How to Build an Enclosed Shelf

Draw a sketch of the enclosed shelf that you intend to build. Include height, width and length dimensions. To simplify construction, consider setting the width of the boards to a standard milling width of 4, 6, 8, 10 or 12 inches. Draw a four-sided box. The top and bottom planks will be cut to the length of the shelf. The planks that form the sides of the box are cut to the height of the shelf, minus twice the thickness of the plank. Note the dimensions of the sides, top and bottom of the box on your sketch.

Refer to the dimensions on your sketch to measure and mark the lumber to make the top panel. Use a carpenter's square to draw a perpendicular line across the plank. Trim the plank on the cutting line. Repeat, using the same dimensions, to cut the bottom panel. Measure, mark and cut two side panels to the dimensions noted on your sketch.

Assemble the panels on a flat surface to form a box, with its openings horizontal. It is important to construct the box so the ends of the top and bottom panels are positioned on the outside of the end panels. Apply a bead of wood glue along each of the four corner joints. With the box assembled and the joints glued, wrap a piece of wide masking tape horizontally around the box. Stop at each corner joint. Use a carpenter's square to ensure that each joint is perpendicular. Allow the glue to dry, according to the manufacturer's directions.

Remove the tape. Turn the box so the top and bottom panels are horizontal. Use a carpenter's square and pencil to mark a line on each end of the upper panel. The lines should be positioned parallel to the cut end of the plank. The distance from the edge of the plank to the line is one-half the thickness of the lumber. Pilot holes will be drilled through these lines so the fastening screws will enter the centers of the adjoining planks. Turn the box over. Draw pilot-hole position lines on the opposite panel.

Measure and mark the pilot hole positions on each of the lines. The marks should be evenly spaced, approximately 2-inches apart. Using a drill and countersink bit, drill pilot holes through each mark. The depressions made by the countersink bit should be about 1/4-inch deep.

Install a driving bit in the drill. Screw one wood screw or drywall screw into each countersunk pilot hole. Fill the depressions in the planks with wood putty. Wipe off excess putty. Once the putty has dried, according to the manufacturer's directions, sand the enclosed shelf to smooth the wood.