How to Make a Bookcase Into an Armoire

Measure the height and width of the bookshelf. Record these measurements.

Measure on a sheet of MDF, two pieces that are half the width by the full height of the bookshelf.

Cut these two pieces from the sheet of MDF using the table saw.

Sand the edges of the wood with a hand sander.

Lay the bookshelf flat on its back on the work surface. Place the two pieces of MDF on top and line the pieces with the edges of the bookcase.

Open the hinges and place one hinge ¼ of the way down from the top of the doors. Mark the location of the screw holes with a pencil. Repeat on the other door.

Place the last two hinges ¼ of the height up from the bottom of the doors. Mark the location of the screw holes with a pencil.

Drill pilot holes at each pencil mark using a drill bit that is just smaller than the hardware to install the hinges.

Replace the hinges, line up with the pilot holes and attach with screws. Repeat for each hinge.

Place the two handles on the front of the doors. Decide where you want to install them – either in the middle of the doors or along the top – and mark the location of the screws with a pencil.

Drill all the way through the doors at each pencil mark.

Insert the hardware for the handles through the backside of the door and into the handles.

Paint or stain the doors to match the rest of the bookcase.