This project is by Shara from Woodshop Diaries. This DIY project is a classic staple piece that is useful for display and storage in any room of your house and can be customized to fit your style.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before you begin building your bookshelf, it’s essential to have all the necessary tools and materials ready. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- (2) 4×8 sheets ¾″ plywood
- (1) 4×8 sheet ½″ plywood
- (4) 1x2x8 boards
- (2) 1x3x8 boards (optional for trim)
- (1) 1x6x8 board
- 1″ pocket hole screws
- 1 ¼″ pocket hole screws
- 1 ¼″ wood screws
- 1 ¼″ long brad or finish nails
- Wood Glue
- Edge banding
- Minwax Weathered Oak Wood Stain
- Minwax Polycrylic
Tools required include a drill/driver, miter saw, circular saw, Kreg Rip Cut, pocket hole jig, and a brad or finish nailer.
Step 2: Cut Down the Plywood
Start by cutting down the plywood. For this project, Shara used ¾ inch plywood for the body and ½ inch plywood for the back. She ripped the plywood into strips for the sides, top, dividers, and bottom pieces. It’s crucial to measure accurately to ensure a perfect fit.
Step 3: Create Faux Shiplap on the Back Panel
To add character, Shara chose to create a faux shiplap look on the back panel. She made shallow slits in the ½ inch plywood to mimic the appearance of boards next to each other. This step is vital for achieving that rustic charm.
Step 4: Assemble the Main Body
With the pieces cut, it’s time to assemble the main body of the bookshelf. Shara recommends sanding all the pieces before assembly to make the process smoother. She used a pocket hole jig to drill holes into the top piece and bottom shelves for attachment.
Step 5: Install Dividers and Bottom Shelves
Next, Shara installed the vertical divider pieces. She used the bottom shelves as spacers to ensure proper alignment. It’s essential to attach these dividers carefully, as they help support the entire structure.
Step 6: Add the Remaining Shelves
After securing the dividers, Shara moved on to add the remaining shelves. She measured and cut the middle shelf to fit perfectly. Remember that the thickness of the plywood can vary, so measuring twice is always a good idea.
Step 7: Attach the Face Frame
The next step is to build and attach the face frame. Shara used 1×2 boards for the vertical parts and 1×6 boards for the top and bottom. This frame adds stability and a finished look to the bookshelf.
Step 8: Secure the Back
Once the face frame is in place, Shara secured the back panel to the dividers with screws. This step is vital for ensuring that the bookshelf maintains its shape and provides the necessary support for books and decorative items.
Step 9: Attach the Trim
Shara added trim along the top and bottom of the bookshelf for an extra touch of dimension. While this step is optional, it enhances the overall aesthetic of the piece.
Step 10: Apply Finish
Before applying the finish, Shara filled any nail holes with wood glue and sanded the area while wet. This technique helps fill the holes seamlessly. After that, she applied Minwax Weathered Oak wood stain followed by Minwax Polycrylic to seal the finish.
Step 11: Build and Install the Faux Gallery Rails
For those who want to add a unique flair, Shara created faux gallery rails using wooden dowels and balls. This addition not only enhances the design but also provides functionality to keep items secure on the shelves. She measured and marked where to place the rails carefully.
Step 12: Final Reveal
After completing all steps, Shara revealed the finished bookshelf. The final product is a blend of classic design with a modern twist thanks to the faux gallery rails. Whether you choose to include the rails or not, this bookshelf is sure to be a standout piece in any room.
Building this basic bookshelf with faux gallery rails is a rewarding project that adds functionality and style to your home. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful piece that you can customize to fit your space. Happy building!
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