How to Convert a Canoe Into a Bookcase

If you have an old canoe that is no longer water-worthy, you can convert it into a bookcase. This type of bookcase can be an essential part of a nautical or rustic theme. You can fit them to accommodate several books, some accent decor and pictures. To convert a canoe into a bookcase, you need some hand and power tools, a free weekend and a little imagination.

Things You'll Need

• Eye protection
• Dust mask
• Reciprocating saw
• Tape measure
• Notepad
• 1/2-inch plywood
• Table saw
• Nail gun
• Sander
• Stain

Instructions

1. Put on eye protection and a dust mask. Cut the canoe in half or three-quarters of the way from the bow with a reciprocating saw. Discard the cut-off stern.

2. Measure the length of the canoe from bow to the new bottom to determine how many shelves it can accommodate. Include at least 18- to 24-inches of space between each shelf. Measure the width starting at the point where you severed it and working toward the bow. There will be several different widths. Write the measurements down on a notepad.

3. Cut sections of 1/2-inch plywood with a table saw to make shelves. Make the shelves wide enough to fit inside the canoe snugly. Follow the measurements you took to make each shelf the right size. Insert the shelves into the canoe and secure in place with a nail gun.

4. Sand the entire canoe bookcase with a sander to make it smooth and remove any splinters. Stain the canoe bookcase with a stain of your choosing following the manufacturer's application instructions. Let dry for 24 hours or as long as suggested by the manufacturer.

References

• "Shelves Cabinets & Bookcases"; Matthew Teague, Fine Homebuilding, Fine Woodworking; 2008
• "The Pocket Hole Drilling Jig Project Book"; Danny Proulx; 2004