How to Make a Children's Bookcase

Cut the pieces for the bookcase, which will be 3 feet high and 2 feet wide when finished. Cut two 1-by-12-inch boards to a length of 36 inches for the sides of the bookcase. Cut one 1-by-12-inch board 24 inches long for the top. Cut three 1-by-12-inch boards 22 1/2 inches wide for the shelves. Cut one piece of 1/8-inch paneling to a measurement of 36 by 24 inches to form a bookcase back. Cut one 1-by-3-inch board to a length of 24 inches for a kickboard.

Place one side panel perpendicular to the top board, letting that board extend to the outside edge of the side panel. Use a T-square to ensure that the pieces are square. Join the pieces together with wood glue. Nail the pieces at 2-inch intervals using 2-inch finishing nails and a hammer.

Place the bottom shelf piece 3 inches from the bottom edge of the side panel. Attach the shelf with wood glue. Secure with 2-inch finishing nails.

Position the remaining side panel on the opposite side of your shelves. Square the edges with the T-square. Glue the side panel in place, attaching it to the top and bottom boards. Secure with 2-inch finishing nails creating a frame for your bookshelves.

Place the cut piece of paneling on the back of the frame. Nail the paneling to the top, sides and bottom of the bookshelf using 1-inch finishing nails. Place a nail every 4 inches.

Turn the bookcase on its back. Position the middle shelves in the bookcase frame at heights that will accommodate your child's books. Mark the positions with a pencil.

Apply wood glue to the ends and back edges of the shelves. Slide the shelves into position in the frame. Have an assistant hold the shelves in place as you secure them with nails from the outside.

Position the kickboard along the front of the bookcase, keeping it flush with the bottom shelf. Apply wood glue to hold the board in place. Secure the kick board with 2-inch finishing nails.

Fill all nail holes with wood putty. Sand the filled areas to a smooth finish. Wipe the entire surface with a tack cloth, removing all dust particles.

Apply a coat of wood primer to all surfaces of the bookcase.

Paint your bookcase in colors to suit the room décor.