I built Grace's Bookshelves and they seem so flimsy! I used pine facings and MDF as recommended. They seem to wobble lengthwise.
I added a bit more support under the shelves becasue I worry that they may sag. Any tips on the wobble?
I am thinking of trying to reevaluate this before I put the other one together. How hard would it be to modify it with 2x2 legs or to add more support underneath?
Any advice on this or on finishing??
Forums
claydowling
Wed, 04/06/2011 - 07:25
Rigidity
Unfortunately those plans are destined to be a little wobbly. It's held together with butt joints throughout, and that isn't an especially strong joint.
You can make it considerably strong by putting a back on it. That's the solution that professional cabinet makers use to stabilize their cabinets.
As a not-to-bad alternative, putting a 1x4 backer on each shelf will do a lot to stabilize it. Place it on top of the shelf, inside the sides, securing it to the sides and the shelf with pocket holes from a kreg jig. That also keeps things from falling off the back of the shelves. This isn't as secure as a full back, but you'll be impressed with home much stability it does give.
Another alternative would be to build the face frame as a separate piece and assemble that with pocket screws. Then when attached to the shelves it will act to stiffen the frame. That's what holds my bathroom vanity together (that and a stiffener strip along the back).