The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk: A Personal Experience

The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk: A Personal Experience

As someone who loves woodworking, I was thrilled to hear about “The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk” plans. I decided to give it a try and was impressed with the results. In this article, I’ll share my experience building the desk, along with some tips and ideas for others who may be interested in taking on this project.

What is “The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk”?

“The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk” is a woodworking plan created by Norm Abram, a master carpenter and host of the popular television show “The New Yankee Workshop.” The plan provides detailed instructions for building a beautiful roll top desk, complete with drawers, compartments, and a sliding cover to keep everything organized.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved in building “The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk”:

1. Gather Materials: You’ll need a variety of wood types, including oak, maple, and birch, as well as hardware such as hinges, knobs, and drawer slides.
2. Cut Wood: The plan provides detailed instructions for cutting each piece of wood to the correct size and shape.
3. Assemble Components: You’ll start by building the desk’s frame, then move on to the drawers, compartments, and other features.
4. Finish: Once all of the components are assembled, you can sand, stain, and seal the desk to give it a beautiful, polished look.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind when building “The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk”:

1. Measure twice, cut once: Take the time to carefully measure and mark each piece of wood before cutting.
2. Invest in good hardware: High-quality hinges, knobs, and drawer slides will make a big difference in the desk’s overall quality.
3. Work in a clean, organized space: Keep your workspace tidy and clutter-free to avoid mistakes and accidents.
4. Take breaks: Woodworking can be tiring and repetitive, so take frequent breaks to stretch and rest your hands and back.
5. Customize the design: Add your own personal touches, such as carving or inlay work, to make the desk truly unique.
6. Use a variety of finishes: Consider using different stain colors or types of sealant to create a unique look.
7. Follow the plan closely: While there’s room for customization, it’s important to follow the plan’s instructions carefully to ensure a successful outcome.
8. Get help when needed: Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance from a more experienced woodworker if you’re stuck on a particular step.
9. Take pride in your work: Building a piece of furniture from scratch is a rewarding experience, so be sure to take time to admire your finished product.
10. Share your work: Consider sharing photos of your finished desk with other woodworking enthusiasts online or in person.

Pros and Cons

Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to take on “The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk” project:

Pros:

• The desk is practical and functional, with plenty of storage space.
• The plan provides detailed instructions, making it accessible to woodworkers of all skill levels.
• The finished product is a beautiful, high-quality piece of furniture that will last for years to come.

Cons:

• The project requires a significant investment of time, money, and effort.
• Woodworking can be a dangerous activity, so it’s important to take proper safety precautions.
• Some steps in the plan may be challenging for less experienced woodworkers.

Personal Review and Suggestions

Overall, I had a great experience building “The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk.” The plan was easy to follow, and the finished desk looks fantastic in my home office. One suggestion I have is to take your time with each step, and don’t rush the process. It’s important to pay attention to the details and ensure that each piece fits together perfectly. If you’re considering taking on this project, I would highly recommend it!

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to build “The New Yankee Workshop Roll Top Desk?”

A: The time it takes to complete the project will depend on your skill level, available time, and other factors. For most woodworkers, it will likely take several weeks to complete.

Q: Can I modify the plan to fit my specific needs?

A: Yes, the plan allows for some customization, such as adjusting the size or adding additional compartments.

Q: Do I need a lot of woodworking experience to build this desk?

A: While some woodworking experience is helpful, the plan includes detailed instructions that make it accessible to woodworkers of all skill levels.