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Step 1
Measure your books. Measuring every book isn't necessary but your design specifications will need to be different if you have large chemistry texts versus mostly trade paperbacks. Use the general size of your books as a guide for the height and depth of shelves.
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Step 2
Take measurements of the room. An upright bookshelf is movable, but you should measure the height of the room and the length of the wall where you intend to put the shelf initially. In measuring, remember to account for bringing the shelf into the room; give yourself an inch or so of space.
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Step 3
Draw out the diagram. Open-faced bookshelves are pretty basic in design, and you can start with just right-angled drawings, even if you want the finished product to be more complicated.
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Step 4
Write the measurements for the upright bookshelf. The dimensions are vital because they help determine the materials you need and because they let you know whether the design is feasible. A simple set of upright bookshelves measures roughly 44 inches at the opening, making each shelf 22 inches wide, 6 ft. high and 10 inches deep. Base your measurements off of these when designing your upright bookshelf.
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Step 5
Determine the materials you'll use for the kick plate, the backboard and other parts of the shelving unit. These materials will affect the cost and the time of construction. For example, oak is one of the more sturdy woods available, but the cost is double what you'll pay for the same amount of pine. Backboards can be made with thin wood, or even plywood if you want to save money on the project.
