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Built-In Bookcases

Room by Room : Episode RXR-2108 -- More Projects »
Photo
 Media
Video: Watch as Matt Fox describes how to make your own built-in bookcases.
Materials:

3/4" paint-grade plywood
2x4 lumber
1x12 poplar lumber
1x2 poplar trim
toggle bolts
circular saw
plywood panel blade
decorative trim
level
miter saw
carpenter's square
nail gun (or finish nails and hammer)

Steps:

Note: Since each room is different, specific dimensions are not available for this project.

PHOTO

Figure A
1. The main cabinet at the bottom is constructed out of 3/4-inch plywood and 2x4s. Construct a 2x4 frame (figure A) all the way across the wall first and secure it to the wall with toggle bolts. This frame is the starting point for the entire structure.
2. Secure plywood across the front of the frame (use a plywood panel blade in a circular saw for a smooth cut without a lot of tear out). To cut the plywood, lay it on top of four, eight-foot long 2x4s and use a 1x4 clamped in position as a guide to ensure a straight cut. Make sure that the shoe of the saw rests against the guide as you make your cut along the board. Also make sure that the blade is set no deeper than 3/4 inch below the plywood so that the blade will not cut into the floor.
PHOTO

Figure B
3. Boxes made out of decorative trim help make the cabinet look professionally finished. Draw the layout of the boxes on the plywood front using a square and level. Cut the trim to length using a miter saw (most will be 45-degree angles). Attach the trim pieces to the plywood using a nail gun or finish nails (figure B).
4. All of the shelves are constructed of poplar (since both sides will show). The shelf unit consists of two side pieces and three shelves (the placement of each shelf will be determined by the size of your room). Trim the side pieces and front of each shelf with 1x2 poplar using finish nails. This hides the edge of the shelf unit and gives the piece more depth.

paint for the bookcase center (SW1117 Sesame) (Sherwin-Williams)

Resources
paint — Sherwin-Williams
Website: www.sherwin-williams.com
Also in this Episode
Room by Room : Episode RXR-2108
•A Room to Relax In
•Staining Furniture Yourself
•Painting: Aged Leather Technique
•Built-In Bookcases
•Simple Topper
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