How to Make a Ladder Bookshelf
- 1). Choose the location for the ladder bookshelf. Decide on the height, width and depth of the ladder bookshelf. The depth measurement chosen here will be the bottom, and largest, shelf, as the shelves get smaller toward the top.
- 2). Decide on the decrease in size for the shelves. For example, each shelf could decrease a half inch in size as you move up.
- 3). Draw the pieces needed for the bookshelf on the plywood. There should be two side pieces that have the height of the desired unit and a width of 3 to 4 inches. Each shelf will vary in size. Draw the bottom shelf first using the depth and width measurements. Make each shelf a bit smaller lengthwise. Continue until all of the shelves have been drawn for the ladder bookshelf
- 4). Cut out each piece with a saw. Sandpaper the edges and surfaces smooth to avoid splinters and cracks.
- 5). Place one of the side pieces against the wall, so the ½-inch side of the plywood is facing the wall. Decide the angle at which the shelf will be leaning. 10 degrees is a good starting point and the shelf can be altered easily by adding or subtracting degrees. Use the protractor to measure the degree chosen and to draw a line across the plywood. This line indicates where the cut will be made, so the piece can stand flat on the ground, but leaning against the wall.
- 6). Cut the bottom piece as required and repeat the step on the other side piece using the same angle measurements. Add self-adhesive foam grips to the bottom of each side piece. This will ensure the pieces do not slide on the floor.
- 7). Place one side piece down and measure from the bottom where each shelf will be attached. Keep in mind each shelf is ½-inch thick. Make marks to indicate where a shelf will start and stop. Do this for both side pieces, so the marks match up.
- 8). Locate each of the ½-inch sections just drawn on both side pieces. Drill two holes in each of these sections, spacing each hole at least one inch apart. Start by connecting the bottom shelf to one of the side pieces by lining it up with the marks. Screw screws into the holes just drilled and secure them tightly with a screwdriver. Attach the shelf to the other side piece as well, using the same method.
- 9). Attach each shelf using the same method as the first. When done, turn the unit right side up and see how the bookshelf forms a ladder. Paint or stain it as desired. When dry, add books to the ladder bookshelf.