How to Build Bookcases with Hinged Desk Fold-Outs

Lay three of the plywood sheets down on the floor. On all three of them, draw the same rectangular shape measuring 80 inches by 20 inches. Two of the panels are for the bookcase’s sides while the third is for the back panel.

Draw five rectangles for the shelves and the fold-out desk on the fourth piece of plywood, measuring 18 inches by 20 inches. Use the ruler to make the lines straight.

Turn on the circular saw and cut out all eight plywood pieces for the bookshelf and fold-out desk. Use the sandpaper to smooth all sides, edges and surfaces.

Lay the two side panels down on the 1-inch sides so the panels are resting on the lengthy side. Place them across from one another. Take two of the five smaller shelving pieces and place them in between the two side panels in a perpendicular manner. The four panels must create a rectangular bookshelf frame. Nail them together using a hammer and the 2-inch nails to secure the frame.

Lay the last large panel on top of the frame so the entire frame’s perimeter is covered. Nail the back panel to the frame using the 2-inch nails and the hammer. The nails must be placed evenly apart by at least 2-inch spaces. Turn the unit around, creating a box.

Place the measuring tape from one end panel and measure 30 inches along the 80-inch side. At the 30-inch mark, place one of the remaining three shelving pieces and then place it into the bookshelf frame so it creates a shelf. Line it up evenly, using the level, and nail it in place by hammering the nails through the sides into the shelf.

Repeat the shelving procedure for an additional shelf between the installed shelf and the top panel, placing the shelf somewhere between the 30-inch mark and the top 80-inch height of the bookshelf. Install it in the same manner as the previous shelf, using nails and the hammer.

Turn the entire unit right-side up so the bookshelf stands upright. Lay the fifth shelving piece on top of the 30-inch-high shelf. Place one of the hinges on the already-installed shelf and install it using the half-inch screws and a screwdriver. Close the other end of the hinge onto the loosely placed shelf and secure it with additional screws. Repeat this step with the second hinge so the hinges are spaced at least 10 inches apart. When it's secured, fold out the desk for use.