How to build a rustic wood bookshelf. Free plans, shopping list, cut list and real photos to help you build your own bookshelf.
Today is Make a Beautiful Bookshelf Day.
Preparation
1 - 4 feet long 1x12
2 - 8 feet long 1x12
2 - 8 feet long 1x2
2 - 8 feet long 1x3
4 - 8 feet long 2x2
planking for back
2 - 1x12 @ 60 3/4" (sides)
4 - 1x2 @ 11 1/4" (side trim)
4 - 2x2 @ 62 3/4" (legs)
4 - 2x2 @ 21 1/2" (top supports and bottom shelf trim)
4 - 1x12 @ 21 1/2" (shelves)
6 - 1x2 @ 21 1/2" (shelf trim)
6 - 1x3 @ 26" (top)
7 - 3 1/2" wide planking or 1x4s @ 60" long (back)
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1
Start by drilling 3/4" pocket holes along side edges of the sides. You may also wish to drill holes along top edge for attaching top. Then add the side trim to the outsides.
NOTE: If you don't have a pocket hole jig, you can still build this plan. You will need to carefully predrill holes and use 2 3/4" trim screws to attach legs in next step.
Step 2
Add the legs ...
Step 3
And the top supports.
Step 4
Build your bottom shelf first (see next step) and then attach to bottom.
Step 5
Step 6
And insert into the bookshelf. I recommend having fixed shelves in this project to give you something to attach the back planking to.
Step 7
Build top first with 3/4" pocket holes and attach to top.
NOTE: If you do not have a pocket hole jig, cut 3 2x2s 11 1/4" long and screw between top supports. Then use these supports to attach top planking to.
Step 8
Finally add the back. To conserve costs, try adding planking or tongue and groove to back, but you can always use 1x4s.
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
We apologize if there was an error in this plan. Please help us out and report any errors here.
Comments
dbroersma
Fri, 01/12/2018 - 06:27
Question about Holes on Side
This looks awesome and I'm hoping to learn more about woodworking. This plans seems simple but I had a question about the pocket holes on the sides of the shelves. Why do we need to drill so many if we are only putting four shelves. The only reason I can come up with would be if I wanted to have moveable shelves? I'm not sure. Thanks!
In reply to Question about Holes on Side by dbroersma
yummybear
Tue, 07/02/2019 - 08:21
You're only drilling 2…
You're only drilling 2 pocket holes on each side of each shelf. The other pocket holes are for attaching the legs to the 1x12.
mhellis6
Sun, 06/28/2020 - 08:23
Lots of questions
Hello. I am wondering if I can make this without the legs and trim. Can I just make my bottom shelf higher so the side piece is its own leg? And can the top attached directly to the side piece? Sorry for all the questions. It's my first project.