How to assemble a writing desk

• Allen key (supplied)
• Cross-head screwdriver
• Rubber mallet

Before you start, lay everything out on a soft surface (the flattened box works) and check it against the parts list in your manual.

• Desktop
• Two side panels or leg frames
• Back (modesty) panel
• Drawer box and runners, if included
• Cam locks, dowels and screws

1. 1

   Step 1: Lay the desktop face down on its box or a rug so the top does not get scratched while you work.

2. 2

   Step 2: Tap the dowels into the underside of the top and screw the cam bolts into the side panels, following the manual's hole map.

3. 3

   Step 3: Lower the first side panel onto its dowels, turn the cams to lock it, then do the second side.

4. 4

   Step 4: Slide or screw the back panel between the sides; it holds the desk square, so check both sides stay upright as you fix it.

5. 5

   Step 5: Screw the drawer runners to the inside of the sides at the marked holes, with the wheel ends at the front.

6. 6

   Step 6: Build the drawer box, fit its runners, and slide it in to check it glides and closes flush.

7. 7

   Step 7: Turn the desk over with care, standing it on its feet rather than rocking it onto one leg, and fit any floor glides.

• Fitting the runners the wrong way round, so the drawer will not go in.
• Leaving the back panel loose, which makes the desk sway when you write.
• Turning cam locks before the panel is fully seated on its dowels.