attach the top and bottom caps to each leg tower, mitering the ends where called for.

Glue and screw the remaining 2x4 layers onto each tower — it's the repetition of this stacked pattern that gives the legs their look. Confirm both towers still match each other as you build them up.

Connect the two leg towers with the long cross stretchers, checking for square as you go.

Miter the X brace pieces at 45° and install them between the two towers, crossing evenly at the center.

If using pocket holes, build the tabletop as its own assembly first, then attach it to the base. A sheet of plywood works as a smoother writing-surface substitute for the 2x12 (or 2x6) boards if preferred.

Sand every surface and finish.