Step by step woodyworking

Turning a closet into a workspace Part I

In this new project, I will be renovating a standard 2 x 4 closet into a workspace.  The space will have a laminated countertop, which will accommodate the computer and monitor, and shelving above for storage.  I will also be adding new bifold doors so that the area can be closed off.

The first step is to make the laminated top.  Ive already made up my substrate, which is two pieces of 3/4" particle board glued together, and all surfaces sanded. This top will have a finished front edge, which is what I apply first.  I cut the edge strip oversized, apply adhesive to both the strip and the substrate, let dry, and apply.  The excess is trimmed off with a router.  Here is a picture of the front edge just after trimming...


Next, Im ready to apply the top laminate.  Again, Ive coated both surfaces with adhesive and will let them dry completely before putting them together. Once the adhesive is dry and they are put together, it will be nearly impossible to separate them. The adhesive is milky when you first put it on, and will dry to a semi-clear color.  Here is a picture with wet adhesive...


A picture of the two pieces joined and trimmed...


For all countertop edges, I use the power sander with 220 grit paper to smooth.  This way there will be no sharp edges.  Heres a close up of the front edge...


And the overall top...


The doors and ledger strips are being painted, and the shelving is 3/4" white melamine.  Install day is coming, and so will more pictures!