How to Build a Bookshelf

I’ve always wanted to test out the unfinished crates from Home Depot and finally I had the perfect project! I love that the crates are already made, can be painted or stained any color, and fit together to form a storage solution for any space. I learned how to build a bookshelf for John’s new bedroom.

This will likely be the easiest piece of furniture you ever build!

Here’s what you’ll need to make a bookshelf

• 5 large crates – You can use any size wooden crate, I used 18 x 12.5 x 9.5, at Home Depot they are called Large Wood Crates. Also, you can buy very similar wooden crates on Amazon, and if you need 12 or more crates, this is the best deal!
• Stain or paint of your choice- I used Rust-Oluem Ultimate Wood Stain in weathered grey.
• Purdy paintbrush– Purdy brushes are the best!
• Drop cloth- To stain or paint the crates on.

How do I build a bookshelf?

The 5 crate bookshelf was oringially built for a Celebration of Service event with Home Depot. I had the honor of creating a storage solution for Richard Hutchison and his brother, John. John was hit by a drunk driver and paralyzed from the chest down in 2005. Richard, a 20 year veteran of the Army, has been taking care of his brother ever since. Richard and John asked if I would be willing to help with storage solutions for the new bedroom. They have a ton of books, family pictures, and a model car collection that they both adore.

Step 1- Stain

First, lay out a large drop cloth and give each wooden crate 2 coats of Rust-Oleum Ultimate wood stain in weathered grey.

Step 2- Stack

Next, decide how you want to stack the wooden crates. I have 4 fun stacking options below.

Step 3- Secure together

Lastly, consider securing the crates together. I did not screw the crates together for the Celebration of Service event since kids do not live in the Hutchinson’s home. If you do live with kids or pets, I would screw the crates together and attach the bookshelf to the wall so there is no risk of the bookshelf falling apart or onto someone.

4 Bookshelf crate configuration ideas

1. John’s Bedroom

This is the 5 crate storage solution all set up in John’s new bedroom! Cleary the walls still need a little paint and the outlet covers needs to be screwed back on, but you get the point.

2. Stair step toy storage

I wanted to show you a few more ways you could possibly arrange the 5 crates. Here’s a stair step idea that stores all things Maxwell.

3. Shoe storage

And here are the 5 crates stocked with shoes. This crate bookshelf is ideal for a closet, laundry room, or entry way.

4. Four Crate bookshelf

And a simple square 4 crate option, just for fun!

Have you ever made a bookshelf or crate furniture? I’d love to hear!