How to Build a Library Bookcase Yourself
Building a library bookcase for your home is not nearly as challenging as it sounds. While there is a lot of measuring and cutting involved, the actual assembly is quite simple. There are many elaborate methods to go about this procedure, but the decoration and aesthetic additions are entirely up to the builder. A basic, reliable plan is listed here. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Several sheets of oak plywood (1/2-inch thick)
- Box of 3/4-inch nails
- Hammer
- Circular saw
- Tape measure
- Wood glue
Instructions
-
-
1
Measure and cut two pieces of wood 8 feet long and 16 inches wide (or longer if deeper shelves are desired: this outline will assume a width of 16 inches). Measure and cut six pieces of wood 4 feet long and 16 inches wide. Measure and cut 10 pieces of wood into 16 by 16-inch squares. Measure and cut two pieces of wood 16 by 5 inches. Cut one final 16-inch strip about 1 inch in width to use as a marker.
-
2
Glue a 16 by 16-inch square flat against a 8 foot by 16-inch piece, 8 inches from one end. Use the marker you cut to divide a 1/2-inch space (the initial thickness of the wood), and glue another 16 by 16 square next it, slightly further down the board. Continue this process until five squares are glued onto the longer piece, 1/2-inch apart from one another. Glue a 16 by 5-inch piece last, which should roughly reach the end the 8-foot board. Hammer 12 to 16 nails around the edges of each piece to reinforce them.
-
-
3
Repeat this procedure with the remaining five squares and 16 by 5-inch piece on the other 8-foot board.
-
4
Face the two longer pieces toward one another (with the squares on the inside) 4 feet apart. Slide the 4-foot boards lengthwise into the 1/2 inch slots left in between the attached squares, forming the shelves. Use the wood glue to secure them. Attach the top shelf last, which will sit atop the square fastened 8 inches from the end. The bottom shelf will be resting on the 16 by 5-inch piece, positioned in the last slot at the other end.
-
5
Carefully stand the case up and allow the glue to completely dry.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Between cutting the wood and beginning assembly, applying an attractive wood finish is recommended. Use a stain and/or a quality wood lacquer to ensure a professional end result. You may also wish to add a trim to the front of the case, which can simply be done by gluing appropriately sized pieces on the outward facing ends. Cutting your own framed trim takes quite a bit of skill, so it may be a good idea for less experienced woodworkers to purchase a pre-rendered design.
Always exercise caution when using power tools. Wear the proper safety eye-wear and gloves.
