How to resurface desk?

[MsMazz]

I have a left corner IKEA desk which I want to make into a right corner desk. The right corner desktop is not available to buy so I thought I’d adjust the top I have. 

There are many screw holes on the current underside which will be on the new top side. I’m comfortable with sanding the edges of the holes flat and filling the holes but I don’t know what to cover the whole desktop with to make it smooth. I did think of a sheet of plywood which I can cut to shape and size but I don’t think it would be smooth enough as a desk surface. Other than smoothness, my other consideration is it the final desktop can’t be too think.

Just had a thought, could a Kaboodle bench top do the job? I think it would be much easier. 

Pictures show the underside of the desk with all the screw holes. 

 

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @MsMazz,

Thank you for your post, it sounds like an interesting project.

My thought is to keep things as simple as possible and simply apply some vinyl sheeting over the existing surface. This would mean it is not made considerably thicker and it can be cut quite easily with a utility knife.

You could use Selleys 350g Kwik Grip Spray Contact Adhesive to stick it in place.

Allow me to tag @Nailbag, @Dave-1 and @Noyade to see if they have any ideas.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Nailbag]

Hi @MsMazz 

I agree with @JacobZ by keeping to a simple plan. His is an excellent cost effective solution that will look great and a reasonably easy project. 

You will need a straight edge like a spirit level as a cutting guide. If you don’t have one, you maybe able to borrow one unless you think owning one will be handy to have. 

Use extra care when making the cuts. You don’t need to do it in one go. Making a series of cuts with less pressure is safer than 1-2 with a lot. And go slow at the end of the cuts which will give you better control. 

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @MsMazz 

Modifications of something always catches my interest!

With Ikea furniture there is an element of what is inside it structually. As in where to drill, screw for maximum holding so thats something to conisder.

As to the smooth top, I like the idea of masonite 1200 x 915mm 3.2mm Masonite Handypanel Its smooth, light-ish. Tho non structual as in it can be bent on its own but once glued it will really stiffen the desktop area.

Dave