Bookcases

1" x 12" poplar pieces
1" x 4" pieces (optional)
stain
circular saw
large rafter square
measuring tape
router with 3/4" straight bit
drill
wood glue
finish nails
hammer
luan plywood
small wire brads
polyurethane

Steps:

1. The boxes are 12 inches deep and 18 inches square. Cut the top and bottom boards with a circular saw to the 18-inch measurement using a rafter square for a straight cut.

2. Cut the sides to 16-1/2 inches in length (this is determined by the thickness of the top and bottom boards, which is 1-1/2 inches, subtracted from 18).

3. For the boxes with a shelf, cut a dado (groove) in the two sidepieces using a router with a straight bit. If you don't have a router, attach the shelf from the side and eliminate the dado. Cut the shelf accordingly.

4. Before attaching the pieces together, rout a rabbit groove along the edge of all the boards to allow the back panel to be recessed and the edge of the backboard hidden. This isn't necessary and the panel can be attached directly to the back.

5. Drill pilot holes to put the box together. Then use wood glue and finish nails to attach the pieces. Slide the shelf in place if there's a dado or nail it from the sides.

6. Make sure the box is square before cutting the back piece. Measure from one corner diagonally over to the other and repeat on the opposite corners (the measurement should be the same). If not, adjust the box until it is.

7. Put the box on a sheet of luan plywood and trace around it to make the back . Cut out the square and attach it from behind using small wire brads.

8. Stain the boxes as desired. Once dry, use polyurethane for durability and protection .

9. If desired, build a base out of 1" x 4"s so that the bottom boxes aren't directly on the floor. Once the base is down, arrange the boxes anyway you like.