How to Build a Bookshelf

Expert carpenter Gary Katz demonstrates techniques at trade shows and lumberyards across the country and writes how-to articles. Follow his tips for building a bookcase, and you’ll have an heirloom that your family can enjoy at the cabin for years to come.

  - If you want to stain the finished bookcase, use ¾-inch hardwood-veneer plywood. If you intend to paint, use birch-veneer plywood.

  - For paint-grade plywood, hide edge grain with poplar stiles, rails and nosings. To match stain-grade plywood veneer, use hardwood stiles, rails and nosings.

  - Make shelves permanent; don’t bother with adjustable shelves.

  - Accommodate most books by making shelves 10-½ inches high and 9-½ deep.

  - Shelves that are 12 inches high will keep your magazine issues off the floor.

  - Coffee table or art books require 14-inch-high shelves.

  - Fasten 32-inch-wide modular units together on site.

For more info, check out For Pros by Pros: Built-Ins and Storage.

OakBridge Timber Framing