This project was built and designed by Alex from Bevelish Creations. It’s a creative and functional floating shelf inspired by the Deathly Hallows symbol—perfect for displaying books, wands, and collectibles.
Using offcuts and epoxy resin, Alex combines woodworking techniques with pop culture themes to produce a visually striking piece. The result is a shelf that not only reflects the spirit of the Harry Potter universe but also serves as a practical storage and display solution.
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Using Offcuts for Something Special
The shelf is constructed from walnut live-edge offcuts and sapwood—materials that might typically be discarded in larger projects. Alex shows how these pieces can be repurposed into something unique and high-end with just a bit of extra care.
After removing loose bark and debris, the boards are jointed and planed to flatten the surfaces. This preparation ensures clean edges and a strong bond when assembling the triangular shape.
Adding Character with Epoxy Resin
To bring cohesion to the mixed wood pieces, Alex uses epoxy resin to fill the gaps between them. He chooses pigments that represent Hogwarts house colors—green, gold, and silver—to create vibrant contrast inside each board.
The resin is poured into MDF forms sealed with tape and silicone to avoid leaks. Once cured, the boards are cleaned up with a planer to remove any uneven surfaces and reveal the bold colors locked in the epoxy lines.
Building the Circle for the Symbol
A router and circle-cutting jig are used to make two identical MDF rings. These are glued together to add thickness and trimmed flush to ensure accuracy.
Initially, the ring’s size felt off, so Alex reduces its thickness to better match the scale of the triangle. This change gives the piece a more balanced appearance and highlights the circular portion of the Deathly Hallows without overpowering the rest.
Forming the Triangle Frame
The triangle is made by mitering the board ends to 30 degrees, forming 60-degree corners when assembled. These precise angles are cut using a custom jig on the table saw to hold each piece vertically and maintain safety and accuracy.
The triangle’s edges are lightly beveled to soften the appearance and give the frame added dimension. Clamping blocks are used during glue-up to apply even pressure across the miters, producing tight joints.
Assembling the Vertical Wand Section
To represent the wand in the Deathly Hallows symbol, a vertical board is installed using cross-lap joints. These joints are cut by hand due to the board’s length and the angle required—highlighting Alex’s flexibility when machine cuts aren’t practical.
The vertical piece is designed to hold the first four Harry Potter books. Its angled shape creates a bookend-like effect that doubles as a visual centerpiece and storage feature.
Final Sanding, Paint, and Finish
Each component is sanded thoroughly to achieve a smooth surface. Painter’s tape protects the glue areas from overspray and finish contamination.
Alex applies a rich oil finish to the walnut and epoxy to bring out the grain and deepen the color contrasts. The MDF ring is spray-painted for a sleek, modern contrast against the natural wood.
Final Assembly and Mounting
Once all finishes are dry, the parts are glued together, completing the Deathly Hallows shape. The structure is sturdy, symmetrical, and full of personality—ready to be mounted as a floating shelf.
The completed piece offers both form and function. It proudly displays books and collectibles while serving as a tribute to the Harry Potter series in a subtle, elegant way.
What Makes This Project Stand Out
This shelf combines woodworking precision with artistic inspiration. The use of offcuts keeps costs low while adding visual interest with irregular grain and color. Resin inlays bring color and symbolism, while the layout stays true to the Deathly Hallows design.
Alex’s project is also a great example of problem-solving in the shop. From adjusting proportions to finding safe ways to make angled cuts, the build showcases creative thinking throughout.
Tips for Similar Builds
- Use painter’s tape to protect glue surfaces before applying finishes.
- Keep MDF forms simple and well-sealed for epoxy pours.
- Plan proportions carefully—adjustments mid-project can make a big difference in appearance.
- Cross-lap joints are a strong option for vertical connections and work well with hand tools.
- Combine practical joinery with symbolic shapes for personal, display-worthy pieces.
Learn more about this project here: https://www.bevelishcreations.com/projects/harry-potter-shelf/.