How to Make Wood Bookcases
Wood bookcases are most commonly made from solid wood, although plywood is sometimes used for certain elements. Hardwoods, such as oak, stand up better to long-term use than softwoods, such as pine. The hardwoods tend to deflect and deform less over time. Wood bookcases consist of a frame, shelves and a back panel. Molding can be used to add decorative touches to the borders of the frame and to hide any exposed joints. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Decide what design you want for your bookcase and find a plan if possible. You can create your own plan, but it is usually easier to follow one that has already been developed. The first thing you will need to decide is whether you want a tower case, which is usually at least five shelves, or a three-shelf bookcase. Next, you will have to decide what wood you intend to use and determine your exact measurements, including width, height and shelf spacing.
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Build the pieces of your frame. This includes sides, top, bottom shelf and base plate, or kick plate and is usually made with 3/4-inch solid planks, although 3/4-inch plywood is an acceptable substitute. If you use planks, you may have to join them lengthwise with clamps and wood glue to get the correct width. Prepare the frame elements for whatever joints you plan to use. Dados or dowel holes can be used for shelves, a dado may be necessary for the back panel, lap joints can be used for the base plate and any other joints you may need should be prepared. Finally, cut 1/4 inch plywood for the back panel.
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Cut the shelves to the length required and prepare them for assembly. Solid wood planks are best for shelves and should always be used for longer shelves, such as those used in typical two- and three-shelf bookcases, to prevent sagging. You may need to join planks to get the correct width.
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Assemble the bookcase using wood glue and clamps. Insert dowels if dowel joints were used. Wipe away excess glue that seeps from the joints with a damp paper towel. Alternately, you can use screws instead of clamps, but this does not usually leave a visually appealing finish. Allow to the glue to set completely before removing the clamps. Different brands of wood glue have different curing times, so follow the directions on the brand you choose.
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Add veneer or molding around the top and front side edges. This will cover any joints and add a visually appealing decorative effect. This can be attached with glue and clamped or simply nailed in place with small brads. The nail countersink can be filled with any paintable or stainable wood filler.
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Apply a finish to the assembled bookshelves. A vast variety is open to you in this area. Stains of various types and colors, varnishes, oils and paints are just the beginning. A stain that will bring out the natural grain in the wood is usually best, but anything that will meet your decorative needs will work.
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Tips & Warnings
Observe all safety practices while working with woodshop equipment, including wearing safety glasses and using safety fences on the table saw.
