How to Build a Cabinet from a Bookshelf and Shutters

A compact cabinet offers just enough storage to tuck away essentials in a family room, bathroom, or bedroom. But if you have a limited budget for this handy piece, you won't find many design options out there. So we turned to TOH general contractor Tom Silva for some DIY advice. He demonstrated how to attach off-the-shelf fixed-louver shutters to an inexpensive, ready-to-assemble bookcase to make a charming cabinet that's easy on the wallet. With a few finishing touches, like trim and bun feet, this piece will spiff up any room you put it in, and it takes just a few hours to build. Read on to learn how.

Ameriwood white bookcase, Gatehouse wood cabinet knobs, Waddell pine round bun feet; available at Lowe's.
Traditional full-louvered shutters; Exterior Solutions.
Paint: Valspar's Cincinnatian Hotel Carl Tan; Valspar Paint

Download the cut list to build a cabinet from a bookshelf and shutters.