Scrap Lap Desk

Nail the two tray side pieces to the tray bottom, keeping outside edges flush, then nail the front and back pieces to the sides and bottom. Glue every joint — on thin, short parts the glue does most of the holding and the nails just clamp it. Check the box is square.

Screw the four 2x2 legs to the underside corners of the tray box with 2" screws — these lift the desk and create the side cubby space. Then screw the 2x2 top trim to the top of the tray, and drive through the legs into the end edges of the trim to lock it all together.

Assemble the two side storage cubbies at the ends of the desk. Nail and glue the 1/4" plywood to the backs first, then the fronts. These closed-in ends give the desk small open compartments and stiffen the whole assembly.

Nail the long and short dividers into the storage tray through the tray sides. Position them to suit what you'll store — the layout is yours to set. Dividers keep pens and small items from sliding into one corner every time you tilt the desk.

Nail the fixed 1x2 top-back piece across the back of the desk, outside edges flush. Then attach the 1x12 hinged top to that back strip with a pair of standard hinges, so the lid pivots open toward you and the tray stays put.

Sand the lid smooth — it's a writing surface — and finish. It's small enough that a coat of finish is quick.