How To Build a DIY Leaning Ladder Bookcase

A leaning ladder bookcase is a simple and affordable DIY project that provides an attractive way to display books, plants, and decorative items. In the video above, This Old House expert, Jenn Largesse, demonstrates how to construct a DIY ladder shelf using basic woodworking skills and readily available materials. This guide walks you through what you need and how to do it.

Materials and Tools Needed for a Leaning Ladder Bookcase

Gather all the necessary materials and tools before starting the construction process. This project requires lumber, hardware, and some basic woodworking equipment.

You can find these items at your local hardware store or online. The total cost depends on the grade of wood you buy and whether you’re using leftover materials from other projects. Renting tools instead of buying them can also save money.

Lumber and Hardware

Get the following lumber and hardware:

• Five pieces of 1-inch by 2-inch by 8-foot boards
• Two pieces of 1-inch by 4-inch by 6-foot boards
• One sheet of ¾-inch by 2-foot by 4-foot plywood project panel
• 1¼-inch pocket hole screws
• Wood glue
• ¾-inch edge banding (optional, for a polished look)
• Paint or stain for finishing (your choice of color)

Tools

Gather these tools:

• Pencil and tape measure
• Speed square
• Drill/driver
• Miter saw
• Circular saw
• Clamps
• Level
• Random orbital sander
• Clothes iron (if using edge banding)
• Safety goggles and ear protection

Cutting the Bookcase Wood

The first step in building your ladder bookcase is cutting the wood to the correct sizes. Double-check your measurements and cut the pieces with precision so they fit together properly.

Cutting the Frame Pieces

Cut the pieces according to these specifications:

1. Cut two 1-by-2-inch boards to 70⅞ inches for the back legs.
2. Cut two 1-by-2-inch boards to 72″ for the front legs, mitering both ends at parallel 9-degree angles.
3. Cut two 1-by-2-inch pieces to 2½” for the top of each leg, mitering one end at 9 degrees.

Cutting the Shelves and Supports

You can adjust the dimensions of the shelves and supports to customize the shelves for your space and needs. For this project, use the following dimensions:

1. Rip the plywood sheet into five shelves of these depths with a width of 24 inches:
   • 14 inches
   • 11¾ inches
   • 9½ inches
   • 7¼ inches
   • 5¼ inches
2. Cut five 1-by-4-inch supports to the same width as the plywood sheet, 24 inches each.

Cutting the Side Pieces

Cut ten 1-by-2-inch pieces for the sides of the bookcase:

• Two at 3⅝ inches
• Two at 5⅞ inches
• Two at 8 inches
• Two at 10¼ inches
• Two at 12½ inches

In the video, Largesse recommends cutting the top and bottom cross pieces first, then fitting the remaining pieces for perfect joints. Custom fitting helps achieve a more refined look.

Assembling the Leaning Ladder Bookcase Frame

After cutting all the pieces, you can assemble the frame of your ladder bookcase. Make sure you have a clean, flat workspace to handle the assembly process.

Creating the Side Assemblies

Follow these steps to create the sides of the bookcase:

1. Mark the shelf heights on the back legs at 6, 20, 34, 48, and 62 inches. These marks will guide the placement of the crosspieces.
2. Drill pocket holes in the ends of the top and bottom cross pieces, preparing them for attachment.
3. Attach the top and bottom cross pieces to the front and back legs using glue and screws.
4. Check that the assembled side is level and plumb using a level tool.
5. Cut and fit the remaining cross pieces, drilling pocket holes for attachment.
6. Attach all cross pieces to complete both side assemblies.

Joining the Sides

This process creates the basic structure of your ladder bookcase:

1. Cut five 1-by-4-inch boards to 24 inches for shelf supports.
2. Drill two pocket holes in each end of the 1-by-4-inch boards.
3. Attach the 1-by-4-inch boards to one side assembly, aligning with the shelf heights.
4. Connect the second side assembly to the 1-by-4-inch boards, completing the frame structure.

Installing the Bookcase Shelves

The final major step in constructing your ladder bookcase is installing the shelves as follows:

1. Drill pocket holes along the underside of each shelf on the sides and back edge, avoiding alignment with existing fasteners.
2. Apply wood glue to the sides and back edge of each shelf to ensure a strong bond.
3. Slide each shelf into place, ensuring it’s flush with the bottom edge of the surrounding boards.
4. Secure the shelves using the pocket holes you drilled earlier.

Finishing Touches on the Leaning Ladder Bookcase

To complete your DIY ladder bookcase, take these final steps for a polished, professional look:

Sanding and Smoothing

Sanding the bookcase will give it a smoother appearance and make the edges safer. Here’s how to sand and smooth it:

1. Fill any visible pocket holes, especially those on the uppermost cross pieces, with wood filler.
2. Sand the entire assembly, starting with medium-grit sandpaper and finishing with fine-grit sandpaper.
3. Pay special attention to any rough edges or joints to create a smooth surface.

Applying Edge Banding

For a professional finish, Largesse suggests using edge banding on the front edge of each shelf. This thin wood veneer can be easily applied with a hot iron and trimmed to size, creating a seamless look that’s especially beneficial if you plan to stain the bookcase. Largesse demonstrates how to apply edge banding In the video.

Painting or Staining

Painting or staining the ladder bookcase puts your personal touch on it and allows you to customize it to your space. Follow these steps:

1. Choose between paint or stain based on your personal preference and home decor.
2. Apply the finish according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring even coverage.
3. Consider adding a clear protective coat for added durability, which will extend the life of your bookcase.

Our Conclusion

Building a DIY leaning ladder bookcase is a rewarding project that combines style and function. This project not only saves money compared to store-bought versions but also allows for personalization in size, finish, and style.