How to Hide Clutter on a Bookcase

Purchase a variety of canvas or rattan baskets to place onto the bookcase shelves. Choose containers that will fit on the shelves. Another option is to use lidded hatboxes or photo boxes that you can stack on the shelves. Fill the baskets or boxes with the clutter, and attractively arrange the containers on the shelves.

Use a tape measure to measure the distance from the bottom of one shelf to the top of the next shelf. Measure the distance from side to side. Add 2 inches to both dimensions, and cut a piece of upholstery fabric with the dimensions. Fold under 1/2 inch along each side of the fabric, and press the folds well with an iron. Stitch the folded edge about 1/4 inch from the folds. Fold the edges another half inch, press them again, and stitch again 1/4 inch from the folds. Separate the halves of self-adhesive hook-and-loop fasteners, and remove the adhesive backing. Press the hook halves of the fasteners along the shelf above the shelf you wish to hide. Press the loop halves of the fasteners along the top edge of the hemmed fabric (on the backside of the fabric), lining up each half of the fasteners. Press the fabric piece onto the shelf by affixing the hook-and-loop fasteners to each other.

Measure the width of the bookcase with the tape measure. Purchase a roller window shade with a width that will fit the bookcase. Install the window shade on the inside right and left edges of the bookcase at the top of the shelf you wish to hide. Fit the window shade into the hardware, and pull down the shade to conceal the entire shelf.