How should I go about converting a wall into a library for my wife – considering using 2×12 boards and plywood, any advice?
Asked by Marius Harestad 
2 months ago
Last Updated: August 4, 2024
So, I’ve got this wall in my bedroom that I want to turn into a library for my wife’s massive book collection. Any tips or advice on how to go about this project? I like to be prepared before diving in, so any info is appreciated.
I was thinking of using 2×12 boards for the frame, nailing it to the floor and studs, and then using plywood for backing and shelves. Does that sound like a good plan?
Update: Scratch my previous idea, I’ve decided to go with the Ikea Billy shelves. My wall is recessed by 12 inches and is 96 inches tall, so it should work perfectly. Thanks to everyone for the suggestions!
If you’re a DIY enthusiast, consider heading to IKEA and picking up a couple of 7-foot tall bookshelves that are 36 or 42 inches wide. Construct a base and add fillers between or next to the side walls, with crown molding at the top. You’ll have a great setup in no time.
Hey , that’s a great idea! I’ll definitely look into it. Thanks! 👍
https://www.ikea.com/us/en/p/billy-bookcase-white-00263850/
I remember watching a YouTube video where someone used these bookcases to create a custom bookshelf wall, just like I mentioned. I can’t seem to find it at the moment
Totally agrees. The bookshelf will come pre-assembled. Simply add molding and filler pieces to achieve a custom built-in look.
We tried something similar with Billy bookcases (3 wide, 2 narrow) and customized them by adding a long top. We’re in the process of selling our house and have received many compliments on this area. Valspar offers a white paint that matches Ikea’s white. You can also apply this idea to different finishes. The total cost of this project was under $400
You might be in trouble if you believe a thin plywood bookshelf can hold up under the weight of so many books in the long run. Books are heavier than people think, and most budget-friendly IKEA bookshelves will buckle under the pressure of a vast library. (I’ve had to fix/replace shelves and cabinets like this for clients facing the same issue.) Consider the robust shelves in classy movie libraries – thick and well-supported. Using 2*12 would be a disaster. You might as well place concrete blocks in between and end up with a messy trailer park look.
Hey , I had a good laugh from this. Let me reconsider it a bit.
I believe you can find complimentary plans online..check out the Family Handyman
Just ensure they are securely fastened to the wall
I utilized stained 2x12s and charming cast iron brackets for a fantastic appearance. I receive compliments on it constantly.
Hey , my books have been on the billy bookcases for years and they’ve held up perfectly fine.
Not particle board shelves. They tend to sag over time. Whatever material you choose, be sure to have strong support for the spans. When I was young, we had tall shelves made from 2x8s that were 15 feet high. The tops were custom angled to fit the ceiling. Each section was about 6 feet wide with additional shelf brackets for support. The sides had holes drilled for adjustable shelf heights. Ours were simple, but the finish is just a matter of personal preference. Someone suggested customizing IKEA shelves. Why not! You could even add a shelf basket for wire units, but if they are narrow, it may not be necessary. It’s a good idea to reinforce them with sturdier backing than the usual cardboard or add corner brackets to keep them stable.
What kind of tools are in your arsenal?
There’s a bunch of Milwaukee Fuel items sold by .
You could create a whole wall of shelves using plywood and 1×2 hardwood with a chop saw, small table saw, and pockethole jig. It would have a professional look and be able to support a lot of weight without bending.
Hey , which type of wood do you recommend using?
Auto fills my feed with tons of cool libraries and collections. If possible, I’ll try to share it with you. I adore books; it’s so thoughtful of you to create something for your wife. Can’t wait to see photos of your finished project!
Just 6.3 trillion, right?
I just wanted to mention that the IKEA Billy bookcase built-in hack is definitely worth checking out!
Try searching for it on Google! I believe it will be very helpful for you!
Check out IKEA’s website for some free design tools that let you play around with different furniture arrangements by dragging and dropping. Even if you’re not going for an IKEA style, it’s a great way to figure out your preferences. Plus, it’s much simpler to rearrange furniture on a computer screen than in real life!
I would create separate cabinets for all those books, stacking them with 2 or 3 shelves each in a 4×4 layout. Then, I’d use 1x2s to frame them out.
Check out IKEA hacks on YouTube for some creative ideas.
Shelves made of plywood may warp easily. It’s better to opt for real solid wood and attach brackets to studs. The brackets need to be placed close together for added strength. If you’re using a freestanding shelf unit, don’t nail it to the floor but secure it to studs. It’s also a good idea to ensure that the floor support can handle the weight without causing damage.
Sounds like a good plan, . Alright, I’ll go ahead with it.
I have a ton of books and my ultimate wish is to have bookshelves with glass doors. Dusting them is such a pain! In our living room, we already have some shelves with cabinets below (that have doors) and open shelves on the top. I sometimes imagine covering the front with oilcloth, like curtains, to keep out the dust – maybe even with a library image on it, haha! If you’re looking for glass doors, you could check out thrift stores.
I’m curious if my wife also imagines things like this. I’ll have to find out what she envisions.
I made the switch to ikea billy bookcases specifically for this. I have a few with white glass doors and some with a nice pattern, where you can even put wallpaper or fabric inside. I use the white part as a makeshift whiteboard. They’re all securely attached to studs and connected at the top with metal plates.
Got ikea billy bookcases with doors. I got mine secondhand thinking the doors alone were worth the price, and they sold quickly. I keep heavy books at the bottom and they’ve been sturdy. We recently moved and I’ve just started filling them up. Need to find time to organize everything.
Start with Billy bookcases from IKEA and add finishing trim to give them a built-in look.
Check this out! There are tons of videos on YouTube about this too.
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If you incorporate some doors, the appearance can improve – .
This! I found a great deal and took inspiration from another group! Pretty cost effective, and definitely sturdy enough for 10 trillion books. Just make sure to leave enough space for them to expand.
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Yes, definitely
🤩 I was shocked at how great it looked for the price and the time it seems to last. These shelves are built to stay forever! Stock up on all the books!
This is so cool
My buddies have been using these shelves for ages in their personal library. They practically had a separate home just for their books. And they’re well-known scientists, so it’s all for the sake of research.
I’ve been using what’s known as “slotted angle” industrial shelving for half a century. You can easily customize it like Amy did. There are various kits and parts available. Even with poplar facings, it can all be taken apart, relocated, and reused. I cover the lower half of my plain steel shelves with black 1/2″ thick Gator Board (paintable) attached with cup magnets epoxied to Gator. No visible fasteners from the front. The panels can be easily removed to access items that are rarely used or sensitive to light and dust. I only use 1/2″ x 3/4″ x 3/4″ x 1/16 aluminum channel at the bottom. You need to smooth the edges of the Gator to install the channel. Finish the installation with a rubber mallet and a softwood block. Affordable, efficient, and easily movable.
If it were me, I would purchase bookshelves and connect them using screws.
Try using tape to map out the shelf placements! It’s a helpful visual aid.
That’s a great idea!
A 1 x 12 bookcase would be quite deep, especially for art books. It’s best to measure your books and add a bit of extra depth accordingly. I personally prefer anchoring a freestanding bookcase to the wall for added security, but there are various design options to consider based on your preferences.
In my home office, I have an 8′ wide closet with sliding doors where I store my books, electronics, and more. I prefer the Japanese aesthetic. Dust isn’t a problem. When work is done, I tidy up to relax with some music in visual seclusion. My collection of books is small compared to the posters displayed.
BTW, I used heavy gauge steel Equipto shelves in the closet. I crafted soft-cornered MFD dividers to separate the categories. Magazine bins come in handy. The little 30-year-old corrugated drawers from Muji Tokyo’s first store are perfect for keeping small items organized. They used to hold 10 cassettes per drawer. Truly a classic.
In my opinion, 2×12 is excessive … bookshelves do not require a 2x structure … consider using 3/4 plywood and add 1×2 edging where needed. This is a common way to build bookshelves.
6.3 trillion
Our room is overflowing with books piled high, plus she’s got two bookcases and about 50 books at her workplace haha. We receive a book or two in the mail every single day.
I totally get it. The good news is, I’m retired now and diving into 3-4 books a week from my collection instead of adding more!
Generally, 3/4″ material should ideally be supported at 30″ or less, but some may argue for 36″.
Install adjustable shelves at different heights and consider adding a sturdy shelf in the middle for additional support. Keep in mind that plywood is stiffer in one direction than the other.
Bolt it onto the wall.
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Knowledge is power.
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I really enjoy this. Thanks a bunch!
The type of wood you choose is important. Oak, walnut, hard maple, and others are good options. Plus, adding a small lip under the front and back of the shelf can provide extra support. Avoid long runs of shelves. It’s better to have tall shelves at the bottom and shorter ones at the top, unless you prefer to alphabetize them.
Great, I’ll jot that down.
For hardwood, make sure it’s dried to 7% moisture content to avoid warpage or cracking.
Purchase bookcases from IKEA and customize them to create built-ins. This will save you a lot of frustration, unless you have access to a well-equipped cabinet shop.
Search for IKEA hack built-in library shelves on Google.
I looked into the idea and it turns out each bookcase costs $100 to have it delivered to my house, so that’s not going to work 🙃
Material costs will be pretty close to ikea prices, if not a bit higher.
I’m currently looking into them. Seems pretty interesting.
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Make sure the vertical supports of the shelves are positioned where the wall studs are for extra stability.
I think it’s a good idea to secure the top of the bookcase to the wall. You can probably find some helpful tips online. A row of bookcases falling over could be really dangerous.
I’ve seen a few DIY videos that show how to use IKEA bookcases and trim to create the illusion of built-in shelves. They turn out really nice.
Oh my goodness! There are countless YouTube videos about this too.
Sure, I’m going for the IKEA Billy project. My wall is set back by 12 inches and stands at 96 inches tall. It’s going to work out perfectly. Appreciate all the input, everyone!
I have a shelving unit for canned goods in my garage and they’re really sturdy. I make sure to place the heaviest books on the bottom. If you decide to add doors, be sure to anchor it to the wall first to prevent tipping.