DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase

A Unique Bookcase Perfect for Any Space

This is a really neat bookcase that would work in any space. I can see it built as a pair flanking a regular bookcase – they would resemble bookends! At any rate, the DIY plans to build a Henry Bookcase are really easy, quick, and quite inexpensive thanks to the use of straight off-the-shelf lumber. This bookcase is also a project that is suitable for those new to woodworking!

DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Copy

DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Copy 2

Materials:

  • 2-1/2″ screws (<– affiliate link!)
  • Drill with a countersink bit
  • Wood glue
  • Sandpaper (100, 150, 220 grits)
  • Finishing supplies (primer & paint, or stain, sealer)

Lumber:

  • 2 – 1×4 at 6′
  • 2 – 1×12 at 8′
  • Scraps of 2×3

Cut List:

  • 2 – 1×12 at 48″ – Back & Bottom
  • 2 – 1×4 at 67-3/8″ – Side Braces
  • 1 – 1×12 (ripped to 9-3/4″ wide) at 39″ – Shelf 1
  • 1 – 1×12 (ripped to 9-3/4″ wide) at 27″ – Shelf 2
  • 1 – 1×12 (ripped to 9-3/4″ wide) at 15″ – Shelf 3
  • 4 – 2×3 at 3-1/2″ – Feet

DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase

Click on the drawings for a larger view!

Step One

Cut the pieces for the back and bottom. Drill holes for countersunk screws in the back piece for the shelves and the braces as shown in the drawing. Drill holes for countersunk screws in the bottom piece for the back and braces as shown in the drawing. The horizontal spacing for the holes in the bottom are the same as for the back. Secure the back to the bottom using glue and countersunk 2-1/2″ screws.

DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Back & Bottom 1

DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Back & Bottom 2

Step Two

Cut the pieces for the braces and cut a 45° miter in each end. Secure the braces to the back and the bottom using glue and countersunk 2-1/2″ screws.

DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Braces

Step Three

Cut the pieces for the shelves. Starting with the lowest shelf and working up, secure the shelf to the back using glue and countersunk 2-1/2″ screws. Place a level on the shelf, and mark the position of the holes for the countersunk screws in the side braces. Drill the holes and secure the shelves to the braces using glue and countersunk 2-1/2″ screws.

DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Shelf 1 DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Shelf 2 DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Shelf 3

Step Four

Cut the pieces for the feet. Lay the bookcase on its side, and mark the position for the feet. Secure to the bottom using glue and countersunk 2-1/2″ screws through the bottom into the feet.

DIY Plans to Build a Henry Bookcase_Feet

Finish as desired!

The shelf is very versatile and can be used in so many rooms such as the bathroom to hold clean towels and toiletries, in a kid’s room to hold books and toys, in a family room to hold movies or CDs, or in a mudroom to hold bags, umbrellas, and boots! Have any questions about the DIY plans to build a Henry Bookcase? Leave a comment below or contact me at cher {at} designsbystudioc {dot} com!

Originally posted 2014-09-22 08:00:08.

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