Assemble a flatpack desk from box to finished, wobble-free desk in one session using the supplied fittings.
FD-01Clear a space and check the partsClear a flat area with room to lay the desktop flat and move around it. Lay down the flattened box or an old blanket to protect flooring. Unpack every part and lay it out, then tick each item off against the parts list in the instructions, including small bags of screws, dowels and cam locks.
FD-02Gather your toolsMost flatpack desks come with a small hex (Allen) key, but it's often flimsy. Use your own hex key set if you have one, plus a cross-head screwdriver for any fixings that need more torque. A rubber mallet is handy for tapping dowels and cam locks fully home without marking the wood.
FD-03Build the two leg framesAttach the leg brackets or end panels to the horizontal stretcher bar or side rail for each end, following the diagram. Fit every screw loosely by hand first rather than tightening straight away. This lets you square the frame up before it locks solid.
FD-04Attach the legs to the desktopTurn the desktop upside down on the protected floor. Line up the bracket holes on each leg frame with the marked positions underneath the desktop. Drive the supplied screws in by hand first, then tighten fully with the screwdriver or hex key once both leg frames are in place and square.
FD-05Fit the central stretcher railIf your desk has a separate stretcher bar connecting the two leg frames, fit it now for extra rigidity. Screw it fully home at both ends, checking the whole underframe sits square before you tighten the last screw.
FD-06Fit the cable grommet and cable trayMany desks have a round cut-out for a cable grommet and a small tray or basket that clips underneath. Push the grommet into its hole from above, then screw or clip the cable tray in place while the desk is still upside down, as it's much easier to reach now.
FD-07Stand the desk up and check it's solidWith help if the desktop is large or heavy, turn the desk the right way up onto its legs. Check all four feet sit evenly on the floor and the desk doesn't rock. Go round every joint and fully tighten each screw and cam lock, since transport and turning it over can loosen them slightly.
4 each · Self-adhesive felt floor pads (optional, protects flooring)
FD-08Adjust the feet and tidy upIf the desk has adjustable levelling feet, twist them until the wobble stops on your floor. Fold and recycle the cardboard and packaging, and keep any spare screws or dowels in a labelled bag in a drawer in case a fixing ever needs replacing.
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