DIY Plans to Build a Reclaimed Bookcase Divider

An Easy to Build Triple-Duty Bookcase

This bookcase, as easy to build as it is, does triple duty… Not only is it a bookcase open on both sides, but it can be a room divider and has storage! The DIY plans to build a Reclaimed Bookcase Divider feature three bins on the bottom, divided shelves, and full face frames on each side of the bookcase.This bookcase is an economical build, too, using the most of each sheet of plywood with little waste!

Materials:

• 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws (<– affiliate link!)
• 1-1/4″ brad nails
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (100, 150, 220 grits)
• Finishing supplies (primer & paint, or stain, sealer)
• Paste wax

Lumber:

• 8 – 1×2 at 8′
• 2 – 4′ x 8′ sheets of 3/4″ plywood

Cut List:

• 2 – 3/4″ plywood at 11-7/8″ x 73-3/4″ – Bookcase Sides
• 5 – 3/4″ plywood at 11-7/8″ x 47-1/4″ – Bookcase Shelves
• 6 – 3/4″ plywood at 11-7/8″ x 19″ – Dividers
• 2 – 3/4″ plywood at 11-7/8″ x 12-1/4″ – Dividers
• 12 – 1×2 at 18-1/4″ – Face Frames
• 4 – 1×2 at 11-1/2″ – Face Frames
• 10 – 1×2 at 45-3/4″ – Face Frames
• 4 – 1×2 at 73-3/4″ – Face Frames
• 3 – 3/4″ plywood at 12-1/2″ x 11-7/8″ – Bin Bottoms
• 6 – 3/4″ plywood at 11-3/8″ x 11-7/8″ – Bin Sides
• 6 – 3/4″ plywood at 11-3/8″ x 14″ – Bin Front & Back

Click on the drawings for a larger view!

Step One

Cut the pieces for the sides and shelves. With the pocket hole jig set for 3/4″ material, drill pocket holes in each end of the shelf pieces. Secure the shelves to the sides using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws. Note that the bottom shelf will be located 3/4″ up from the bottom edge of the sides.

Step Two

Cut the pieces for the dividers and drill pocket holes in each end. Secure the dividers to the shelves using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws.

Step Three

Cut the pieces for the face frames. Drill pocket holes in each end of each piece except for the longest side pieces. Assemble the frames as shown using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws.

Position the face frames on each side of the bookcase. The vertical framing pieces will be centered on the dividers while the horizontal pieces will be flush with the top face of the shelves. The outer edges of the frames will be flush with the outer faces of the bookcase. Secure the frames in place using glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails.

Step Four

Cut the pieces for the bins. Cut the notches in the front and back pieces using a jigsaw. Secure the sides to the bottom first, using glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails, then secure the front and back.

Finish as desired. Apply a coat of paste wax to the bottom of the bins to allow them to slide smoothly in the openings.

This bookcase would be a great way to separate two spaces yet keep everything organized and in easy reach! Have any questions about the DIY plans to build a Reclaimed Bookcase Divider? Leave a comment below!