How to Build a Homemade Cube Shelf

A cube shelf is a simple, convenient solution for the storage or display of household objects like books, DVDs and souvenirs. Making your own cube shelf is an excellent way to enhance the appearance of a room while conserving space. By following the steps below, you can easily and inexpensively construct your own piece of homemade shelving.

Step 1: Wood Choice

First decide what type of wood you'd like to use. For an naturallyprofessional look, fiberboard or wood panel are excellent choices and can be found at most home improvement centers. In this example, we'll be using plywood due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility. Consider what room you'd like to place your cube shelf in. This will dictate what color of paint or stain you select.

Step 2: Measure and Sand

Measure each piece of plywood. Mark them to be 1 foot in length and 1.5 feet in width. Saw the plywood pieces accordingly until they are cut to specification. You don't want any splinters or cuts, so use the sandpaper to sand any rough edges or bumps from the plywood. Now lightly sand all surfaces of the wood for a smooth finish.

Step 3: Paint

Paint or stain each piece of wood as you see fit. Allow the wood to dry for at least 24 hours before continuing.

Step 4: Glue the Main Pieces

Place a line of wood glue onto the edge of one piece of plywood. Do the same to the edge of another piece. Now place the pieces perpendicular to one another so that the lines of glue intermingle and the edges are flush. Use the T-square to double-check your work. Repeat this process for the other two pieces of plywood. You should now have two "L"-shaped pieces.

Step 5: Glue the "L" Pieces

Using the same technique described in Step 4, affix the two "L"-shaped pieces of wood together, once again making sure the edges are flush. Allow the glue to set for 1 hour before proceeding.

Step 6: Wood Screws

Use wood screws to secure the bond between each glued set of edges. Three screws should be affixed per bond: one at ½-inch from the edge, another at the 15-inch mark, and another at on the side opposite that of the first screw. Repeat this process for each edge of the cube. Allow the glue to fully dry overnight before proceeding.

Step 7: Finish Up

Examine the cube for glue run-off and delicately remove any you see with your fingers. Scraping away excess glue will damage the paint on the cube. Affix the metal braces to the inside corners of the cube using the screwdriver.

Your homemade cubing shelf is ready to be mounted. For an additional modular design, try constructing a few more cubes and attaching them to one another. Cube shelves can also be turned on their side and mounted to look like diamonds, adding an extra stylistic flourish to your room. Whatever style you decide on, these shelves are a flexible and convenient way to get the most out of your living space.