- 1). Measure your shelves or chosen space to find the proper sizes of your wooden frame using the measuring tape. For the adjustable shelves, measure the length and depth of the shelves. Determine how high you want the bookshelf to be and write down the measurements. For a chosen space in a wall unit, measure the depth, the length and the height of the given space and write down these measurements.
- 2). Lay down the plywood sheet. Use the measurements from step 1 to draw the frame panels. Sketch two side panels using the depth and height measurements. Sketch two horizontal side panels using the depth and length measurements. If you are making a custom-fitted frame, subtract 1 inch from the length measurement on the two horizontal panels, so the frame can fit inside the space chosen. The two last horizontal panels drawn should be identical. Ensure the lines drawn are straight by using the ruler.
- 3). Cut the four bookshelf frame panels with the table saw. Eliminate all splinters or cracks that may have appeared due to the cutting by sandpapering the side edges just exposed to the saw blade.
- 4). Assemble the frame by placing the two vertical side pieces down on their sides. They should be placed across from one another, so they are parallel. Take the two remaining pieces and place them perpendicular to the two original pieces. These two secondary pieces should be placed inside the two original pieces to create the rectangular frame.
- 5). Place the level on top of the frame to make sure it is evenly arranged. Connect the four pieces together to secure the frame by hammering two to three nails into each long side panel corners. Keep the level on top of the frame during assembly. Ensure the nails extend into the top and bottom pieces when hammering. Place the bookshelf frame right-side up and attach your adjustable shelves, if you have them.
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