Open Shelf

Sometimes projects just make me happy!  There are several reasons that contribute to that happiness...  For example, my Open Shelf is one of those projects.

Build this unique Open Shelf for only $20 in lumber!  Free plans and picture tutorial at MyLove2Create.
See...Happy!!



Let me tell you why.

  • One: It looks awesome! 
  • Two: It was very inexpensive, I am talking $20 inexpensive (just for the lumber, I had all the other the supplies screws and stain on hand)
  • Three: It is a simple easy project that can be done in an afternoon!
  • Four:  I am sharing the free plans at Buildsomething.com Kreg's new project plan site for FREE so you can build your own!!!
Build this unique Open Shelf for only $20 in lumber!  Free plans and picture tutorial at MyLove2Create.
This post contains affiliate links that help me at no cost to you!  Read More.

So exciting!  I was inspired by a bookshelf I saw in At Home, and I knew it would be super easy to build so I just had to have it!

Before you head over to get the plans let me show you how quick and simple this build is...
cut wood for building open shelf
Start with 2- 2x10x8 boards, they are about $9 each.  Then cut them for your open shelf.  You only need three sizes of boards, 1 base, 1 divider board, and 6 shelf boards.
using a Kreg Jig for drilling pocket holes
I used my Kreg K5 Pocket-Hole Jig to drill my pocket holes into the shelves and divider board.
measuring and marking base for divider shelf
Mark for center on the base by using two shelf boards flush to the sides.  This is where you will attach your divider board.
building open shelf with pocket holes
Attach your divider board to your base (top).  Then using some scrap wood as spacers (bottom left) attach your shelves.
wood glue and pocket holes to attach shelves
When attaching the shelves use wood glue and a bar clamp to keep the shelf in the correct place while drilling.  I also used a Speed Square to keep my cuts...square. :)

Oh, and can you see I got a little excited with my pocket hole drilling?  You only need to put pocket holes on one side of your shelf...I accidentally did them on on both sides on a couple shelves...oops! Glad I realized it before I did all of them that way!  Hee hee!
Open shelf all built
And that is it!  Stain or paint to your hearts content!  
beautiful open bookshelf
This is such a unique shelf, it will definitely be a conversation piece, and it is super fun to decorate!
easy to build bookshelf
I recommend not putting over 20 lbs. on the shelves, just to be save, but they are nice and sturdy!  Unless, you know, your kid is hanging on them, I don't recommend that!
open bookshelf design
Could you use a shelf like this?  I can think of several rooms that it would look great in!  My daughter said it looks like it could go in a nursery, because of the chair next to it. ;)  I think she is right!  It would look super cute in a nursery with baby books, supplies, and toys!

Be sure to pin and save this for later!
Build this unique Open Shelf for only $20 in lumber!  Free plans and picture tutorial at MyLove2Create.
Thanks for sharing!!


Hugs!
Mindi

I will be linking to these partiesSavvy Southern Style. SaveSave

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12 comments

  1. What a fun shelf idea, love it.

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  2. Beautiful open shelf Mindi! You did a wonderful job and the tutorial is easy to follow (as always)

    pinned!

    gail

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  3. neat, i love that shelf. my cats would probably think it's something for them, tho, b/c they think everything is, lol.
    b

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  4. I love it. Only problem is finding enough open wall space in my house to set it against. Really, really cute.

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  5. This is gorgeous! I need to talk someone into helping me make one! ;)

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  6. Great DIY Project. I will be featuring it on our next DI & DI Link Party this Sunday at 4 pm. Thanks so much for joining our party. Loved seeing this. (Pinned it too)

    Have a great day!

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  7. I absolutely love this shelf! thanks for sharing.

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  8. Love it! I'd be so pleased for you to link up at my new linky party, Support Your Fellow Crafter at Support Blog for Moms of Boys! Hope to "see" you soon :)

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  9. Really a unique piece! I love how it takes such little space, but holds so much. Thanks for sharing it with SYC.
    hugs,
    Jann

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  10. Hi Mindy! Really love your project. I'm co-hosting Home Matters Link Party and your the post I submitted to be featured. We're 11 host/co-host and only 5 makes it to the final featured. Come see us Friday to know! Good luck! I'm pinning your post anyway ;-)

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  11. Thank you for sharing this project Mindi! I'll be featuring you this week at the Creative Gallery! LOVE this build!

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  12. Love your shelf, looks really nice and doesn't take up lots of room, which we don't have. Noticed you have Krieg jig but guess could be made without one.
    Been trying to convince hubs a Krieg would be worthwhile investment on his account at Lowes. He'll have to think about it I guess.
    Have learned not to push issues when am hoping he'll listen for once. He's of older generation, hopefully not all older men are way he is, 75 yrs. old, been married over 48 yrs.
    Price is right to make, are you keeping yours?
    Printed this out right away cause if I don't will forget it, am of older generation also, will be 77 in July.
    When I took it out to l/r to staple he wanted to look at print out. Would love to have one for my craft room for storage or?, small room, big need for storage. We might even have enuf lumber on hand to make one.
    Great project. Have wonderful week

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Your comments make me smile! I love to hear what you think!