Stacked Bench Bookshelf

Hi, it’s Amy from Hertoolbelt back with another build plan.  In case you missed the last project, you’ll want to check out the portable workbench plans.  We came across this unique stacked bench bookshelf tutorial at BHG.  The tutorial tells you how to assemble the bookshelf, but not how to build the benches.   So this build plan will show you how to build 3 benches in staggered sizes, then refer to Better Homes and Gardens for the details on assembling the stacked bookshelf!

source BHG

How to Build a Stacked Bench Bookshelf

Materials

• 3 – 1″ x 12″ x 8′ boards (actual 3/4″ x 11 1/4″)
• 2 – 1″ x 10″ x 8′ boards (actual 3/4″ x 9 1/4″)
• 3 – 1″ x 3″ x 8′ boards (actual 3/4″ x 2 1/2″)
• 1 1/4″ pocket screws
• wood filler
• sand paper
• wood glue
• stain/paint
• top coat
  • Approximate wood cost: $ 78

The BHG article uses a 60″, 48″ and 36″ bench.  We’ll go through how to build the 60″ bench, the other two will be the same with different dimensions.

Cut List

From the 11 1/4″ boards, cut the 60″, 48″ and 36″ pieces and set aside.  Cut 6 pieces that are 11 1/4″ x 17 1/4″.  You can design your bench sides however you like, but if you want to use a template, you can download and print this one.  Make sure your print settings are at 100% and not ‘fit to page’.  Bench side template 1, Bench side template 2, Bench side template3 Cut out and tape the pattern together.  Cut the 6 sides to match the pattern, this can easily be done with a jig saw, band saw or scroll saw.

60″ Bench

Use a pocket hole jig, and drill 2 or 3 pocket holes at the top of the side pieces.  Mark 3″ up from the bottom of the sides.

From both ends of the top 60″ piece, mark 2″ in and 1 1/2″ in from the side.  Use wood glue and 1 1/4″ pocket hole screws to attach the sides to the top.  

Drill 2 or 3 pocket holes in each end of the 9 1/4″ x 54 1/2″ piece.  Line the bottom of the 54 1/2″ piece up with the 3″ mark on the sides, use wood glue and 1 1/4″ screws to attach the bottom to the sides.

For the 2 trim pieces, you can add a little curve if you want, but it’s not necessary.  Here is a pattern if you want to use it.  curve template Cut out the template and trace it onto the ends of the 2 1/2″ pieces.  Use a jig saw, scroll saw or band saw to cut out the curve.  Glue and nail (1 1/4″ or longer) the trim pieces to the top of the side pieces.

Repeat the same steps for the 48″ bench

and the 36″ bench

Fill any cracks or blemishes with wood filler, let dry.  Sand the benches until smooth, finishing with 120-150 grit paper.

Refer to Better Homes and Gardens for assembly instructions.

Such a fun and unique shelf.

For more build plans check out Her Toolbelt:

Recessed Mirror // Mr & Mrs Blocks // Simple Headboard

More creative and easy shelving tutorials:

easy wine crate shelves

simple rustic open wall shelves

easy suspended shelving

Published: March 14, 2015Filed Under: Contributor, Project Plans, Seating, Sketches/Renderings, Tutorials Tagged: Bench, Bookcases, building plans, Shelves, shelving

About Amy Baesler

Amy is the tool lover at Hertoolbelt. On Hertoolbelt, Amy shares DIY furniture plans, handyman tutorials, and craft patterns. She has two pint sized 'helpers' that help fix things around the house and build fun projects.