Removing a tambour roll top desk requires some caution and planning as lifting and maneuvering a large piece of furniture can be hazardous. Before starting, it is important to carefully measure the space and obtain any necessary tools and assistance.
The first step varies depending on whether the desk is resting on a flat surface or has been partially disassembled:
If the desk is still together, begins by removing any drawers and the roll top, setting them aside in a safe place. Remove any support legs, braces or sliding trays. For safety reasons, if the desk is too large to be maneuvered by one person, secure assistance and use furniture sliders to make moving the piece easier.
If the piece has been partially disassembled, start by gathering the components and hardware that have been set aside. Gather the tools needed for reassembly, such as a screw gun, Philips screwdriver and rubber mallet.
Take caution when moving and positioning each piece as sharp edges could result in injury. Once all the pieces have been removed, dispose of the desk or transfer and store the parts in a safe location.
Can you spray paint a roll top desk?
Yes, you can spray paint a roll top desk. However, it’s important to take the proper precautions and steps before doing so. To ensure a successful and satisfying paint job, you’ll want to remove any hardware or attachments.
If the top is covered in lacquer, it’s best to use a liquid sander deglosser to help the paint adhere properly. Then, you’ll want to lightly sand the entire piece, clean it with a damp cloth to remove any dust and dirt, and prime it with a oil-based primer.
Once the primer is dry, you can spray paint the desk with a furniture paint in a color of your choice. After that is dry, apply a clear topcoat for added protection, and let it dry for 24 hours. Finally, you can reattach any hardware and enjoy your newly revived roll top desk.
What is mean by roll top?
A roll top refers to a type of desk or other furniture piece that has a locking lid made of interlocking slats. The design looks like a roller blind, which is why it’s often referred to as a “roll top.
” The revolutionary design was invented during the 19th century and is still well-loved for its concealed storage, clever construction, and timeless appeal.
The interlocking top section can be rolled down, revealing a flat working surface for activities; when it’s time to close up shop, the user can roll up the top again, concealing its contents from sight.
This design is also incredibly helpful for conserving space in small rooms — when the lid is rolled up and space is hidden away.
Roll top desks are often prized for their unique style and may be found constructed in materials such as wood, laminate, glass, or metal. The slotted vertical grille design makes this type of desk a particularly chic option for many people, offering a stylish and functional addition to the home or office.
What is a roll top desk called?
A roll top desk is a type of desk characterized by a slatted wooden cover that rolls down over a writing surface. It was created in the United States in the late 19th century as an efficient alternative to a bulky, more traditional desk.
The roll top typically consists of one or more drawers and compartments in which papers and other objects may be stored, as well as a central area where a person can write or work. The roll top cover is usually made of solid wood, giving it a distinctive look and feel; however, some modern versions are covered with metal or plastic.
The desk has become an iconic piece of furniture in many households, offices, and libraries across the world, and often conjures images of scholars of the past. The timeless design has been used in many forms of media, making it recognizable to many people.
How is the roll top desk?
The roll top desk is a great piece of furniture because it has a unique, stylish design that integrates beautifully into home or office spaces. It has a solid frame and a top desk cover that can be rolled up and secured when not in use, creating a neat and tidy workspace.
This versatility also makes it ideal for smaller spaces, as it can free up valuable storage room while still providing a full work surface.
They also come with a wide range of drawers, shelves, and other organizational features, allowing users to customize the desk to their specific needs. The wood finishes are often beautiful and the compartments offer a smooth, silent experience.
Additionally, the roll top desk is often available at affordable prices, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Are roll top desks popular?
Yes, roll top desks are very popular. They provide a classic and stylish look to any room, as well as providing plenty of storage and workspace. They can also be compact in size, making them ideal for fitting into smaller rooms or apartments.
Roll top desks, in particular, are highly sought after due to their unique design which includes a rolling tambour door which opens up to reveal the interior of the desk. This makes it easy to hide items away when not in use, while still having everything within easy reach.
They can be found in both traditional and more contemporary styles, making them a good choice for any home.
When did they stop making roll top desks?
The exact year when roll top desks stopped being manufactured is not precisely known, but their popularity began declining in the early 20th century. By the middle of the century, the traditional wooden roll top desk had become obsolete, replaced by industrial designs and new types of furniture.
As the production of roll top desks in the US declined, so did the motivation to manufacture them.
In recent years, some furniture manufacturers have made efforts to revive the classic roll top desk, as there is a certain nostalgia among consumers for its unique style. However, compared to their heyday during the 19th century, roll top desks remain a niche type of furniture and are difficult to find in stores.
What is another name for a roll-top desk?
A roll-top desk is also commonly referred to as a tambour desk. This type of desk has a flexible wooden slatted cover that can be rolled down to cover the working surface. The slats fit into one another like a roller blind or Venetian blind, and can be rolled up to expose the desk underneath.
Tambour desks were particularly popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and many beautiful antique pieces can still be found today.
What are slots on the side of a rolltop desk for?
Slots located on the side of a rolltop desk are used to store smaller items such as pens, pencils and other office stationary. Typically, each side of the desk will contain a number of small slots and compartments, allowing the user to store their items in a neat and organized way.
The slots can also provide easy access to the user’s items, allowing them to quickly grab whatever they need without rummaging through drawers and cupboards. For example, if a user needs writing materials or other small items, all they need to do is simply slide open the rolltop and grab their items from the side slots.
This can be especially helpful when space is limited and there isn’t room for additional cabinets and drawers.
How do you put a desk drawer back in?
Putting a desk drawer back in is a relatively simple process that requires minimal tools or materials. Depending on the kind of drawer you have, the instructions may vary slightly. Generally, the steps for re-installing a desk drawer are as follows:
1. Start by gathering the necessary items – drawer, slides, screws, and a screwdriver.
2. Position the drawer into the space reserved for it in the desk. Adjust the drawer until it feels snug and the gaps at the sides are even. You may wish to measure the gap to ensure the drawer fits properly.
3. Attach the slides to the inside walls of the desk. One will be positioned at the top, the other at the bottom. Make certain the slides fit securely against the walls.
4. Align the slides with the drawer. Slide the drawer into the slots of the slide. Secure the drawer in place by attaching the screws to the slides.
5. Push the drawer in and out several times to ensure a proper fit. If it moves smoothly and without hesitation, then your drawer is properly installed.
Although it may take a few attempts to properly re-install a desk drawer, the steps necessary are not complicated. With the right materials and a bit of patience, a drawer can be securely returned to its rightful place in no time.
How do you remove drawers with full extension slides?
Removing drawers with full extension slides can seem a bit tricky, but it’s actually easy once you understand how the slides work. To remove the drawer from the slides, begin by pulling the drawer out until stops at its full extension.
Then use a flathead screwdriver to gently push the drawer’s release tab. This will unlock the drawer from the slides and allow you to pull it out the rest of the way. After the drawer is free from the slides, simply lift it up and out.
Re-installing the drawer is just the reverse. Gently slide the drawer back into the slides until the release tabs engage and the drawer slides in and out on its own.