20 Best DIY Bookshelf Ideas That Nobody Will Believe You Made Yourself
We're losing our shelf control over these insanely clever projects.
Calling all bookworms! If you’re looking for your next DIY project, look no further. A bookshelf is a staple in every home, but did you know the best bookshelves come in countless shapes, sizes, and at little-to-no cost? Yes, really. Think again before you buy your next bookshelf. Chances are, you have plenty of materials around the house to put together a creative DIY bookshelf. From simple crate bookshelves to honeycomb hexagon shelves, nursery shelves made from kitchen spice racks, full-on built-ins and more, the following list includes countless creative projects (including small bookshelf ideas) for you and your family to try.
And these DIY bookshelf ideas aren’t just impressive—they’re unique, budget-friendly, and DIY-able no matter your skill level. Thought a bookshelf only belonged in the bedroom? Think again. While we love a great bookshelf nightstand, this roundup includes ideas you can take to every room in the house—kitchen shelving units, floating bookshelves, shelving hacks for uneven walls (hello, basement!), and even a DIY coffee table bookshelf adapted from a wire spool.
DIY Gilded Bookshelf
Turn a simple IKEA bookshelf into this pretty piece with marble contact paper and gold spray paint. Complete your display with stacked books and feminine décor.
See more at Style Me Pretty.
DIY Pink Crate Bookshelf
Fuse wood crates together to make the perfect standing bookshelf for a child’s room. Spray paint each crate your color of choice.
Get the tutorial at Love Create Celebrate.
DIY Sliding Crate Bookshelf
On the other hand, make your crate bookshelf mobile with casters. This project calls for wood stain instead of spray paint.
Get the tutorial at Sew Much Ado.
DIY Honeycomb Hexagon Shelves
Bring color to open walls with these bright DIY hexagon shelves. Fill them with succulents, books, or both.
See more from Jessica Brigham.
DIY Spine Bookshelf
This versatile spine bookshelf couldn’t be easier to DIY. (It’s easy to remove too!) Place it against an open wall near a door or anywhere else you need vertical balance.
Get the tutorial at Shades of Blue Interiors.
DIY Built-In Shelves
Roll up your sleeves and pull out your miter saw to DIY this bright and beautiful scene. Use kitchen cabinets for the base of your built-ins to make the process a bit easier.
See more from Sarah Sherman Samuel.
DIY Fruit Slice Shelves
Brighten up any small space with these fun DIY fruit shelves. We promise they’re durable!
See more at A Bubbly Life.
DIY Nursery Bookshelves
Turn kitchen spice racks into nursery bookshelves for less than $5 each with this easy DIY project. Fill each shelf with colorful pages before your little one’s arrival.
Get the tutorial at The DIY Playbook.
DIY Triangle Shelves
How fun is this piece? Build the frame before you center the middle shelves. Then, use your best geometry skills to cut and fit the inner triangles.
See more at I Spy DIY.
DIY Wall Mounted Bookshelves
Use a nailer, screws, and wood glue to assemble these DIY wall mounted bookshelves in no time. Apply a paint-and-stain technique to each shelf before mounting.
Get the tutorial at Refresh Living.
DIY Rustic Wood Shelves
Elevate the beauty of natural wood with this no-fuss DIY project. Sand your wood before you wax it for a smooth finish.
Get the tutorial from At Home with the Barkers.
DIY Industrial Pipe Open Shelves
Replace an old kitchen cabinet with these beautiful and functional DIY open shelves. Repurposed metal pipes add extra durability to keep heavier items on display.
See more at created by v.
DIY Copper & Wood Shelf
Full copper piping is expensive. Consider this budget-friendly DIY project instead, which uses wooden dowels to get the copper shelf look for less.
See more at Treasures & Travels.
DIY Floating Shelves for Uneven Walls
Working with uneven walls? These durable DIY floating shelves can be customized for any shape, size, width, and height.
See more at Shrimp Salad Circus.
DIY Bookcase with Angled Shelves
A build-your-own bookcase adds a boost of character to any open space. The key to this one? All the right angles.
See more at Brepurposed.
DIY Industrial Pipe Shelving Unit
Put your crafting skills to the test with this challenging (but worthwhile!) DIY rustic shelving unit. Start by measuring the length, width, and height of your chosen space. Adjust the pipe lengths as you go.
Get the tutorial at DIY Showoff.
DIY Rain Gutter Bookshelves
Turn plastic gutters into bright bookshelves with this genius DIY project. Apply paint with primer for a pristine finish.
See more at Repurpose and Upcycle.
DIY Coffee Table Bookshelf
Want a piece that stands out? Try this roll about DIY coffee table bookshelf, which was adapted from a wire spool.
See more at @restoring.order.
DIY Hanging Table Bookshelf
This suspended table is the perfect surface to hold your favorite book. Hang it in your bedroom, living room, or any room!
See more at The Merrythought.
DIY Wine Crate Bookshelf
Repurpose old wine crates with a fresh coat of wood stain for a warm and rustic feel. We adore this simple and budget-friendly project, which can be done for under $15 total.
See more at lark & linen.
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