How to Build a Bookshelf or Bookcase

Making your own bookshelf can save money.

When you are designing a home, it can be difficult to find a bookcase that fits into your available space. Instead of buying a shelving unit, which can be expensive, build your own. By creating a custom bookshelf, you can design it to your own specifications and finish it to fit perfectly into the room. You can build a bookshelf using materials you purchase from a home supply store or from wood pieces you already have around the house.

Instructions

1. Measure the area of your room and sketch out the bookcase design. Even a basic sketch will be useful when building the shelves. Label the sketch with exact measurements, including the width and length of each board.

2. Take your sketch to a home supply store and buy the wood. For a basic bookshelf, you will need two identical planks for the sides of the bookshelf. The remaining boards can all be the same length; buy two for the top and bottom and one for each individual shelf. Home supply stores will usually cut boards to the exact lengths you need. You will also need to buy a piece of plywood that will fit the back of the frame, including the thickness of the planks.

3. Build the outer frame of the bookcase. Lay out your top, bottom and side planks. Arrange the top plank so the edge sits just inside of the left plank; use screws or nails to secure them together. Repeat the process with the right side. Then, add the bottom plank. Leave the frame flat on the ground so it stays at right angles.

4. Mark off the location of each shelf; measure from the top down so the marks are at the same location on each side. Slide in one shelf plank at a time and attach a screw or nail from the outside of the shelf in to the edge of the board to secure it. If you are storing heavy books, you can add small brackets to the underside of each shelf for extra stability.

5. Flip the bookcase over. Use a hammer and small nails to attach the piece of plywood to the back of the bookcase to form the back. Use spray paint or varnish to finish the bookcase to match your home design.

References

• Popular Mechanics; How To Build a Bookcase; Rosario Capotosto; 2000