How to Enclose a Bookcase

Enclose a bookcase using basic hardware supplies.

Bookcases are helpful in keeping your books well organized and in maintaining a tidy room, but you may not want to always see all of the books filling up the shelves. One solution is to enclose the bookcase to provide concealment for your books. Purchase all of the supplies you need to enclose a bookcase inexpensively at any hardware or home improvement store. Using affordable supplies, such as plywood and wood stain, enables you to enclose a bookcase without spending a fortune.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Plywood
• Circular saw
• Electric sander
• Medium-grit sanding belt
• Washcloth
• Brass hinges with screws
• Screwdriver
• Brass latch with screws

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the front of the bookcase you want to enclose, then cut out a shape from a sheet of plywood using a circular saw to the exact measurements.

2. Sand all of the surfaces of the plywood piece, including the corners and edges, using an electric sander with a medium-grit sanding belt. This will make the surface of the plywood smooth, removing any splintering or roughness.

3. Wipe off the plywood piece using a slightly damp washcloth to remove sawdust and debris caused by the sanding.

4. Lay the bookcase flat with the open side facing up, and place the plywood enclosure on top of the bookcase. Line up the edges.

5. Place two to three brass hinges along one side of the bookcase, folding one side of each hinge across the plywood piece and the other side of each hinge over the bookcase side. Screw the hinges in place with a screwdriver.

6. Place a latch onto the opposite side of the bookcase as the hinges, folding one side of the latch over the plywood and the other over the bookcase side. Screw the latch in place with a screwdriver to complete the enclosed bookcase.

Tips & Warnings

• Decorate the front of the bookcase enclosure using stencils and latex paint.

• Keep circular saws and electric sanders out of the reach of children.

References

• Popular Woodworking: Rules for Sanding Wood