Custom Bookcase Ideas

Paint

• Paint is a fast and easy way to transform an existing bookcase. Try painting the inside back and sides white or a light color and leave the outside and shelves a dark color. This will create a distinctive two-tone look and brighten the interior of the bookcase, which will highlight the items on display in it. You can also experiment with different painting techniques to create textured or antique effects.

Wallpaper

• Wallpaper or adhesive contact paper will add a truly custom look to your bookcase. Remove the shelves and line the inside back and sides with the wallpaper for a fun and original look. Alternatively, try just wrapping the shelves in paper. Explore other paper options such as posters or antique maps. Simply glue them to the bookcase and seal them with acrylic spray.

Shapes

• Bookcases don't always have to be square. You can use shelving to create different bookcase silhouettes on a wall. Try arranging the shelves in random patterns and even slope them up or down. Just be sure to add a bolt or piece of wood at the end of any downward sloping shelves. You can bolt small ready-made bookcases to the wall at different angles as another option for creating different shapes. There are also plenty of bookcases available in different shapes, including many curved-wood styles.

Objects

• Many objects that are not intended as bookcases can function as such. Old milk crates can be stacked on top of one another to create a bookcase with an industrial look. Their interlocking design is usually sturdy enough, but for added security secure them to one another with thick plastic ties. Storage cubes stacked together will also make great bookcases. Experiment by attaching the cubes to one another in a diamond-shaped pattern. Old drawers, with a little work, can also be assembled to create a bookcase.

Lighting

• Lighting is another inexpensive and easy way to customize your existing bookcases. There are a number of bookcase lights and lamps already available. Most of them are lights with a base that rests on the top of the bookcase while the light hangs down over the shelving. Most drug stores and discount department stores also sell small adhesive press-on LED lights. These lights run on batteries and can be fixed to the underside of each shelf to light up the whole space.