DIY: How to Make a Lectern

Are you planning to give a speech or presentation and want to have a professional-looking lectern? Making a lectern can be an easy and affordable DIY project. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making a lectern using simple materials and tools. Even if you don’t have any woodworking experience, you can still create an impressive lectern that will make your audience sit up and take notice.

Firstly, a lectern is an essential accessory for public speaking. It not only acts as a physical support for notes or presentation materials but also gives the speaker a sense of confidence and authority. While there are many different styles of lecterns available to buy, making your own can save you a lot of money and be more rewarding. By following our instructions, you’ll be able to create a customized lectern that suits your specific needs and style. So, let’s get started on crafting your own beautiful and functional lectern!

10 Steps to Make your Own Lectern:

Step 1: Determine the Size of Your Lectern

Before starting with your lectern making process, the very first thing you need to decide is the dimensions of your lectern. Do you want it to be large or small? Will it be used at a conference or a church? Determining the size will help you select the amount of materials you’ll require, the space you’ll need to work, and the amount of time it will take you to make it.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Tabletop

The tabletop is the foundation of your lectern. Using your dimensions, measure and cut the sheet of your selected base material, i.e. plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF, which is more substantial and less expensive than hardwood). Also, cut the edges of the panel that will give it a refined look.

Step 3: Preparing the Tabletop

It’s now time to sand the top of the desk. You may use an electric sander, a sanding disc, or sandpaper to do this task. Afterward, clean the dust using a rag or vacuum cleaner.

Step 4: Design the Lectern’s Body

Design the frame for the front and sides of the body to attach to the tabletop next. The sides should be parallel to the front and around the same height as your table.

Step 5: Cut and Sand the Legs and other Components

Cut the legs and other components of your lectern that you want to use next. Sand them properly to get rid of any sharp edges.

Step 6: Assemble the Body

Use screws to attach the front, sides, and legs to the desk. You may use wood glue first if you want your body to be even more durable.

Step 7: Scribe the Lectern’s Top Edge

Take your countertop’s thickness and cut strips of your preferred material to fit around the sides of the lectern. Attach the strips in the same manner as the legs, gluing in place initially and then screwing into the tabletop.

Step 8: Prestain the Lectern

Before adding paint or varnish, you can use wood conditioner to help your base material take in stain more evenly.

Step 9: Apply your Paint and Varnish

Next, you can apply paint or varnish to protect your lectern and give it a professional finish. Using a paintbrush or sprayer, apply an even coat on all sides of the wood, including the tabletop, sides, front, legs, and edges.

Step 10: Add Your Final Touches

Finally, you may add any final touches to your lectern to give it a custom appearance. This could include adding a small platform or book holder, attaching a mic holder, or adding casters for easy movement.

By the end of these ten steps, you should have a sturdy yet stylish lectern that will be perfect for any public speaking occasion. Now, you can confidently present your ideas from an original and personalized lectern that you have made yourself!

Materials Needed for Making a Lectern

Once you have decided to build a lectern, the next step is to gather all the materials you will need. Here is a list of things you will need:

Wood

The type of wood required for making a lectern will depend on your preference. However, hardwood is best suited for the job because it is stronger and will last longer. You’ll need to select your wood according to the size of the lectern you want to make. Typically, oak, cherry, and maple woods are recommended.

Circular Saw

A circular saw is necessary to cut the wood to the right size. If you’re using a 4×8 piece of wood, you will need to cut it into sections to have the pieces necessary to build your lectern.

Laser Level

A laser level is handy when you’re trying to make straight cuts on wood. This tool helps to ensure that the saw is cutting exactly where you want it to.

Drill

You’ll need a drill to insert screws into the wood. A power drill is ideal because it saves time and effort.

Jigsaw

A jigsaw is another tool that is necessary for making curved cuts on the wooden pieces.

Screwdriver Bits

You’ll need to insert screws into the wood pieces, and a screwdriver will be required to drive those screws in.

Sandpaper

Sandpaper plays a crucial role in smoothing the rough edges of the wood. You will need a variety of grits to sand the wood in different stages.

Wood Glue

Wood glue is an essential component when building a lectern. It’s especially useful when you’re trying to fit two pieces together to form a single piece.

Router

A router is an optional tool and is used to make intricate cuts on wood pieces. You will need a router if you want to add details or designs to your lectern.

Pencil and Measuring Tape

Measuring tape and pencil are tools for marking the wood before cutting it. Make sure that you always take the necessary measurements before cutting to ensure accuracy.

In conclusion, you will need a good selection of tools to build a quality lectern. It is essential to have all these items at hand before beginning the project. These tools can be purchased or hired from rental shops if you don’t have them in your possession. The next step is to cut the wood to size and sand it to a smooth finish. Once that’s done, you can start building your lectern.

Materials Needed

Before you start building your lectern, you should gather all the required materials to avoid any delays or interruptions during the construction process. Here is a list of materials you will need:

Cutting and Measuring Wood

The first step in constructing your lectern is cutting and measuring the wood pieces. Follow these steps:

1. Cut the two sheets of plywood into the following sizes:
   • Top – 2ft by 2ft
   • Base – 2ft by 2ft
   • Back – 2ft by 3ft
   • Sides (2) – 2ft by 4ft
   • Shelf – 2ft by 1ft
2. Cut the 2×4 lumber to the following sizes:
   • Legs (4) – 4ft each
   • Crossbar – 3ft
3. Use the sandpaper to sand all the wood pieces until they are smooth and free of splinters.

Assembling the Base of the Lectern

The base of your lectern will consist of the base and legs. Follow these steps to build the base:

1. Place the plywood base on a flat surface with the smooth side facing down.
2. Attach the legs to the base using 2 1/2 inch screws. Two legs should be attached at the front of the base and two at the back.
3. Measure and mark the center of the base. Attach the crossbar to the legs at the center using 2 1/2 inch screws.
4. Apply wood glue to all the joints for added stability.

Constructing the Lectern Body

The body of your lectern will consist of the back, sides, and shelf. Follow these steps to build the body:

1. Stand the base upright and attach the back to the base using 1 1/4 inch screws. The back should be flush with the back edge of the base.
2. Attach the sides to the base and back using 1 1/4 inch screws. The sides should be flush with the front and back edge of the base and the back.
3. Attach the shelf to the sides using 1 1/4 inch screws. The shelf should be attached 1-foot from the bottom of the sides.
4. Apply wood glue to all the joints for added stability.

Congratulations! You have now completed the construction of your lectern body.

Now You’re Ready to Make Your Own Lectern!

I hope this guide has been helpful in showing you how to make a lectern. Remember to take measurements, choose the right materials and tools, and use the designs and tips outlined in this article. Don’t be afraid to tweak the design and personalize it to suit your needs. Thanks for reading and I hope you’ll visit us again for more DIY projects and inspiration!