In my journey to find the ideal piano table for my 8-year-old daughter, the phrase “If you want something done right, do it yourself” couldn’t have been more accurate. After exhaustively searching through X-type and Z-type stands, and even scouring through countless wooden models on Amazon, it became clear that none of these options fulfilled our specific requirements for comfort and posture support. This realisation propelled me into deep research, where I turned to YouTube and specialized websites to understand the ergonomic needs of young pianists. Armed with this knowledge, I started on a personal project to design and construct a custom piano table. With planning on my laptop and get it done by a carpenter, we crafted a piano table that was not just a piece of furniture, but a bespoke solution tailored to encourage correct posture, ensure comfort, and enhance the overall practice experience.
The Quest Begins
In the hunt for a solid piano stand, I started with the X-type and Z-type options readily available on the market. Unfortunately, neither lived up to my expectations. The X-type, while adjustable, was prone to shaking, failing to provide the steadiness needed during practice. Although Z-type stands offered an improvement in stability, they still lacked in adaptability and didn’t quite suit my taste due to their frame design. Additionally, the cost of prefabricated wooden stands was surprisingly high, more than what I estimated it would cost to build one tailored to my needs. My checklist was specific: I needed a stand that was not only stable and ergonomically designed to support correct posture but also capable of holding the main piano, a smaller piano, several music books, sheet music, a laptop, and a tablet stand seamlessly during use. Additionally, the color of the stand should match the other items in the room.
Finally I realised that the only way to get exactly what I wanted was to design it myself.
X-Type Stand
Z-Type Stand
Designing the Perfect Piano Table
The journey to create the perfect piano stand started with an in-depth look into ergonomics. My goal was to design a stand that wasn’t just aesthetically pleasing but also conducive to maintaining the posture. I delved into various aspects, such as the optimal height, depth, and tilt of the stand, to ensure it would support the the back, neck, and arms without causing unnecessary strain.
Equipped with this knowledge, I then brought my concept to life using design software on my laptop. This crucial step transformed my ideas into a precise 3D model, enabling me to tweak the design in real time and make real-time adjustments, and see how it would fit into my space.
Explore the stand’s different configurations in the 3D model. Find detailed length specifications in the attached PDF at the bottom of this page.
Facet -1 : Normal setup
Facet -2 : Extended form
Bringing the Design to Life
With the design finalised, the next step was to bring it to life. I chose plywood for the construction due to its durability, affordability. I then contacted a carpenter, sharing my designs and specifications. Working closely with the carpenter, I was able to oversee the project’s progress and make any necessary adjustments along the way. One adjustment I made was to introduce a curve instead of a plain straight on top of the sides, adding an aesthetic touch
The Final Product
The final product is a custom-built piano table that satisfies all my criteria. It is stable and designed with a height that supports proper playing posture, featuring a personalized aesthetic that complements my space. Suitable for both young learners and also for adults, the journey from concept to completion was time-consuming but ultimately rewarding.
This project taught me that sometimes, to get exactly what you need, you have to take matters into your own hands. I hope this blog inspires others to explore DIY solutions for their musical needs, blending functionality, comfort, and personal style into their practice spaces. Whether you’re crafting a stand for a young learner, are a seasoned musician, or a hobbyist, remember that the right setup can significantly enhance your playing experience. Don’t hesitate to think outside the box and create a space that meets your needs and reflects your personality.
