How to Build a Hutch for a College Desk

Published: Mar 17, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Step 1

Measure the width of the desk. Add 3 inches to each side of the measurement. The frame will go outside of the desk. For the sake of this example, assume the desk is 30 inches wide; therefore, you need 36 inches of width.

Step 2

Measure and cut eight 2-by-4 planks the width calculated in Step 1 (36 inches). Measure and cut eight 2-by-4 planks 4 inches long.

Step 3

Assemble four shelving frames. Each frame needs two 36-inch planks for the width and two 4-inch planks for the length. Position the shorter planks between the longer planks 3 inches from each end. Drill a hole into the 36-inch planks to meet the 4-inch plank. Insert screws and tighten. Note: One frame will not be used as a shelf, but as a base under the desk.

Advertisement

Step 4

Measure and cut four 2-by-4 planks to a length of 6 feet. Measure and mark the first shelf height. This shelf will actually sit on the desk, so the best way to measure this is to sit one of the frames on the desk and line the planks up against it and mark them. Drill two holes thought the planks where they will meet the frame--one in front and one in back.

Step 5

Measure and mark the height of the next two shelves and the base frame. You can customize your hutch based on computer monitor size or other desktop needs. Drill holes through the planks where they meet the shelves.

Step 6

Measure three plywood strips to sit on the shelves: 36 inches by 8 inches. Cut the plywood and sit on each of the frames. Nail into place along the frame.

Step 7

Screw all shelves into your side post planks. Secure them tightly.

Step 8

Sit the hutch over your desk.

Tips

Paint or stain your hutch for a more finished look.

Customize your hutch with tack board or white board glued on with contact cement.

Kimberlee Leonard

With more than 15 years of professional writing experience, Kimberlee finds it fun to take technical mumbo-jumbo and make it fun! Her first career was in financial services and insurance.

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.