Project details
This bookshelf is sized so the carcass fits on a single 4×8 sheet of 3/4" plywood with room to spare. The sides run the full 72" height. The top and bottom sit between the sides, so their length is the outside width minus two panel thicknesses (30 − 1.5 = 28.5").
Shelves are 3/4" shallower than the case so a 1/4" back panel can sit in a rabbet without pushing the shelves forward. If you plan to skip the back, make the shelves the full 12" depth.
Additional materials
| Part | Size (in) | Quantity | Material | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Back panel | 29.25 × 71.25 | 1 | 1/4" plywood | Not on the 3/4" layout above; cut from a separate 1/4" sheet. |
| Face frame or edge banding | About 26 linear ft | 1 | 3/4" hardwood or iron-on banding | Optional. Use the board calculator for solid-wood strips. |
Cutting sequence
- Check the sheet
Measure the real sheet. Many 4×8 panels are a hair over 48 × 96, and some import panels are slightly under.
- Rip the sides first
Cut the two 12" wide side pieces along the length of the sheet, then cut the shelf material from the remaining width.
- Cut shelves to width, then length
Crosscut the 28.5" pieces from the rips so the ends match exactly.
- Dry fit before joinery
Stand the sides up with the top and bottom in place and confirm the shelf length before drilling shelf-pin holes.
Questions
Can I make it taller than 72"?
A 4×8 sheet gives you 96" of length, so the sides can go up to 96" less any trim. Above 84" a 3/4" side without a fixed middle shelf will start to bow, so add a fixed shelf near the center.
How much does the kerf matter here?
With eight cuts on one sheet, a 1/8" blade removes about an inch of material. That is why the calculator reserves kerf between neighboring parts instead of assuming perfect nesting.