DIY Cubed Bookshelf

Cube bookshelves can be any size and configuration.

Cube bookshelves can be built in a variety of shapes and sizes. Because they are made up of individual cubes, you can make use of negative space to break away from the traditional square or rectangular shape that most bookshelves must conform to. This project makes use of very simple woodworking techniques, making it a good first project if you want to try building your own furniture.

Things You'll Need

• 2-by-10 boards
• Saw
• Drill
• 1/16-inch bit
• 2-inch wood screws
• Screwdriver
• Wood glue
• Brush
• Clamps
• Wood putty
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper
• Paint or stain (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut two 15-inch pieces of 1-by-10 board with a saw, then cut two 13 1/2-inch pieces.

2. Sand any rough edges off the cut boards with 80-grit sandpaper.

3. Assemble the four pieces into a box, with the shorter pieces sandwiched between the longer ones.

4. Drill three 1/16-inch pilot holes in each corner, then assemble the box with 2-inch wood screws screwed into each hole. Countersink the screws slightly below the surface of the wood.

5. Repeat this process to build as many cubes as you want in your bookcase.

6. Assemble your bookshelf by stacking the cubes on top of each other. Experiment with different configurations. You are not restricted to a square or rectangular shape. For example, you could create step or pyramid shapes, or higher ends on a low shelf like the turrets on a castle.

7. Brush wood glue between each box when you have selected a configuration that you like.

8. Clamp the boxes together and allow the wood glue to dry. This can take up to 48 hours depending on the glue that you use.

9. Fill any exposed screw holes with wood putty, scraping it smooth with a putty knife. Use wood putty to fill in any cracks between the boxes as well. Allow the putty to dry.

10. Sand the wood putty with 120-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface.

11. Paint or stain the bookshelf as desired.

References

• MI Stupid: Lumber Dimensions
• "Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual"; Reader's Digest; 2005