How to Make Bookshelves for Heavy Books

Bookshelves are designed to bear a significant amount of weigh because the weight of several books can surpass several pounds. Large anthologies or book collection sets can make weight add up quickly. Homemade bookshelves must be able to carry heavy books so the wood does not crack under the weight and the wall does not suffer permanent damage.

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• 1-inch thick plywood sheet, 1 sheet top grade
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Circular saw
• Medium-grit sandpaper
• Wall stud finder
• 2 metal shelving brackets
• 3-inch long screws
• Level
• Cordless screwdriver
• 2/3-inch long screws
• Screwdriver

1. • 1
     With a measuring tape, gather the desired dimensions of the bookshelf. Measure the desired length of the shelf by placing the measuring tape horizontally across the wall and the width of the shelf by placing the measuring tape outward from the wall toward you. Write the measurements down.
   • 2
     Draw the outline of the shelf on the 1-inch thick plywood sheet using the length and width dimensions, a pencil and a ruler for making straight lines.
   • 3
     Cut the shelf with a circular saw. Hold the sandpaper in your hand and slide it along the edges of the cut sides of the plywood shelf. Apply slight pressure when sanding the edges to remove splinters.
   • 4
     Turn on the wall stud device and place it flat on the wall where you wish to mount the heavy-duty bookshelf. Slide it slowly to the side and stop when the device beeps loudly. Make a pencil mark on the wall at the point where the device is beeping. Repeat this step to find two studs that are close together so both can support the shelf.
   • 5
     Place one shelving bracket on the wall so it overlaps one of the pencil marks. Ensure it is vertically placed by lining up the level next to the shelving bracket. Install the bracket onto the wall stud using a cordless screwdriver and the three-inch long screws. Use at least two to three screws for a single bracket. Repeat this step with the second bracket, ensuring that both are installed at the same height.
   • 6
     Place the plywood shelf on top of the brackets and adjust it so it is evenly placed. The balance of the shelf and brackets must be even, so both ends of the shelf can hold heavy books. Secure the shelf to the brackets using a handheld screwdriver and two-thirds long screws, inserting them from the bottom upward.