How to Build Cherry Bookcases
A custom-made wooden bookcase is a beautiful accent to any home's décor. What can only add to the appeal is the attractiveness of cherry wood, with its rich color and patina. With few supplies and little woodworking knowledge, you can build cherry bookcases in an afternoon that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Two, 1 x 8 inch boards, 4 feet long for sides
- Three, 1 x 8 inch boards, 30 inches long for shelves
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Hammer and nails
- One, 1 x 12 inch board, 3 feet long for top
- Sandpaper
- Wood stain
Instructions
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1
Lean the 4 foot side boards against a wall, or rest them on the floor. Choose one end to be the top of the shelves. Measure 12 inches down from the top and mark a line across the width of the boards.
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2
Mark a second shelf line 13 inches away from the first. Measure and mark the bottom shelf line 17 inches down from the second line.
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3
Stand up the boards and have a friend hold them 30 inches apart with the pencil lines facing one another. Hold a 30 inch board to one of the bottom lines. Align the top edge of the shelf with the pencil mark. Nail into place. Match up the top edge of the shelf with the line on the opposite side board, and nail into place as well.
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4
Repeat the process of attaching the shelves along the next two lines.
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5
Place the top board over the entire unit. Line up the board so there is a 2-inch overhang on all sides of the board. Nail into place.
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6
Sand the entire bookcase along the flat surfaces as well as the corner edges. Apply wood stain or a clear coat as desired to bring out the tones of the cherry wood.
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Tips & Warnings
For a more decorative look, cut out a small semi-circle from the bottom of the side boards and sand the edges smooth.
It is not recommended to paint cherry wood because by doing so, you mask the wood's natural tones. If you want a painted bookcase, consider building with a cheaper wood such as pine.
