It's no secret that doors make great desktops. They're inexpensive, roomy, and readily available in a variety of sizes. But what about the rest of the desk? Sawhorses are great, but they don't offer the storage low-rise bookcases do. Thirty-inch square bookcases are the ideal height for a desk and are the same width as a standard-size door. 

Prime and paint the bookcases, and top with a door finished in the same color. If space is tight (and you can't find a ready-made door in your desired length), custom-order the size you need at a home-supply store. To give the desk a finished, cohesive look, add a few details: Line the back of the shelves with sheets of marbled paper (secured with double-sided tape), and hot-glue a ribbon around the edge of the desktop and leather cord across the shelves.

This desk costs less than $200 and is big enough for a computer and the inevitable mess that materializes when you're working on a project. A large work surface, like this one made from a hollow-core door on two sawhorses, can get cluttered but still feel comfortable.

A desk satisfies countless needs (schedule keeping, paying bills), but this workstation doesn't have to occupy a tremendous amount of space, much less an entire room. Our inventive DIY desk ideas can deliver a space that's practical as well as pleasing.

It can be a challenge to create a desk that's roomy enough for one person, let alone two. This symmetrical setup is the perfect solution, unifying a pair of workstations in an open configuration that fits snugly against almost any stretch of wall without overwhelming the rest of the room.

Minimal construction transforms a traditional piece of bedroom furniture into an unexpected multi-tasker -- a bulletin board, filing cabinet, and mini office, all in one.

What may appear at first glance to be an unconventional armoire is actually a set of bookcases attached along one side. Opened, it's a compact, self-contained, innovative crafts or office nook.

A secretaire takes center stage, providing sufficient work and storage space for routine filing and paperwork without feeling too much like an office.

This workstation creates two zones without breaking up the room. Light (and enlightenment) flow freely; walls are left open for books.

A hutch or sideboard can be quickly retrofitted to accommodate all your office essentials.

This clever desk is camouflaged when not in use. It is quickly hidden by a fabric-covered panel and flanked by decorative bookcases.

So many desks look as if they're on steroids -- hulking, ill-proportioned, and too big for their own good. A simple table, meanwhile, has more than enough room for a computer and crafting space.

Stocked with everything a student needs, this hideaway is an inviting place to pore over homework.