Want to build your own DIY sit stand desk?

Updated 11th June 2023

When choosing a sit-stand desk frame, it's important to consider factors such as the size of your top (both width and depth), your height, the lifting capacity (based on the weight of your tabletop and the items you'll place on it), and the type of lifting mechanism you prefer. For most uses, a 2-segmented desk frame should suffice unless you need more height adjustability​.

Some of the main factors you’ll need to consider for your project:

• Am I creating a single, dual leg or triple leg (L-shaped) sit stand desk?
  If your top size is going to be less wide than 1200mm you should consider a single leg frame. Anything over 1200mm wide will require a dual leg frame for stability. Corner desks will require a special 3 leg frame to support the extra table top.
• How tall am I? Do I really need the tallest adjustable height standing desk available?
  Consider the height adjustment requirements for all users of your computer desk. You shouldn’t need it to go any higher than the relaxed elbow height while standing of the tallest user. Don’t forget to account for your table top thickness.
• Lifting capacity
  You will need to factor in how heavy your table top is, and if you’ll be adding heavy items (eg. multiple monitor arms, large printers, machinery, etc). For longevity purposes, it’s best not to load your frame right up to it’s lifting capacity.
• Lifting mechanism
  Electric linear actuator technology has come a long way, with most electric standing desks are now at price parity with manual (wind-up) desks. Consider the ease of use and heaviness of your tabletop when selecting the type of lifting mechanism you will use.
• Do I need a 2 segmented desk leg or a 3 segmented desk leg?
  More leg segments = more height adjustability range, so this will depend on the height range you require. Unless you need to go particularly low (eg. if you’re building a study desk for the kids) or particularly high (for a very tall person) then a 2 segmented desk frame should be more than enough to achieve the correct standing position for most body types.

Checklist of sit stand desk must-haves

Standing desks are now ubiquitous in the office, so how do you choose from the scores of models available? What sets a height adjustable desk apart from its peers? We’ve compiled a handy checklist of things we believe are important when choosing your frame.

How to assemble your DIY Sit Stand Desk

For some it may seem intimidating, but in most cases a DIY desk project can be managed by just about anyone with experience assembling flat pack office furniture. For those who’d prefer not to attempt it, we have partnered with the Australia wide furniture assembler Install 2 U who can assist you with assembling your custom height adjustable standing desk.

Tools required:

• Screwdriver/power drill to drill screw holes
• Allen/hex keys to assemble frame are provided with the kit

To give you a better idea of what’s involved when assembling a DIY sit stand desk, here is an example assembly video:

Inspiration for your DIY Adjustable Desk

We've included a breakdown of some of the more common electric height adjustable frames available below, highlighting some of the key differences between each.

Conset 501-33 Frame

Conset 501-43 Frame

Conset 501-43 Corner L-Shaped Desk

Conset 501-19 Pedestal Single Column

We hope the information above will assisting you in choosing the best frame for your DIY standing desk project. Happy building!

Ausergo ships sit stand desks Australia wide, so please don’t hesitate to contact us on 1300 500 768 or via our contact form.

Buy your desk frame online today for delivery within 5 business days!