5 unique and creative Bookshelves / DIY step-by-step guide

 

 

Looking for something special for your books? A real eyecatcher? Something no one else has? Here are my 5 favorite bookshelf ideas – unique, creative and easy – to do yourself.


1. a plumber's dream: Vintage Pipes

 

  • You can get this type of pipes on Amazon (called pipe fitting or pipe joint). They are usually just used for decorative purposes. 
  • Make sure to have some space (not too much) to the wall, so your books will fit nicely. Glue the pipes together with strong metal glue (don't use some other cheap alternative, especially nothing for handicraft work or wood glue).
  • If you want a light bulb that works, you will need to have the wiring done beforehand.
  • Mount the pipe structure by drilling holes and using screw anchors and screws.


2. simple eyecatcher: a Ladder for a Corner

 

  • Well, what can I say? Pick a ladder, whatever kind you prefer. Make sure the rails are parallel (not conical) and wide enough for your books. Mount it on the wall. The only thing to pay attention to, is that because of the ladder's and books' weight you'll need to drill holes into the walls and use screw anchors that are strong enough. 
  • Use a spirit level!
  • It looks best with a gap between ladder and wall. For this, use spacers, such as wooden spacers, that will not show (meaning they can't be larger than the width of the ladder rail).


3. brackets for Floating Books


This is an easy one and yet so cool.

  • Choose the wall. You might also want to choose the set of books beforehand, as this might affect the dimensions and space in between the brackets.
  • You'll need to drill holes for the brackets. Take your time with measuring precisely and mark the wall. Use a spirit level. 
  • After drilling, insert screw anchor and attach brackets by screw.
  • You can stack the books on the brackets, one on top of each other.

 

 

 

4. cheap & easy: Upcycle a Pallet

This bookshelf is very eco-friendly as you re-use material. 

  • Reclaim a pallet and cut (best: padsaw, alternative: Japanese saw) it into the dimensions you want the shelves to be. 
  • To have them on the wall, use a spirit level as you mark the spots, drill holes, use strong screw anchors and mount.
  • For a sideboard-like shelf, stack the pieces of pallets on top of each other. You can stabilize them with peg boards (metal plates) at the back or by glueing them together (wood glue).



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. nostalgic & extravagant: Old TV

Want a true eyecatcher? Well, who's got an old TV as a bookshelf? 

  • Check out a flea market or the like, discover which device you prefer and take it home. I'd advise you to pick a smaller one. Remember: Your books should fit but you might not want to waste too much space either.
  • Most TVs will still have the screen. Best is to dismantle it from the back. This will take some time. If you rather smash it (with a hammer), wear protective gear and cover the TV with a thick cloth! Make sure that shards can't fly around! I do not recommend this method. It might be, depending on the screen type, that a lot of pieces remain stuck to the frame and that you might have to pluck them out one by one.
  • Clear out any remaining pieces such as wiring. Clean the case thoroughly. 
  • Find a nice place to set it up and put your books inside the TV.

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