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Step 1
A bookcase should be mostly - well, you guessed it - books. I would suggest at least 75% of the items on a bookcase to be books. Your bookcase will feel more like a library if you use 100% books, which may or may not be the look you are after. Display hardback books only. For more charm, remove the paper jackets from your books (unless they are collectables).
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Step 2
Remember that a bookcase should not only be beautiful, it needs to be functional also. Organize books by type, subject matter, or author, not by color because it can look too contrived.
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Step 3
If you have a bookcase with very few books, consider buying books in bulk to compliment your decor. Your local library will usually sell extra copies of books, you can buy books at your local used book store, or get them at yard sales. Make sure you remove the paper jackets to see the color of the spine. Books that look like they have been read many times add charm to a room. Generally, if you have a dark bookcase you will want books that are a lighter color. If you have a light bookcase, you will want books that are a darker color.
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Step 4
Add substantial bookends, not little ones. You can also use a stack of smaller books turned on end instead of bookends. Heavy statuary or a small clock can also be used as bookends.
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Step 5
Leave a little bit of empty space, maybe 10%. A completely filled bookcase does not allow room for new books.
Comments
sockmonkey said
on 2/26/2009 Good advice for us readers, I love having my books in view- I need to take your advice and leave some "breathing" space. Looks better not all crammed in!
researchpro said
on 2/10/2009 I have LOTS of books, so thanks for the advice!
JSimpson said
on 1/23/2009 Well written and great advice!
zemzem82 said
on 1/12/2009 Shoot i need a bookcase right now. I might have to go mr. handyman and use 75% of my shelf and put manly things around it.- zemzem.ecrater.com
daconn said
on 1/1/2009 I'm an avid reader. I love your advice!