This DIY book stand is not only practical but also a great way to utilize scrap wood lying around your workshop. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Scrap wood (9″ wide pieces, preferably plywood)
- Walnut or contrasting wood for edge banding
- Wood glue
- Masking tape
- Saw (table saw, miter saw, or circular saw)
- Router (optional for grooves)
- Sander
- Finish (like Maker Brand Simple Finish)
Step 1: Gather Materials
David begins by searching through his scrap pile for usable wood. He emphasizes the importance of using what you have on hand, which not only saves money but also reduces waste. In this case, he finds a suitable piece of Baltic Birch or maple plywood.
Step 2: Cut the Pieces
Next, he sets the table saw fence to nine inches and rips a piece from the plywood. After that, he uses a miter saw to crosscut three pieces, each 11 inches long. These will form the three sides of the book stand.
Step 3: Edge Banding
To add a nice touch, David decides to edge band the plywood with walnut. He acknowledges that this step would have been easier if done before cutting to length but improvises by gluing the banding on the ends with masking tape, avoiding clamps.
Step 4: Create a Pencil Holder
For added functionality, David routes a groove in one of the side pieces to create a pencil holder. He glues this piece onto the bottom of the stand, ensuring everything is aligned correctly.
Step 5: Cutting the Miters
To achieve the desired angles for the book stand, David sets his miter saw to 30 degrees. However, since the saw can only go to 44 degrees, he improvises by making a jig that allows him to cut the necessary angles accurately.
Step 6: Glue Up the Stand
After all pieces are cut, it’s time to glue everything together. David uses tape to hold the pieces in place while the glue dries, ensuring a strong bond. He fills any gaps with sawdust and glue mixture for a seamless finish.
Step 7: Sand and Finish
Once the glue is dry, David sands the entire piece to smooth out any rough edges. He applies a finish to enhance the wood’s natural beauty and protect it from wear.
Final Thoughts
The final product is a beautiful and functional book stand that not only keeps books in place but also has a dedicated spot for pens and glasses. David encourages viewers to explore their scrap wood piles and create simple projects that are both practical and enjoyable.
With this guide, anyone can create their own book stand from scraps.