How to Make a DVD Storage

Determine where you want the shelf to go. This will determine how big of a unit you can make. With this, figure out how many DVDs you need to store in this unit. Using the size of a DVD (a DVD case is a 1/2 inch wide, and about 8 inches tall), you can determine how large of a structure to build. So, for instance, if you'd like to build a large DVD shelf that can hold 500 DVDs, the finished product will measure about 38 inches across and 74 inches high. Make sure you have enough space for the DVDs you want to display--if you don't, you may have to construct two separate DVD shelves (which would use the same following process, just with different measurements).

Cut the 1"x6" boards down to their proper size. You will need two 74 inch-long boards, and eight 36 inch-long boards.

Place your 36 inch-long 2"x6" board at a right angle to a 74 inch-long 1"x6" board. Place the thicker board at the bottom of the 74 inch side. You should have made an "L" shape. Use your T-square to ensure that it is perfectly perpendicular.

Use your drill to screw two wood screws into the side board, connecting it and the base board together. Continue using your T-square to ensure the boards remain in their proper place.

Use a tape measure and measure 8 1/2 inches up the side board from the base board. At this 8 1/2 inch mark, use your T-square, drill and 2 wood screws to adhere a 1"x6" 36 inch-long shelf to the side of the DVD case.

Repeat step 5 with the 7 remaining DVD shelves, positioning them at 8 1/2 inch intervals. Use your drill, T-Square, and wood screws to ensure that the shelves are in their proper places.

Place the last 74-inch piece of wood on the open side of the DVD shelf. If done properly, each of the unit's shelves should have been connected to one side board, with their opposite ends hanging free for the moment. At this step, using your measuring tape, T-Square, drill and screws, drill the other side board onto the free ends of the base and shelf. Make sure that the shelves remained squared off and level (use a bubble level), or else your DVDs may slide to one side.

Use your circular saw to cut your plywood piece down to its proper size. You will need it 1/4 inch shorter on each dimension than the actual size of the shelf. That is, cut the plywood to be 37 3/4 inches wide, and 73 3/4 inches tall. This will prevent the plywood from sticking out past the dimensions of the shelf and produce a cleaner look for your unit.

Use your tacking nails and hammer and secure the plywood to the back of the previously constructed shelf. Place at least every 6 inches, for a total of 40 nails. You can place more nails, or less, depending on your preferences.

Sand and paint the shelf if you desire. If you'd prefer a simple wooden look, simply stand it up and test its durability. If you'd like to paint or stain it, sand the outside wood and apply a layer of stain or paint to it. Allow it to dry before placing DVDs on the shelf to store.