Building Invisible Bookshelves: A Step-by-Step Guide
Book lovers often find themselves running out of storage space for their ever-growing collection. While bookcases are a great solution, they can take up a lot of space and may not fit the décor of every room. Invisible bookshelves provide a unique and creative solution to this problem. These bookshelves make books appear as if they are floating in mid-air, creating a visually stunning display.
Invisible bookshelves are not just visually appealing, but they also save space and can be a great conversation starter. With a few simple tools and supplies, you can easily create your own invisible bookshelves. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build them:
Step 1: Gather the Required Tools and Materials
To build invisible bookshelves, you will need the following materials and tools:
- A wooden board
- Screws
- Wall anchors
- A power drill
- A saw
- Sandpaper
- Paint or wood stain (optional)
Step 2: Cut the Wooden Board
Using a saw, cut the wooden board to the desired size for the invisible bookshelf. A standard size for invisible bookshelves is 3 feet long by 6 inches wide. However, you can adjust the size to fit your needs. Be sure to sand the edges and surface of the wooden board to ensure a smooth finish.
Step 3: Pre-Drill Holes for the Screws
Mark the placement of the screws on the wooden board. This is where the bookshelf will attach to the wall. Pre-drill the holes for the screws to ensure they are straight and to prevent the wood from splitting.
Step 4: Attach the Wall Anchors
Attach the wall anchors to the wall where you want the invisible bookshelf to be installed. Make sure the wall anchors are securely attached to the wall, as they will be supporting the weight of the books.
Step 5: Install the Screws
Attach the wooden board to the wall by screwing it into the wall anchors. Be sure to use screws that are long enough to go through the wooden board and into the wall anchors. Test the strength of the shelf by giving it a gentle tug before adding books.
Step 6: Arrange the Books
Now it’s time to add the books. Place one book vertically against the wall, with the spine facing out. The bottom of the book should rest on the wooden board. Add another book, using the bottom of the previous book to create a ledge for the new book. Repeat this process, stacking books on top of one another until the desired height is achieved.
Step 7: Add More Shelves
If you want to add more invisible bookshelves, repeat the above steps. You can create multiple shelves at different heights, using the same method.
Step 8: Paint or Stain the Wooden Board (Optional)
If desired, paint or stain the wooden board to match the décor of the room.
Tips and Tricks for Building Invisible Bookshelves
- Use wooden boards that are sturdy enough to hold the weight of the books. A thickness of at least 1 inch is recommended.
- Be sure to use wall anchors that can support the weight of the books.
- Stack the books with the heaviest ones on the bottom and the lightest ones on top to ensure stability.
- Use books of similar sizes to create a uniform look.
- Experiment with different book arrangements to create unique and visually interesting displays.
Conclusion
Invisible bookshelves are a simple and creative solution to save space and display your book collection. With the right tools and supplies, you can easily create your own invisible bookshelves.