This simple but functional book shelf is easy to build and makes a great
confidence builder before moving on to a more complex project. The shelf in
this photo is made from clear spruce but any species of wood will work. The
simple dado joinery is easily made using a router with a straight cutting bit.
The overall dimensions of this book shelf are 66” x 36” x 8-1/2”
 Cut List
Part A & B: 4 @ 66” x 8-1/2” x 1-1/4”
Part C: 6 @ 9-7/8” x 8-1/2” x 1-1/4”
Part D: 1 @ 52” x 3” x 1-1/4”
Part E: 2 @ 7” x 3” x 1-1/4”
Materials List
2 @ 12’ x 10” x 2”
1 @ 8’ x 10” x 2”
1 @ 8’ x 4” x 2”
This book shelf is simple to make and can be completed in a day with a
second day to apply a finish. This shelf is made from 2” x 10” spruce that is
planned to 1-1/4” thick and ripped to 8-1/2” wide.
Shelves – Part A & B:
The four shelves receive dados to accept the vertical members. These dados
are ¼” deep and 1-1/4” wide with the outside cheeks 7” from each end.
These dados can be milled a number of ways, in this case a router with a
straight cutting bit was used. However, a stacked dado blade can be used
with a radial arm saw to make them as well.
It is recommended that you have the finished width of the vertical members
established before milling the dados to ensure a tight fit.
Vertical Members – Part C:
There are 6 vertical members that determine the height of each shelf. With
this plan the shelves are all evenly spaced but the height of each shelf can be
adjusted to fit you specific needs. The dimensions of the vertical members
are 9-7/8” x 8-1/2” x 1-1/4” and accounts for the dado at the top and bottom.
The corners can be rounded or chamfered after the book case is assembled. Base – Part D & E:
The base wraps three sides of the book shelf with the back being left open.
The base is 3” high and is mitered at the corners. It can be attached by
drilling a ¾” countersink and driving a 3” screw into the bottom of the first
shelf.
On the two side pieces attach at each end and with the front attach at each
end plus once in the center.
The miters can be reinforced with biscuits.
Finish:
After final sanding finish with 3 coats of polyurethane, sanding between coats. |
