This list of free woodworking plans will guide you to build bookshelves and bookcases of all sizes and purposes. Not all of the listings provide exact details on building methods. Builders should have some knowledge of basic wood handling and its characteristics related to the project intended to be built. Look for the page navigation link near the bottom of this list as there are many more pages for free bookshelf building projects.
This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a bookshelf. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.
Direct link. Featured in Issue 126.
This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a small bookcase. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.
This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a knockdown bookshelf I made from cherry. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.
Build this open shelving unit which features a drawer on the bottom using these free step-by-step instructions.
Australian Woodsmith is a practical magazine for all woodworkers. From Issue 39. I used biscuit joinery to assemble the sides of the Knock-Down Classic Bookshelf, but the traditional mortise and tenon joinery shown at right will do the job just as well.
This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for a Mission style bookcase. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.
Build a unique stacked bookshelf using the free woodworking plans available at the link. The size could be modified using the same construction.
Gail from My Repurposed Life shows how she made a great bookshelves from an old door.
Follow these free step-by-step instructions to build your own storage or media tower.
This bookshelf is meant to sit on the floor. Follow these free instructions to build one.
This is a link to a Google 3D SketchUp drawing for an open face hutch for a home office, doors are optional. You will need the SketchUp software to download this drawing and its freely available online. We do not provide support for this software. Not all drawings have the measurements displayed but you can use the measurement tool in SketchUp to easily and accurately determine the dimensions of each lumber part. Most drawings do not have instructions, its assumed you can build it based on the completed drawing provided.
Build this modular tetris shelf what ever size you wish. At the link you can put in your size requirements and the plan will be customized to suite your needs.
For something a little different, try building a bench stacked bookcase. Here are the free plans to build it.
When you hear the phrase knock-down furniture, you probably picture something that comes in a cardboard box, takes half an hour to assemble and can barely hold its own weight. Well, this cherry knock-down bookcase definitely does not fit that mold. It may be knock-down construction, but that is where the resemblance ends. This project is a classic design that looks great and offers a few woodworking techniques that just might surprise you. It is knock-down construction the way it should be!
Build a mission style book trough using this cut list with diagrams. While there are limited instructions, there is enough information to build the project.
Build your own bookshelf doorway - like a secret passage behind a door! Scroll down the page at the link for step-by-step instructions.
This is a reprint from Things To Make by Archibald Williams published in the early 1900s. I have included it because it looks like it would be an easy project to do and it is interesting to read.
While there are no dimensions given, this is a great tutorial on building this low bookshelf/bench.
Here is a tall, floor-to-ceiling bookcase with the versatility to serve a variety of purposes.
These contemporary shelves were built using 2 x 12 lumber. They turned out beautiful. Perfect for displaying your collection. At the link you will find the step-by-step instructions to build a set of free-standing shelves.
Build this mid-century style bookshelf using the free downloadable woodworking plans at the link.
This ladder-style bookshelf, which requires no particular skill or specialized tools to build, measures 72 inches wide at its base and about 60 inches high. The shelves are simply laid across the rungs of a ladder structure, which can be folded for easy storage.
Build a modern bookshelf using these free step-by-step instructions.
Build this stackable bookshelf system any size you wish using this tutorial.
Here is a great tutorial for you to use to build built-in bookshelves.
These patriotic bookends were created on the scroll saw and if your favorite team is not the same, no worries. Create your own team logo bookends using the free instructions at the link.
This shelf unit is simple and inexpensive to build. It features adjustable shelves and can be used in the house or workshop. It can easily be mounted on your workshop wall.
We used the Peace symbol for these bookends but you could use just about anything.
Build this open industrial bookshelf using the free woodworking plans available at the link. Pictured here are two side by side.