Making a custom computer desk with Rockler I-Semble System is a simple do-it-yourself project:
Rockler recently sent me some I-Semble Shelf Blocks to review. These brackets sat on my workbench for a few days before the creative juices hit me and I realized that the solution to a problem of mine was right in front of me. I look at these brackets as problem solvers for the do-it-yourselfer.
Did I say problem solver?
Yup, you can now build your own furniture without complicated wood joinery skills or a shop full of expensive tools. Read on!
My problem was that my daughter wanted a computer desk in her room and originally wanted this desk to situate between two twin beds. The size between the beds meant that I was going to have to have something custom made or make it myself.
Making it myself meant spending a ton of time I just didn’t have building this desk . This was a project I had been putting off and it was the last thing I wanted to get involved in.
The Rockler I-Semble brackets can solve anyone furniture problems and can be used to make bookcases, a desk, entertainment centers, kids furniture, fun dorm furniture, and more.
Making a custom computer desk with Rockler I-Semble System is a simple Do-It-Yourself project, all you need is a screw driver and the I-Semble Shelf Blocks. All of the wood I used was left over from a previous project.
Let’s talk about the wood. You can use anything from Cherry to plywood to a hollow core door blank. It’s upews needed come with the shelf blocks, you need to supply the wood.
Rockler I-Semble System Video Review:
The I-Semble Shelf Blocks are a powder coated steel construction and “L” bracketed shape which can support shelving spans of up to 36″ of standard 3/4″ lumber.
Technical Details:
- Simply supply your own wood to make quick and easy bookcases, office desks, entertainment centers, kids furniture, and unique dorm furniture
- Assembly requires minimal tools and do-it-yourself skills
- Includes two Shelf Blocks that each feature four through holes in the top and bottom for installation
- Brackets stand 13” high, giving you a generous space between shelves
- Hardware is powder coated black for a sleek look that goes with any decor
- Includes 16 black truss head wood screws – 5/8” long
- Use a maximum span of 36” between Shelf Blocks for proper support
- Wall anchors recommended, especially for stacked units (anchors sold separately)
- 18 Gauge Steel
- Measures 13” H x 10” D
- Pair weighs 6 lbs.
Making A Custom Computer Desk With Rockler I-Semble System:
I decided to use some left over Cherry wood I had from a project I did 15 years ago.
I sanded the edges and then eased all of the sharp edges with a hand plane. I cut my desktop to the size I wanted and then cut 4 smaller pieces for the shelves and leg bottoms. I cut the four shelves the same size as the I-Semble brackets.
Fitting and sizing the wood was the hardest part. The rest was assembly which required installing 8 screws per bracket – that simple!
Once all the parts were sized and sanded I added a coat of Cherry stain to clean the wood up a bit – after all it has been sitting in my shop wood pile for 15 years.
The I-Semble brackets solved my current desk problem and in a few years when my daughter is off to college I can easily take the desk apart and make her a bookcase, storage unit or something else. These brackets are very versatile.
Where To Buy And How Much?
The I-Semble Shelf Blocks (47512) come in pairs and retail for $19.99. They are available at Rockler Woodworking and Hardware stores nationwide, Rockler independent resellers, Rockler.com
This review contains my opinion of a product. I take pride in providing my readers with honest and objective information as well as a practical approach to using a product. I never accept payment in exchange for a positive review. Many of the tools and products are provided to for free by a manufacturer for review.