The best magazine
- 1). Measure the location of your bookshelf so you can plan its size and shape. If you want to design a free standing element, you are generally not bound by the width of the bookcase. But, if you want to fit the shelf into a niche, having the precise width is very important. Wherever you want to put your bookshelf, make sure the width, depth and height are compatible not only to the usual measure requirements for bookshelves, but with the location too.
- 2). Plan and design you bookshelf according to the dimensions you took and more importantly, according to book dimensions and the final look you want to achieve. Think about how many shelves you need and whether you want the shelves in different sizes. Note that there are very large books such as encyclopedias that deviate from standard dimensions and can only fit in very high and deep shelves. When you have the final design, buy the material needed according to the plan. Calculate the length of wood you need by adding 2 sides, top, bottom and shelves, adding at least 15 percent for possible mistakes. For the back, you will need either thick cardboard or one-quarter inch plywood. For example, a 64 inch high bookshelf has approximately 5 to 6 shelves. A medium shelf, 50 inch high, has 4 to 5 shelves and a small 35 inch bookcase has 3 to 4 shelves. The height of a bookshelf varies and can be anywhere from 5 to 12 inches, depending of what kind of design you want.
- 3). Cut the boards into their final shape, so you can construct the frame for your bookshelf. Use a circular saw for this task and make sure to double check the measurements, marking a precise line on the wood surface prior to the cutting. Cut two sides, top and bottom and then you will have the necessary elements for the bookshelf frame.
- 4). Treat the edges of the pine board elements you cut with fine sandpaper to achieve a smooth surface. Make sure not to make the corners too round, especially if you plan the shelves to reach all the way to the side of the frame. Even if you want the shelves to be slightly shorter than the depth of the frame, edges that are too round will not look so good. Treat all the edges with sandpaper to achieve a smooth, yet sleek and rectangular look.
- 5). Assemble the frame together and glue it using wood glue. This will help keep the whole bookshelf frame together until it is finally screwed and secured. Let the bookshelf frame dry completely, following the instructions on the wood glue.
- 6). Finish your bookshelf frame by screwing the sides, top and bottom together. First use a pencil to mark the places for the screws. Then use a power drill to make the holes and finally insert screws and tighten them with a screwdriver. Your frame in now complete and this is the last chance to change your mind regarding the number, size, shape and the height of the shelves.
- 7). Measure and mark the places for the shelves on the inside of the frame. Use a ruler and a pencil for this task, but also use a level so the line you draw is perfectly horizontal.
- 8). Mount the metal L-brackets to the inside of the frame, precisely in the place you marked with the pen. Note that L-brackets always come with their own screws, so make sure to make the appropriate holes with a power drill, using a drill bit slightly smaller than the screws. Then place the L-brackets and firmly tighten the mounting screws with a screwdriver.
- 9). Cut the wooden board of your choice into the precise dimension on the shelves which is basically the width of the inside frame. Make as many shelves you need and make sure they all have the same depth. After cutting the board with a circular saw, use sandpaper to treat the edges.
- 10
Place the shelves on the brackets and check if they are level. If you measured everything right, you should be able to simply slide the shelves into the frame. Also check if all the L-brackets are secure and firm. - 11
Add a backside to your bookshelf if you want to. Use a circular saw to cut the plywood into the dimension of the frame. Then use hammer and nails to attach it to the back of the frame. Note that the back of the bookshelf can be of different color or texture than the rest of the wood. - 12
Treat the surface of your new bookshelf anyway you wish. Note that wood needs to be treated with a primer prior to any painting or glossing.
Source: ...