10 Easy DIY Laptop Stand Ideas You Can Make This Weekend

Creating your own DIY laptop stand is a practical weekend project that can significantly improve your work setup while saving money. These homemade laptop stands not only elevate your device to a more ergonomic height—reducing neck and back strain—but also allow for better airflow around your laptop, potentially extending its lifespan. With these DIY laptop stand ideas, you can customize the design to match your specific needs and workspace aesthetic using materials you likely already have at home.

Whether you're working remotely, studying, or just browsing the web, a proper laptop stand can transform your computing experience. In this guide, we'll explore 10 DIY laptop stand ideas that range from super simple to moderately challenging, using various materials from wood to cardboard. Each project can be completed in a weekend or less, making them perfect for busy individuals looking to upgrade their workspace without breaking the bank.

Why You Need a DIY Laptop Stand

Using a laptop flat on a desk forces you to hunch over, creating strain on your neck, shoulders, and back. A properly positioned laptop stand raises your screen to eye level, promoting better posture and reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries. Commercial stands can be expensive, but DIY options offer the same ergonomic benefits at a fraction of the cost.

Beyond ergonomics, laptop stands improve cooling by allowing air to circulate underneath your device. This prevents overheating, which can slow performance and potentially damage internal components over time. Creating your own stand lets you customize the height, angle, and design to perfectly suit your workspace and physical needs—something off-the-shelf products rarely offer.

Materials You'll Need for DIY Laptop Stands

The beauty of DIY laptop stands is that they can be constructed from a wide variety of materials, many of which you may already have around your home. Common materials include wood (plywood, pine boards, bamboo), PVC pipes, cardboard, books, concrete, metal pipes, acrylic sheets, and even LEGO bricks. Basic tools like a saw, drill, sandpaper, ruler, and glue gun will be helpful for most projects.

When selecting materials, consider durability, weight, and aesthetics. For example, wood offers a classic look and sturdy support but requires more tools to work with. Cardboard is extremely accessible and easy to customize but may not last as long. PVC is lightweight and durable but has a more industrial appearance. Choose materials that match both your skill level and the intended permanence of your stand.

1. Wooden Laptop Stand With Adjustable Angle

A wooden laptop stand offers both durability and aesthetic appeal. For this project, you'll need two 12"x8" pieces of ¾" plywood or solid wood, four hinges, and a locking mechanism like a sliding bolt. Cut one board to serve as the base and the other as the laptop platform. Sand all edges smooth to prevent scratching your laptop or desk. Attach the boards with hinges at the back edge, allowing the top piece to adjust to different angles.

To make it adjustable, create a simple locking mechanism by attaching a sliding bolt to the side or using a wooden dowel that can be positioned in different notches cut into supporting pieces. Add rubber feet to the bottom for stability and non-slip pads on the top surface to keep your laptop secure. This stand can be stained or painted to match your desk and offers excellent airflow for laptop cooling.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut two pieces of wood to identical 12"x8" rectangles
2. Sand all surfaces and edges until smooth
3. Attach hinges to connect the boards along one 12" edge
4. Create notches or a locking mechanism for angle adjustment
5. Add rubber feet to the bottom board
6. Apply non-slip pads to the top surface
7. Finish with paint or stain as desired

2. Simple Cardboard Laptop Stand

Don't underestimate cardboard as a material for a functional laptop stand. This ultra-budget-friendly option can be surprisingly sturdy when designed correctly. Start with a thick corrugated cardboard box. Cut two identical triangular pieces for the sides, with dimensions based on your desired height and angle. Then cut a rectangular piece for the platform where your laptop will rest.

Assemble the pieces using strong glue or tape, ensuring the platform is level and stable. For added durability, reinforce stress points with additional cardboard layers or duct tape. You can customize your cardboard stand with paint, decorative paper, or washi tape. While not as long-lasting as other materials, a well-made cardboard stand can serve you for months and is easily replaceable when needed.

Cardboard Stand Template Measurements:

• Side triangles: 10" base x 8" height (cut 2)
• Platform: 12" x 10" rectangle (cut 1)
• Optional crossbar for stability: 10" x 3" rectangle (cut 1)

3. PVC Pipe Laptop Stand

PVC pipe creates a modern, industrial-looking laptop stand that's both lightweight and incredibly strong. Purchase ¾" PVC pipes and appropriate connectors (elbows, T-joints, and caps) from any hardware store. The basic design involves creating a rectangular frame with four vertical pieces for height and horizontal pieces to form the platform.

The beauty of PVC is its modularity—you can easily adjust the design by cutting pipes to different lengths or reconfiguring the connectors. For a more finished look, sand the PVC and spray paint it in your color of choice. Add rubber caps to the bottom pieces for stability and to prevent scratching your desk. This stand is particularly good for those who need different height options, as you can easily create multiple sets of legs of varying heights.

Materials Needed:

• ¾" PVC pipe (approximately 8 feet total)
• 4 elbow connectors
• 4 T-connectors
• 8 end caps
• PVC cement (optional for permanent assembly)
• Rubber end caps for feet
• Spray paint (optional)

4. Book Stack Laptop Stand

For an instant laptop stand solution requiring zero construction, look no further than your bookshelf. Select several hardcover books of similar size to create stable stacks. Place two stacks about 8-10 inches apart (depending on your laptop size) and position your laptop on top. This creates space underneath for airflow while raising your screen to a more comfortable height.

To prevent your laptop from sliding, place a non-slip mat or rubber pad on top of the books. You can adjust the height easily by adding or removing books from each stack. While simple, this solution is highly portable and requires no tools or materials you don't already have. It's perfect for temporary workstations or when traveling to places where you might have access to books.

5. Adjustable Bamboo Laptop Stand

Bamboo is an excellent material for a laptop stand due to its lightweight yet durable nature. For this project, purchase a bamboo cutting board or bamboo placemat as your platform. Create legs using bamboo dowels or even chopsticks for a fully bamboo aesthetic. Drill holes in the corners of the board to insert the legs, securing them with wood glue.

For adjustability, you can create multiple sets of legs of different heights that can be swapped out as needed. Alternatively, design a folding mechanism using small hinges and bamboo pieces. Bamboo naturally has a beautiful finish, but you can also apply food-safe oil to enhance its appearance. This eco-friendly option adds a natural, minimalist touch to your workspace while providing excellent durability.

6. Concrete and Copper Pipe Industrial Stand

For those who appreciate industrial design, a concrete and copper pipe laptop stand makes a striking statement piece. Create two small concrete blocks using simple DIY concrete mix and plastic containers as molds. Insert copper pipes into the wet concrete before it sets completely, positioning them to extend upward as supports for your laptop.

Once the concrete has cured (typically 24-48 hours), you can connect the copper pipes across the top using T-joints and additional pipes to create a platform, or simply rest your laptop directly on the extended pipes if they're positioned correctly. This heavyweight option provides excellent stability and a unique aesthetic that works well in modern workspaces. The concrete blocks can be sanded smooth and sealed or left raw for different looks.

Required Materials:

• Quick-setting concrete mix
• Plastic containers for molds
• ½" copper pipes and fittings
• Sandpaper
• Concrete sealer (optional)
• Rubber pads for bottom of concrete blocks

7. Laptop Stand From an Old Picture Frame

Repurpose an old picture frame into a stylish laptop stand with minimal effort. Choose a sturdy wooden frame large enough to support your laptop (approximately 14"x10" for most laptops). Remove the glass and backing, then attach small wooden blocks or furniture legs to the bottom corners to create height. These legs can be found at hardware stores or online.

Sand and paint the frame to match your decor if desired. To create a surface for your laptop, you can stretch fabric across the frame opening and secure it with staples, or install a thin piece of plywood cut to size. Add rubber feet to the bottom of the legs and non-slip material on the top surface. This upcycled stand adds character to your workspace while giving new life to an unused item.

8. IKEA Hack Laptop Stand

IKEA products can be repurposed into excellent laptop stands with minimal modifications. The IKEA BEKVÄM spice rack, which costs under $10, makes a perfect starting point. Simply mount it upside down on your wall at the appropriate height, or attach legs to transform it into a desk-based stand. The lip that normally keeps spices in place now prevents your laptop from sliding off.

Another option is to use the IKEA OSTBIT tablet stand, which can support most laptops at a comfortable angle. For a more substantial stand, combine two EKBY VALTER wall brackets (the triangular wooden ones) by attaching them to a piece of wood or acrylic to create a platform. These hacks offer the benefit of using pre-made, quality components while allowing for personal customization.

9. Collapsible Cardboard Laptop Stand

For those who need portability, a collapsible cardboard laptop stand is ideal. Using thick corrugated cardboard, create a design that folds flat when not in use. The basic structure involves a main platform with folding supports that lock into place when opened. Templates for such designs are readily available online and can be traced onto your cardboard.

Cut out your pieces carefully, score fold lines with a butter knife, and assemble using strong glue or double-sided tape. For added durability, cover the entire stand with contact paper or packing tape. When collapsed, this stand can fit easily into a laptop bag or backpack, making it perfect for digital nomads or anyone who works in multiple locations.

Advantages of a Collapsible Design:

• Extremely portable - fits in laptop bags
• Takes up minimal storage space
• Can be made from recycled materials
• Easy to replace if damaged
• Lightweight for travel

10. Wooden Wine Rack Conversion

An unused wooden wine rack can be cleverly repurposed into an attractive laptop stand with storage capabilities. Choose a tabletop wine rack with X-shaped compartments or horizontal slots. Position it so that the top provides a flat surface for your laptop, while the compartments below offer convenient storage for notebooks, pens, or even your keyboard when not in use.

You may need to add a thin piece of plywood to the top to create a completely flat surface. Sand any rough edges and apply a fresh coat of stain or paint if desired. Add non-slip material to the top surface and rubber feet to the bottom. This repurposed stand adds a touch of sophistication to your workspace while providing practical storage solutions.

Tips for Ergonomic Laptop Stand Design

When creating your DIY laptop stand, proper ergonomics should be a primary consideration. The ideal height should position your screen at or slightly below eye level when you're sitting with proper posture. This typically means the top of your screen should be about 2-3 inches above your eye level. The stand should allow for a slight tilt of the keyboard for comfortable typing.

Remember that using a laptop stand at the proper height often means you'll need an external keyboard and mouse for comfortable typing. Ensure your design includes enough space underneath for good airflow to prevent overheating. If you'll be using your laptop for extended periods, consider making your stand adjustable so you can switch between sitting and standing positions throughout the day to reduce fatigue and improve circulation.

Optimal Measurements for Ergonomics:

• Screen height: Top of screen 2-3 inches above eye level
• Viewing distance: 20-28 inches from eyes to screen
• Keyboard angle: 0-15 degrees for comfortable typing
• Stand depth: At least 9 inches to support laptop fully
• Width: At least 1 inch wider than your laptop on each side

Maintenance and Care for Your DIY Laptop Stand

To ensure the longevity of your DIY laptop stand, regular maintenance is essential. For wooden stands, apply a fresh coat of protective finish annually to prevent warping from humidity changes. Check and tighten any screws or fasteners periodically, as they can loosen with regular use. Clean your stand regularly to prevent dust buildup, which can transfer to your laptop's ventilation system.

For cardboard stands, avoid exposure to liquids and high humidity, which can weaken the structure. PVC stands should be checked for cracks or stress points, particularly at the joints. If your stand has moving parts for adjustability, occasionally apply a small amount of appropriate lubricant to keep the mechanisms working smoothly. With proper care, even the simplest DIY laptop stands can provide years of comfortable computing.

Conclusion: Choose the Right DIY Laptop Stand for Your Needs

With these 10 DIY laptop stand ideas, you can create a custom solution that perfectly matches your workspace, budget, and technical skills. Whether you opt for the simplicity of stacked books, the durability of wood, or the modern look of PVC and copper, each design offers ergonomic benefits that can significantly improve your computing experience and potentially reduce physical strain.

Consider your specific needs when selecting a project—do you need portability, adjustability, or maximum stability? Is aesthetic appeal important in your workspace? Do you have limited tools or prefer to use recycled materials? By answering these questions, you can choose the perfect DIY laptop stand project to tackle this weekend. Your neck, back, and laptop will thank you for the improved ergonomics and cooling benefits these simple projects provide.