Build a Bookcase: Cherry Bookcase Plans

Everyone needs more storage for books, and what could be better than an elegant bookcase (or two) that you’ve made yourself? Our DIY bookcase is made from cherry, and you’ll learn about cherry’s working characteristics, but you can choose any material you prefer for your bookcase.

While making this project, you’ll learn how to accurately crosscut big pieces, such as the case sides, using a hand-held router and shop-made jig. You’ll also learn about dadoes and rabbets for case joinery, useful for projects such as dressers and kitchen cabinets. A real pinnacle of this piece is the dentil molding. What a beautiful detail! You’ll learn to make this attractive molding using your table saw and dado head. You’ll also see how to precisely miter and attach the moldings.

Bookcase shelves need to be rigid, and you’ll see how to guarantee that your shelves won’t sag over time. The top of the bookcase is solid wood. We provide you with a great technique that allows the top to be solidly attached to the case, while still being able to expand and contract seasonally.

A full cut list for the project is included.