Best Way to Shorten (cut/saw) a Desk?

David
by David

I have 2 old, executive style desks (like the desk pictured in the attachment) that I would like to shorten the depth of. They each have to pedestals that I plant to reconfigure, and add a wall length top to create to separate seating areas. What would be the best tool/saw to cut/saw these down to the size I would like? I know if I use a circular saw I should use a high tooth count blade, but is this the best way to go? Or is there a better way to accomplish this task? TIA!

  4 answers
  • GrandmasHouseDIY GrandmasHouseDIY on Oct 15, 2018

    Hi David, yep a circular saw (also called a skill saw) would probably give you the cleanest and straightest cut. I would use a fine wood blade (lots of teeth) and tape over where you plan on cutting to help cut down on breakage as much as possible. For a perfect straight cut you can clamp down a 2x4 (or any straight edge) on the desk top for the saw to follow while you run it. Hope that helps, good luck!

  • Ken Erickson Ken Erickson on Oct 15, 2018

    There was no picture attached. Most desks are at a comfortable height for sitting and working, but you may have a reason for making them lower. Your best bet is to disassemble the desks as much as possible before trying to do anything. Adding blue painter's tape to the cut line will help prevent splinters and chips at the cut with a circular saw. The cut area can also be covered with trim to hide any boo-boos.

    • David David on Oct 15, 2018

      I'm not shortening the height, but the depth...and thank you...and yes, I will disassemble them first...

  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on Oct 17, 2018

    Yes I would think a circle saw put desk up side down you know what look great is if you cut desk in half long ways then attach to the wall it looks so nice then put a chair

  • Paula Anderson Paula Anderson on Sep 05, 2023

    Hi David! Would you please share the outcome? I am looking to do the same with my desk. Thank you