Renovation Videos

Fix it, build it, learn it.

Build built-in bookshelves

Built-ins look custom and cost far less than hiring a carpenter. The videos here build three styles: shelves from 1×12 boards with a plywood back, plywood shelves under a staircase and an arched version. In each, the carcass is built first, then fastened to wall studs and trimmed.

Measure the wall in several places and plan the shelf spacing, because floors and walls are rarely level. Use a stud finder to find solid anchors, and a cordless drill and a miter saw for most steps. Support the span of each shelf so it does not sag under books. Finish with face frames, caulk and paint. Shelves anchored to studs and tall units should be fastened to the wall so they cannot tip.

Events

Videos

  1. Laundry Room Renovation: Built-In Cabinets and Butcher Block

    Project buildShara Woodshop Diaries · 13:44
  2. Building Laundry Room Cabinet Boxes and Maple Face Frames

    Series partFortress Fine Woodworks · 18:51

    Project: Laundry Room Cabinets

  3. Building Laundry Room Cabinets Around a Soffit and Washer-Dryer

    Series partBourbon Moth Woodworking · 32:40
  4. Fireplace Built-ins From Unfinished Wall Cabinets and Beadboard

    Series partAt Home With Lady Cinnamon · 12:36

    Project: Fireplace with Built-ins

  5. Plywood Built-In Closet Around IKEA Dressers for About $1,000

    Project buildM. Creek Renovations · 11:11
  6. DIY Shiplap Built-Ins With Floating Shelves Beside a Fireplace

    Project buildDesigned to the Nines · 22:53
  7. Turning a Hallway Closet into Drawers and Shelves with Cedar Trim

    Project buildShara Woodshop Diaries · 18:02
  8. DIY Walk-In Closet Shelves From 3/4 in. MDF, Nailed to Studs

    Step by step how toHandyman Startup · 11:20
  9. Closet Built-In With Desk, Drawers and Oak Doors for Under $600

    Series partBeau Builds · 21:22

    Project: Son's Room Renovation

  10. Building Plywood Built-In Shelves Under a Staircase

    Step by step how toMr. Build It · 13:49
  11. Turn Basic Bookshelves into Arched Built-Ins with Plywood

    Step by step how toLowe's Home Improvement · 5:05