A bookshelf can be made with the right tools and some assistance.
The Kreg jig is an innovative product used to create pocket holes for many woodworking and carpentry applications. Ease of setting up the jig allows for speedy assembly of any project. Building bookshelves is a project which is well-suited for the Kreg jig application. The installation of pocket hole screws allows for superior joint fastening. This fastening system is less complex to use than conventional joinery. The Kreg jig is easy-to-use for both novice and veteran woodworkers and carpenters. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Sketching and Cutting
1. Determine the dimensions of the bookshelf unit by measuring the sizes of the items to be placed in it. A typical single bookshelf unit is 30-by-36 inches wide.
2. Make a sketch of the bookcase and write the dimensions on the sketch.
3. Measure the 1-by-2 pieces and mark them according to the sketch dimensions. These are for the face frame.
4. Cut the vertical face frame pieces at the marks with the miter saw. All cuts are 90-degrees.
5. Cut the horizontal pieces to the dimensions on the sketch.
6. Clamp the R3 Jig on the ends of the horizontal frame pieces
7. Insert the pocket hole bit into the drill and tighten it.
8. Drill the ends of the horizontal face frame pieces by placing the pocket hole bit into each hole on the jig and push the drill in until the bit can't go any further into the jig.
9. Glue the ends of the horizontal pieces and fasten them to the top and bottom of the vertical pieces with the pocket screws.
Pocket hole layout
10. Measure and mark the dimensions for the bookcase sides by transferring the dimensions from the sketch onto the boards.
11. Set the miter saw to 90-degrees and cut the side pieces on the marks with the miter saw.
12. Measure and mark the top, bottom and shelf pieces according to the dimensions on the sketch.
13. Place marks at 4-inch intervals across the length of the shelf on one side only. These marks are where the pocket holes will be drilled for attachment to the face frame.
14. Place the sides on the work surface and mark the dimensions for the shelf location.
Assemby: Part 1
15. Clamp the pocket hole jig on each mark and drill one hole for each mark on all boards.
16. Apply glue to the ends of the top shelf.
17.Align the top shelf end on the marks of one of the bookshelf sides, keeping the pocket holes facing toward the inside of the bookshelf.
18. Insert the screw tip in the drill and tighten it.
19. Install the pocket hole screws through the top shelf and into the side piece by inserting them into the pocket hole and tightening them with the drill and screw tip. Repeat the assembly process for the bottom piece and shelf.
Assembly: Part 2
20. Apply wood glue to the edge of the top, bottom and shelf pieces.
21. Place the face frame in front of the partially assembled bookshelf.
22. Align the bottom, top and shelf pieces on the frame and install the pocket hole screws through them.
23. Apply wood glue to the ends of the top, bottom and shelf pieces.
24. Install the other side piece in the same manner as the first side piece, attaching it to the shelves and face frame and sand the entire bookshelf with the sandpaper.
Tags: face frame, pocket hole, bottom shelf, bottom shelf pieces, shelf pieces