Small Ladder Bookshelf

pottery barn kids inspired bookrack free plans
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Difficulty
Intermediate
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Build your own Pottery Barn Kids-inspired small ladder bookshelf with our free plans! This budget-friendly DIY project is perfect for storing books, toys, or decor in a kid’s room, playroom, or nursery. Designed to look like high-end furniture but easy enough for beginners to build with just a few tools. Includes step-by-step diagrams, cut list, shopping list, and a full video tutorial.

This sturdy ladder bookshelf is easy to build and costs about $25 in wood - or if you have scraps, might even be free.

​The Small Ladder Bookshelf is a versatile and stylish storage solution that you can build yourself. This sturdy ladder bookshelf is easy to build and costs about $25 in wood—or if you have scraps, might even be free. ​Ana White

Features:

  • Tiered Shelves: The design includes tiered shelves, perfect for storing different-sized items. ​Ana White

  • Enclosed Bins: The enclosed bins help keep your items securely in place. ​Ana White

  • Multi-Purpose Use: Ideal for various spaces such as craft rooms, entryways, kitchens, or as a nightstand for children's books. ​Ana White

Free Plans Include:

  • Video Tutorial: A step-by-step video guide to assist you through the building process. ​

  • Detailed Diagrams: Comprehensive diagrams to ensure accurate construction. ​Ana White

  • Cut and Shopping Lists: Precise measurements and a complete list of materials needed. ​

This project is beginner-friendly and can be completed with basic tools. Building your own ladder bookshelf not only saves money but also allows you to customize the finish to match your décor. For inspiration, check out numerous reader-submitted photos showcasing their completed ladder bookshelves. ​

We are excited to share with you the plans below.  We go through all the build steps in this video 

 

Dimensions
ladder bookshelf free plans small pottery barn kids diagram
Dimensions shown above

Preparation

Shopping List
  • 1x4 - 12 board feet
  • 1x6 - 8 board feet
  • 1x2 - 16 board feet
  • 1/4" plywood panel - 24" x 48"
Common Materials
Cut List
  • 4 - 1x4 @ 22-1/2"
  • 2 - 1x4 @ 9"
  • 2 - 1x4 @ 11"
  • 2 - 1x6 @ 22-1/2"
  • 2 - 1x6 @ 13-1/2"
  • 1 - 1/4" plywood 24" x 9"
  • 1 - 1/4" plywood 24" x 11"
  • 1 - 1/4" plywood 24" x 13-1/2"
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 30"
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 30-1/2" - both ends cut at 10 degrees off square, long point to short point measurement, ends ARE parallel
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 9-1/2" - one end cut at 10 degrees off square, longest point measurement
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 5-1/2" - one end cut at 10 degrees off square, longest point measurement
Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Kreg Jig
Drill
Circular Saw
Jigsaw
Miter Saw
Brad Nailer
Power Sander

Instructions

Step 1

Build the three trays using 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.  Attach 1/4" plywood bottoms to bottom of trays with glue and 3/4" nails or staples.

Step 2

Build legs with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.  Remember to build and drill pocket holes in mirror so the pocket holes can be hidden on insides of legs. Mark location of shelves with a square on inside of legs. Attach with 1-1/4" screws (you can use pocket hole screws).

Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
fill any exposed nail holes with wood filler and let dry. Then sand in the direction of the wood grain using medium grit sandpaper. Remove all sanding residue with a vacuum and then a damp, tack free cloth. Apply a primer coat using a cabinet foam roller and a foam applicator for inside corners.
Finish Used
Apply a furniture or cabinet grade paint with a foam roller and applicator, up to 4 coats if necessary, until the finish is consistent.

Comments

MCN

Mon, 06/17/2019 - 08:27

My skill level is not yet intermediate, but after watching the video and reading the plans, I thought this was a project I could handle.  There are a few places where I got hung up - the biggest being that the illustrations do not match the finished product or the video.   One of the pictures shows the sides of the trays on the outside of the fronts, but your finished nightstand and another illustration show the sides tucked into the fronts.  This obviously changes the size of the plywood bottoms, as well as where the pocket holes should be placed (short or long side of trays) I found some of the other instructions a bit vague as well but that could be because of my skill level.  Thank you for the free plans!  

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!