9 Cubby Bookshelf

Difficulty

Intermediate

9 big cubbies to store everything from books to toys - or use around the house for a vintage feel. Free step by step plans from Ana-White.com

9 Cubby Bookshelf Features

9 large cubbies perfect for books, toys, blankets, and more
Label each cubby for easy organization
1x12 construction - easy to build and takes most any stain or paint
Back optimized for 48" wide 1/4" thick plywood panels (one easy cut and you are done!)
About $125 in materials (compare to over $500)
Solid wood design will last and hold heavy objects and is repairable, re-finish able and easy to re-purpose

cubby bookshelf white

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Dimensions

Dimensions shown above

Preparation

Shopping List

2 - 1x12 @ 8 feet long

2 - 1x12 @ 10 feet long

1 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long

2 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long

1 - Full sheet (4x8 feet) of 1/4" plywood or other hardboard

Common Materials

3/4 inch finish nails

1 1/4 inch finish nails

1-1/4" Pocket Hole Screws

Elmer's Wood Glue

Elmer's Wood Filler

120 grit sandpaper

Cut List

1 - 1x12 @ 48" (top)
2 - 1x12 @ 59-1/4" (sides)
2 - 1x12 @ 56" (dividers)
1 - 1x12 @ 46-1/2" (bottom)
2 - 1x2 @ 46-1/2" (bottom supports)
6 - 1x12 @ 15" (shelves)
4 - 1x4 @ 48" (shelf trim)
1 - 1/4" plywood @ 48" x 59"

Cutting Instructions

Recommended cuts of 1x12 boards:

1x12x8 - 48" and 46-1/2"
1x12x10 - 59-1/4" and 59-1/4"
1x12x10 - 56" and 56"
1x12x8 - 15" and 15" and 15" and 15" and 15" and 15"

Tools

General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Instructions

Step 1

Build the frame for the shelf with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Place pocket holes on insides and undersides to hide.

Step 2

Attach bottom 1x2 trim with 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue.

Step 3

Attach shelves to sides and dividers with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

Step 4

Attach 1x4s to fronts of shelves with 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue.

Step 5

Add back with glue and 3/4" brad nails. Nail to all dividers and shelves.

Finishing Instructions

Preparation Instructions

Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.

Project Type

Bookshelf and Bookcase Plans