DIY Plans for the Cutaway Shelving Unit

A Quick and Easy Project!

Hey there! This shelving unit is a super simple and fun project that you can make using regular lumber you can find at any store. The DIY plans for the Cutaway shelving unit involve using glue and brad nails, but if you prefer, you can also use pocket holes. The best part is that you can add casters to the base frame, making it easy to move around wherever you want!

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)

Lumber:

• 2 – 1×2 at 8′
• 2 – 1×6 at 8′
• 7 – 1×12 at 8′

Cut List:

• 12 – 1×12 at 15″ – Shelf Supports
• 12 – 1×6 at 15″ – Shelf Supports
• 5 – 1×12 at 87″ – Shelves
• 2 – 1×2 at 81″ – Base Frame
• 3 – 1×2 at 6-1/4″ – Base Frame

Step One

Cut the pieces for the shelf supports. The pieces will be assembled in an “L” shape using one 1×12 piece and one 1×6 piece. Secure the pieces together using glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails.

Step Two

Cut the pieces for the shelves. There will be two shelves with the supports facing one way, and two shelves will the supports facing the opposite way (see the drawings). Mark the position for the supports on the boards. The most important part is that the supports line up on the back edge of each shelf. To make layering the shelves easier, mark the position for the supports on the back side of each board including the top. Attach the supports to the boards using glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails. DO NOT layer the shelves, yet.

Step Three

Cut the pieces for the base. With the pocket hole jig set for 3/4″ material, drill pocket holes in each end of the shorter base pieces. Assemble the base frame using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws. Secure the base frame to the bottom of the lowest shelf using glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails.

Step Four

Continue layering the shelf assemblies, on on top of another alternating the direction of the supports. Secure each shelf to the supports on the shelf below it using glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails.

Step Five

Attach the top using glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails.

Finish as desired.

This would be a great shelving unit in a den, family room, or in the kids’ room! The front face of each support could be stenciled with a cool design for a modern look! Have any questions about the DIY plans for the Cutaway shelving unit? Send me an email at cher {at} designsbystudioc {dot} com!