How to Customize a Prefab Bookcase With Molding

Molding customizes a stock bookcase.

Adding molding to a prefab bookcase gives the case a custom look. The molding turns the bookcase from ordinary to a designer piece. It's also a way to unify a group of slightly different prefab cases. Use prefinished molding or molding painted to match your bookcase. Or add the molding and then paint the molding and case to match. If your bookcase extends to the ceiling, adding crown molding can make it look built-in.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Pencil and paper
• Miter box and miter saw
• Wood glue
• Finishing nails
• Hammer
• Damp rag

Instructions

1. Measure across the front of the bookcase at the top, sides and bottom and write down these measurements.

2. Cut your molding to correspond to your measurements. Miter the corners, which will involve inward-angling cuts that are usually 45 degrees. Use the miter box and miter saw to get the proper angle.

3. Apply wood glue to the back of the piece of molding that fits at the top of your bookcase, and press the molding in place. Drive finishing nails into the ends and middle of the molding to help secure it.

4. Glue and nail molding along the sides and bottom of the bookcase. Wipe away any excess glue with a damp rag.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also add smaller, decorative trim across the front of each shelf in the bookcase. Glue these on without nails, because nails could cause the shelves to split.

References

• Ron Hazelton Home Improvement Online: How to Add Classic Detail to a Bookcase