I am curious if anyone here has constructed their own fly tying desk? If you have could you post pics and suggestions about what you would have done different or things you included that I should consider in building mine.
I didnt build one, but I moved my operation into a new spot, hermit-crab style.
My “desk” is actually a converted antique vanity table (where ladies go for the application of makeup and other arcane rituals of beautification). Its even still got the “tri-fold” style mirrors on it!
I emptied all the drawers (6) and filled them with all manner of things, with common themes (I have an everything drawer, a chenille & yarn drawer, fur, marabou, egg materials, and non-hackle feathers drawers). I covered the split top (two small surfaces with an opening in the middle) with a cut-to-fit piece of tabletop and cut a slot in the right position for my clap-style vise.
There’s a gap in the front between the tabletop and the center mirror, and I positioned my wastebasket beneath this so I can just brush my scraps right into it.
This setup gives me plenty of surface area for a small drawer organizer (for hooks, beads, thread, etc.) as well as room to really spread out materials for 2-3 different patterns all at once.
What would I have done differently? Not a thing. The vanity belonged to my mom’s grandparents, so it makes me feel good that it’s still seeing some use without being damaged in any way (thanks to the tabletop).
What would I like to change? I’d have liked it if the drawers were deep enough to store hackle. As it is, I have them stacked on the little middle shelf (that the wastebasket sits on), but I’m going to have to get a sturdy plastic box for them this week, and I’ve got a puppy on the way Friday, and I’m sure a lab puppy would find a $40 saddle a delicious treat.
there’s a right nice one built w/ a cutting board on the archives here somewhere.
simple cheap and ergonomic. I don’t have the patience to search for it. plus my search skills and this search engine are virtually incompatible.
There’s a difference between a station and a desk.
yeah. you can tie anywhere w/ a station.
which one are you talking about??
tying bench/ station
http://www.oasisbenches.com/oasis_benches.htm
fly tying desk
I built my desk out of cherry. I got a few ideas on line, and changed a few things. I needed something that looked nice since it’s in my livingroom. You might want to look into a roll top desk in you want a desk and it has to look nice.
TB
Here is the one I’m using.
I found it on Craig’s List and bought it. The lady I bought it from was appalled that I was going to use it for tying flies. So I enjoyed buying it even more.
I use an old drafting table 4ft x 5ft I think,with an Oasis bench so I can sneak out of the basement when no body’s home. The large area is good for storage boxes etc. I have added a couple of drawers to help with the never ending clutter. I would change nothing about my set up.
sheldon
Funny how people will want to sell something, then not let go of it. Why should she care? It isn’t her’s anymore. 
Lotech, I love that desk! And it would be perfect for me, with the box of tissues handy on the left hand side to help dry my tears after seeing what I’ve tied…
GAWD!! You guys are so way organized!! I just turned around and looked at my desk … and laughed!! If I look really hard, and try to remember, I can ALMOST tell you the color of the desk top!!!:rolleyes::shock:
I have a wooden tv tray that I tie on. Not much room with that thing. I also have my stuff in boxes for now. Eventually I will get a desk with some real shelving…but this is all I can do for now. I have been tying for a year and a half.
While I didn’t actually make my desk outright, I bought the top roll top desk portion of the desk at the local Goodwill and the bottom desk off of Craig’s list. I refinished the desk and raised the work surface height to 34 inches which is has eliminated all of the neck and upper back pain I would experience when tying for any length of time. I did some research on the heights of the desks the old jewelers used to use since I figured it was somewhat similar to tying. They recommended 33 - 34 inches high with an appropriately height chair. I also added a pull-out work surface which you can see is extended in the second photo. I use this surface for stuff like rod building etc. The entire project cost me under $150 and has turned out to be a fantastic fly tying desk. All that is to say that unless you are absolutely determined to build a desk from scratch, the take the time to look around and I think you’ll find some great deals that will serve you well. Just a thought…
Desk with pull-out work surface extended
Jim Smith
I am…
I built one like this from cutting boards found @ walmart:
http://fishing.about.com/cs/beginnersinstruct/a/bl031209a.htm
Works Great!
Here is a desk that I built out of walnut. I really enjoy it. some things i would definitely do the same are 1. roll top (this is so convenient to not have to clean up after every session 2. removable spacers (this gives you options) things i would do differently are 1. more surface area when spacers are in 2. a different style of roll top. but over all if you build it your self it will be satisfying to tie on. good luck and post pictures if you build
A roll-top is definitely the way to go. Close it and the unsightly mess is gone. Keeps pets out, too.
Here is the one that I built.
TwoWeight
Gentlemen, ah am impressed!
I tie on a old kitchen table. Lots of room but pretty plain jane.
Coughlin
Jim…man that’s nice!
Jeremy.