This project was built and designed by Jason from PatriotDIY. It’s a multifunctional piece of furniture that combines a sturdy bookshelf with a cozy reading nook, helping organize a child’s space while encouraging a love of books.
The design blends practical storage with comfort, making it ideal for bedrooms, playrooms, or homeschool setups. Jason walks through each step in his detailed build, offering tips that make this project accessible for most intermediate woodworkers.
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Why Combine Storage With a Reading Spot?
This project isn’t just about building shelves—it’s about creating a dedicated space for learning and imagination. By combining open cubbies with a built-in seat, the unit gives kids a place to sit and read while keeping books, toys, and supplies neatly organized.
Jason’s version allows for full customization based on room size, storage needs, or design preferences. Whether you’re tight on space or just want a single furniture piece to serve multiple functions, this bookshelf offers a creative solution.
Materials and Tools to Consider
Jason doesn’t list out exact cut dimensions in the video, but he emphasizes using quality materials that can handle daily wear and tear. A combination of hardwood and plywood works well, with hardwood for framing and plywood for internal dividers and shelves.
Tools used in this build include a track saw or table saw, a pocket hole jig, drill, sander, brad nailer, and paint sprayer. A miter saw or circular saw may also be helpful for trimming smaller parts or adding angled cuts to trim pieces.
Cutting and Prepping Components
The build begins by cutting down all the major components: sides, top, bottom, seat, dividers, and back. A track saw helps make clean, accurate cuts for large panels, while the table saw is ideal for trimming shelf widths and support pieces.
Each cut is measured for a tight fit. This keeps the bookshelf square and prevents gaps from forming during assembly. Getting the structure right from the beginning saves time when aligning shelves and attaching panels later.
Drilling Pocket Holes and Prepping for Paint
Jason drills pocket holes in nearly every piece except the two side panels. Pocket hole joinery keeps fasteners hidden and helps with alignment during glue-ups.
Before putting anything together, each board is sanded smooth. Jason recommends painting before assembly—especially for the interior panels—since it’s much easier than trying to paint around shelves and corners later.
A paint sprayer is used to apply a consistent base coat. It not only speeds things up but also produces a professional-looking finish with minimal brush marks.
Assembling the Cubbies
The first part of assembly involves building the base with integrated cubbies. Jason marks the locations of each vertical support and attaches them using pocket screws and glue.
Once the bottom section is done, the side panels are added. This begins to form the main structure of the piece and provides a foundation for the bookshelf and seat area above.
Building the Bookshelf
Next, Jason constructs the upper shelf section using the same techniques. Spacers are used between shelves to keep everything even, and clamps help hold pieces in place while screws are driven in.
This section adds vertical storage for books or toys and increases the overall height and function of the piece. The design is kept symmetrical, but it could be modified easily if more or fewer shelves are needed.
Adding the Face Frame
To hide the raw plywood edges and give the project a clean finish, Jason adds a face frame around the front edges. This step is mostly cosmetic but makes a big difference in appearance.
The face frame is attached with glue and brad nails, and once installed, it hides the joinery while giving the entire bookshelf a more refined look.
Installing the Back Panel
A back panel is then secured to the rear of the unit. This provides rigidity to prevent racking and keeps books or bins from sliding out the back.
Jason marks out where the shelves and seat will land before attaching the back. This ensures all panels line up properly and keeps the build square during final assembly.
Finishing and Protection
After final assembly, nail holes are filled with wood filler and sanded smooth. A couple of coats of water-based polyurethane add durability and protect the surface from scratches or spills.
The clear coat also enhances the color of the paint while providing an easy-to-clean surface—ideal for anything that’s going into a kid’s space.
A Cozy and Organized Corner
To finish it off, storage bins can be added to the cubbies to help kids sort their belongings. Jason suggests adding a cushion to the seat area to make it more inviting for reading or quiet time.
This final step turns the bookshelf into more than just storage—it becomes a little corner where kids can read, play, and relax.
Please support Jason by visiting his Etsy Store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/patriotdiy.