Looking for extra space without the price of the costly furniture? The first step is to learn how to build a simple wooden bookshelf. Requires minimal tools, simple cuts and approximately one weekend of work.
This guide will walk you through you can do it all yourself. A tools list, a cut list, clear steps and finishing tips will be provided. Written for beginners, but suitable to any who wishes to have a firm, handsome shelf.
Why Build Your Own Bookshelf
A handmade unit will be less costly than a manufactured solid wood unit. You can also control the size. It can be installed in a narrow wall, children’s room or a corner of the home office.
It’s a great first project too! The basics of woodworking such as straight cuts, pilot holes, screws and sanding are included. Make cabinets, benches, storage boxes and more, if you can make a basic wooden bookshelf.
Wooden shelves also can be easily repaired. If the board is scratched and/or a screw is loose, the board can be adjusted without having to replace the entire board.
Tools and Materials You Need
Collect all of the items before beginning. When you’re ready, you’re better able to build a simple wooden bookshelf.
- Pine boards (1×10) for the sides and shelves
- A saw, tape measure and square
- Wood glue and 1¼-inch wood screws
- A drill and drill bits
- A plywood back panel, attached with small brad nails or short screws
- Sandpaper in 120 and 180 grit
- Paint, stain or a clear finish, with a brush
- Wall anchors or brackets to stop the shelf from tipping
Pine is easily accessible and affordable, and is relatively easy to slice. Oak is a beautiful wood, but not the easiest to work with, and it’s more expensive than other options.
Plan Your Simple Wooden Bookshelf
The most important initial task for making a simple wood bookshelf is to make a plan. It’s much simpler to make a mistake on paper than in wood.
This plan will make a bookshelf that is about 9¼ inches deep, 30 inches wide and 36 inches high. There are 4 shelves. This size is ideal for paperbacks, lots of hardcovers and tiny decor.
To obtain a different size, alter the side elevation and length of the shelves. Keep in mind that each shelf will be located between the two sides and the width of the shelf will be half of the total width.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Do the following steps sequentially. Take time to work slowly – double check measurements.
- Cut the boards. Use squares to mark each piece with a measurement. Make cuts on the “waste” side of the line to keep the board the correct length. Make sure these ends are square – otherwise the shelf will wobble.
- Sand every piece. Sand all faces and edges with 120 and 180 grit sanding. Sanding will be easier prior to assembly when all surfaces can be reached.
- Mark the positions of the shelves. Lay the two faces in apposition (flat). Take measurements from the bottom edge and write down the location of the bottom of each shelf. The good measurement of layout is at 3, 14, 25 and 35¼ inches. The top shelf is leveled off with the top of the sides with the last mark. This will leave roughly 10″ spaces between books.
- Drill pilot holes. Create 2 or 3 hole(s) into each side at each shelf mark. Pilot holes prevent splitting particularly at the ends of the board. If desired, the screw heads will be below the surface, use a countersink bit.
- Stick and attach the frame with glue and screws. Squeeze a streak of thin wood glue on the end of a shelf. Attach it to the side at your mark, square it and drive the screws in. Repeat shelf and glue the other side to it. Dampen with a cloth to wipe away excess glue right away.
- Be sure the frame is square. Take the diagonal measurement from one corner to the opposite corner and then measure the other diagonal measurement from one corner to the opposite corner. If they both are the same, the frame is square. Otherwise, just make a slight adjustment before the glue has hardened.
- Glue the back panel on. Turn the shelf upside down and place the plywood on the shelf. Line up the sides and secure with a few small nails or short screws every 6 inches. The back panel helps to prevent the frame from racking and reinforces the frame.
- Fill and touch up. Fill and paint out screw holes and gaps with wood filler. Allow to dry, and then sand lightly the spots.
Finishing and Securing Your Bookshelf
Finish is important to keep the wood safe and gives a professional look to the shelf. It also bars dust and moisture from penetrating under the bare pine.
For a natural wood grain, a clear finish or wood stain is recommended. The pre-stain wood conditioner helps minimize this blotched stained appearance of pine. If using a modern look, select a primer and two light coats of paint.
Please always refer to the product label for drying time and ventilation. Smooth with fine sandpaper between coatings to get a smooth finish. Wait for finish to set before shelving books.
For stain or paint choices, see our guide to the best wood finishes for furniture.
Secure It to the Wall
Children and pets are at risk of a tipped over tall bookshelf if it’s not secured. Use anti-tip brackets or wall anchors to attach the top of the shelf to the wall. Try to screw in to a wall stud if possible.
You might want to use heavier books towards the bottom. This helps to maintain a low center of weight and puts less strain on the upper boards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Most of the beginner questions can be attributed to certain common errors. Just avoid them and you’ll experience results in no time.
- Skipping pilot holes. This can divide the board particularly at the ends.
- Cutting without square. This limping has the effect of making cuts sum up and gaps.
- Using warped boards. Look at each board, sighting down the edge before purchasing.
- Rushing the glue-up. Clamp, square and drive the screws.
- Can’t remember the back panel. Otherwise it may bend with time.
- Improperly anchoring of the shelf. Tighten up any tall furniture to the wall.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Shelf
After understanding the basics of how to construct a simple wooden bookshelf, it can become your own by making a few simple changes.
- Add a base or feet. This is to lift the shelf from the ground either by a small plinth or by short legs.
- Add a front rail. A narrow shelf at the front of a wide shelf will help prevent sagging due to a heavy book stack.
- Use adjustable shelves. Drill series of holes on each side and install shelf pins; don’t use permanent screws.
- Change the proportions. Scale down for children’s bedroom or scale up for couch.
- Try different colors. To contrast, paint the outside with a colour and the back panel with another colour.
Keep in mind that over time, heavy books will cause longer shelves to bend. Install a centre support or front rail for widths over 32″ – 36″.
More Simple Projects to Try
The instructions for how to create a simple wooden bookshelf can be used for a host of other projects. All use similar measuring, cutting, sanding and joining processes. Planning a bigger project at home? Start with our home renovation checklist.
- A small plant shelf in the shape of a ladder.
- Organizer Cubes for Toys or Crafts.
- A floating shelf which is mounted to the wall.
- Next to the front door, you can find a shoe rack.
- An open shelving simple bedside table
Work up from the simplest project to the more challenging.
Final Thought
You’re now equipped with the knowledge of how to create a basic wooden bookshelf from beginning to end. Measure, cut and sand pieces if necessary before assembly, glue and screw to create a sturdy frame. Attach a back panel, complete the woodwork and attach the shelf to the wall.
The project is on a small scale, the lessons are large. Each cut and each joint is followed by skills that can be applied to your next cut or joint. Select boards, clear a space and begin creating! The easiest way to learn how to construct a simple wooden bookshelf is to create one.
FAQs
Can a beginner build a simple wooden bookshelf?
Yes. The basic bookshelf is made up of straight cuts and simple screw joints. If you have the proper measuring, drill and saw, most beginners can do one in a weekend.
What wood is best for a simple wooden bookshelf?
Pine is the most popular option for novice players. It is cheap and it’s easy to cut and it’s light. Plywood or hardwoods like oak or maple also can be used, but are typically more expensive.
How can I make the bookshelf stronger?
Strength is related to the wood, length of shelf and type of joints used. The glue, screws and back panel greatly increase the strength. Using a heavy object go back to the lower shelves; use a front rail on wide shelves.
How long does it take to build?
Beginners will require more time for sanding and finishing, while it will take a few hours to be cutting and assembly. Always check on the label for drying times of paint/stain.
Do I need power tools?
No, but it does save time! A hand saw and hand drill and sand paper can be used to teach the basic construction of a wooden bookshelf. A circular saw and electric drill just help to get it done faster and easier.
