Custom Bookcases
Choosing Materials
Choosing the materials and hardware for your custom bookcases will depend on your finished look.
Stain grade bookcases require mostly natural wood and matching, specialized plywood to look proper. Paint grade cabinets can be done with birch or maple plywood and pine or poplar face frames or doors.
Constructing The Bookcases
Mostly everything can be built modular and in the shop. Cabinets, counters and bookcases can be pre-built and then assembled and fastened together on site. This allows for less disruption in the home and a better quality product since shop tools and precision can be utilized.
We make our bookcase carcase frames with a tongue and dado construction for strength. Anywhere that there is an exposed edge receives a poplar edging [face frame or baseboard] or as in the case of the shelves a nosing.
For the door frames we use a cope and stick frame construction and 3/8 inch thick flat panels or 3/4-inch thick raised panels. [floating panel construction]
Face Frame Construction
Face frames are attached to the bookcase carcase with hidden screws and glue and provide strength and rigidity to the bookcase.
For paint grade bookcases face nails can be utilized and filled. Stain grade however is a different animal and it is best to use hidden screws or “pocket screws.” Hidden screws are exceptionally strong and leave no trace.
