How to build a bookshelf: How to build a simple bookshelf step by step

Books are similiar to babies in every book lover's opinion. They not only need to be handled carefully, but also well looked after. Build your lovely book a beautiful home yourself. In 5 easy steps build your own bookshelf.

Books are very fragile because they are made of organic materials and are prone to tear and wear when is mishandled. Having a bookshelf is the perfect way to get your books organized and building one yourself is a plus.

Even though the surge of digital formats and eBooks is steadily picking pace. Some book lovers still like the feel of a physical book in your hands when reading.

Bookshelves are not just for aesthetic purposes even though it does adds a touch to a rooms overall look. There are very important pieces to any book collector’s collection.

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Tips on proper care for your books on the bookshelf:

• Do not pack books too closely or tightly on bookshelves. This makes it difficult to take them off. And prying hard might cause damage to books.
• Make sure there aren’t large spaces between the books. This would cause the books to lean against each other, placing stress on them which can cause deformation.
• Leave some space in front and behind the books. Leaving space in front would prevent people or items from knocking the books off the shelves. Allow air circulation behind the books and the wall/wood to prevent mold growth.
• You can make use of bookends to keep them vertical and upright.
• Period cleaning especially dusting is encouraged. Especially to prevent foxing which is caused by dust.
• For antique and more valuable books, glass doors are recommended to create a dust free interior.

COST FOR BUILDING A SIMPLE BOOKSHELF STEP BY STEP

If you are looking to build a bookshelf by yourself, it should cost you less than 100 cedis for supplies excluding the workmanship.

DURATION FOR BUILDING A SIMPLE BOOKSHELF STEP BY STEP

Building a bookshelf should not take more than 24 hours (with distractions in between)

TOOLS NEEDED FOR BUILDING A SIMPLE BOOKSHELF STEP BY STEP

• Drill
• Circular saw
• Measuring tape
• Sandpaper
• Pencil
• Krieg jig

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SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR BUILDING A SIMPLE BOOKSHELF STEP BY STEP

• Wood glue
• Small finish nails
• Primer
• 1 ¼ inch screw nails
• 2 (1 X 12) 8 feet long boards
• 1 (1 X 3) 8 feet long boards
• 1 sheet of ¼ inch backing 24inches X 48inches

Build a simple bookshelf in 5 easy steps.

STEPS FOR BUILDING A SIMPLE BOOKSHELF STEP BY STEP

Sand paper and prim your wood before you begin. This will give it a clean smooth finish.

• Step 1

 

Begin by cutting measurements for the top and sides of the bookshelf. Cut these 3 pieces from one of the (1 X 12) 8feet board. The measurements needed are 2 pieces of 33 ½inches (sides) and 1piece of 24inches (top).

•  Step 2

 

Using the drill, drill pocket holes into the top of your side boards (both of them). Clump them to whilst drilling to give clean holes. Make sure your clump doesn’t dent your wood. You can do this by using a piece of wafer board on the bottom of the jig. Make a total of four holes, two pairs adjacent to each other at one end.

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• Step 3

 

Use wood glue and screws to attach the top to the sides.

• Step 4

 

Cut out your shelves from the other (1 X 2) 8feet long board. This would give you three pieces at 22 ½ inches. Using the same drill process make pockets holes on both ends of the boards. Each board should have a total of eight holes (i.e. 4 pairs).

• Step 5

 

Measure 9 ½ inches along the sides of the shelf (this is the distance between the shelves). Mark the place by drawing a line to indicate length. Place the shelf on the line, apply a little glue to hold. And screw to shelf into place. Do same to other two shelves.

Voila! Your books now have their own home.

Books are similiar to babies in every book lover's opinion. They not only need to be handled carefully, but also well looked after. Build your lovely book a beautiful home yourself. In 5 easy steps build your own bookshelf. Read Full Story