Saturday 8 June 2013

How to Make Bookshelves

Finished Bookcase

Before You Begin

As far as shelving goes, it doesn't get simpler than this. Alter the dimensions to suit your space. As for any project that requires identical sizes, have pieces cut by a cabinet-maker or sheet material supplier. Since there are only two different shelf spacings, use spacer blocks to save on repetitious measuring.
Usually the highest shelves are at the base for sturdiness but, because the big books are sometimes the best looking and most-often used, these shelves alternate between 9 1/2-in. and 13-in. and are fixed for strength. The tallest unit is 85-in., the middle is 61-in., then 37-in.. To keep the cost down, the units are made from 3/4-in., but if you use a thicker wood, they could be slightly wider. Make it easy on the eye by designing the shelves of each unit to line up. Finish them in a bright, reflective color to lighten the area.
Bookcase BeforeSue Ferris[+]
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Step 1: Attach the Top to One Side

Round over all edges using a router with a 1/8-in. roundover bit. Screw and glue the top piece to one side with #8 x 2-in. screws, ensuring the top is flush with the top edge of the end. Use the 9 1/2-in. spacer to attach the first shelf.
Step 1: Attach the Top to One SideSue Ferris[+]

Step 2: Position the Shelves

Screw and glue the next shelf in position, using the 13-in. spacer between the two, ensuring the shelf is firmly set against the spacer block. Repeat using the 9 1/2-in. spacer for the bottom shelf.
Step 2: Position the ShelvesSue Ferris[+]

Step 3: Attach the Remaining Side

Rotate the cabinet on the workbench and attach the other side, gluing and screwing shelves into place. For accurate positioning use the corresponding spacer blocks, beginning from the top shelf and working down.
Step 3: Attach the Remaining SideSue Ferris[+]

Step 4: Fix the Base

Screw and glue the base into position. Set it back 3/16-in. from the front edge of the bottom shelf. Glue an offcut of timber behind the base to stop it flexing in the middle.
Step 4: Fix the BaseSue Ferris[+]
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Step 5: Attach the Back

Flip the cabinet over onto the face and attach the 1/2-in. back with #6 x 1 1/4-in.. Start by working down one side then across the top to ensure the cabinet remains square.
Step 5: Attach the BackSue Ferris[+]
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Add Step 6: Paint

Paint inside, face and sides with an interior primer or wall undercoat. If you don't intend to paint the backs, at least paint along the top of the backing board where it's visible from the stairs. Use a spray paint, brush or roller two coats of paint on the sides. If the units will be full (rather than housing ornaments) one coat inside is enough.
Finished BookcaseSue Ferris[+]

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