A sturdy bookshelf using dado joinery for the shelves and a face frame for a refined look. This project teaches cabinet-making fundamentals.
| PIECE | QUANTITY | DIMENSIONS |
|---|---|---|
| Sides | 2 | 3/4" ply 11-1/4" x 72" |
| Shelves | 5 | 3/4" ply 11-1/4" x 34-1/2" |
| Back | 1 | 1/4" ply 35" x 72" |
| Face frame stiles | 2 | 3/4" x 1-1/2" x 72" |
| Face frame rails | 6 | 3/4" x 1-1/2" x 32" |
Cut all plywood pieces to size according to cut list.
Cut 3/4" wide, 3/8" deep dados in the side panels for shelves, spacing them 14 inches apart.
Apply edge banding to all visible plywood edges.
Assemble the case by gluing shelves into dados. Clamp until dry.
Cut a 1/4" rabbet on the back edges of sides and shelves for the back panel.
Build face frame using pocket screws to join rails to stiles.
Attach face frame to front of case with glue and brad nails.
Install 1/4" plywood back, securing with small brads.
Sand entire piece, paying special attention to face frame.
Apply finish of choice.
Sand to 220 grit. Apply stain if desired, then 3 coats of polyurethane. For painted finish, use primer and 2-3 coats of paint, sanding between coats. Consider a contrasting color for the back panel.