How to Build Built-In Bookcases

A bookcase can be either an eyesore or a conversation piece. If you want the latter, built-ins are the way to go. They're fairly easy to build and can actually save you money.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 3/4 inch plywood
• beadboard
• crown moulding
• wood screws
• hinges
• shelf pins
• table or Panel Saw
• paintable/stainable edge banding
• square
• drill
• tape measurer
• glue
• finish nailer or small hammer
• finish nails

1. Determine the size of your bookcase(s). Go no deeper than 20 inches unless you intend display other objects besides books. Stay at least 2 to 3 inches from the ceiling to leave room for crown. Any space over 30 inches wide will require additional support.

2. Make a cutlist. Remember to include 3 inch tall toebases to support the case and to leave room for crown (for example: a room with a 9 foot ceiling should have a bookcase no taller than 103 inches). Both sides, top, bottom and shelves should be made of 3/4 inch plywood. The back should be made of beadboard.

3. Make your cuts.

4. Sand every surface that will remain visible (including crown moulding). Start with 100 grit sand paper and sand again with 120. If you have an orbital sander you'll save yourself a lot of time.

5. Build the boxes. Attach sides, top and bottom. You will need at least 1 fixed shelf approximately halfway between the top and bottom of the box. All other shelves can be adjustable just remember to make the shelves at least 12 inches apart to accomidate taller books.

6. Edgeband. Glue edgebanding onto the face (front) of the bookcases. Let dry. Trim edgebanding and wipe off excess glue.

7. Attach the beadboard backs. If your bookcase is taller than the beadboard you purchased, hide seams behind shelves.

8. Paint or stain your bookcases and crown moulding. Use as many coats as necessary. You may need to prime the bookcases if you are using a lighter colored paint.

9. Install. Level toebases first. Attach bookcases to toebases and wall studs always checking that you are still level. When you are satisfied, attach crown moulding with finish nails. Cover nail holes with filler and touch up paint.

Tips & Warnings

• Always measure twice
• Team lift heavy objects
• For an even better look use crown moulding along your entire wall and wrap around the bookcases creating a seamless look.
• If you're painting inside, open a window

[bmi57]

on 11/27/2007 Great steps, thank you.