The Adjustable Desktop Bookshelf

A special gift project that is certain to be a great
seller for the holidays

This clever, adjustable shelf is perfect for keeping reference books handy on the desktop, kitchen counter or workbench...and it's fast and easy-to-build, as well. We used oak for our example, but any attractive hardwood such as maple, cherry or walnut will be equally attractive and salable.

Begin by cutting all pieces to size, according to the drawings. Cut a centered, 1-15/16" high x 1-1/2" wide “tongue” on the bottom of each bookend. Use your bandsaw or scroll saw to cut a 1-15/16" wide x 3/8" deep notch in one face of each brace, as shown in the drawings. Rough out the curves for the bookends and feet using your bandsaw, scroll saw or saber saw, then smooth them with a 2-1/4" Drum Sander and 1-1/2" Drum Sander. TIP: For added production speed, you may choose to temporarily stack the ends and feet in pairs using double-stick tape for sawing and sanding.

Glue the two stretchers to the spacers, clamp them together and set aside to dry. Glue and clamp the feet onto the ends of the stretchers as shown and set aside to dry. Sand the top and ends of this assembly.

Insert the adjustable bookends and glue the braces into place. Be careful to allow about 1/32" of clearance to allow easy operation. Stain and seal with a finish of your choice.

Assembly	Layout
Click to Enlarge	Click to Enlarge

Materials Page

Suggested retail price: $20