Slanted DIY Bookshelf – A Different Approach

Is a bookshelf still contemporary today? Or has digitalization long since replaced the classic book? My clear opinion: yes and no!

Turning real pages, inhaling the typical book smell – that’s an experience that shouldn’t be left to the past. And as a piece of furniture, a bookshelf is fantastic: it not only looks smart but also absorbs sound and creates a cozy atmosphere.

But why do most bookshelves always look the same? Why not think outside the box – or even slanted?

That’s how my idea for a slanted bookshelf came about. It’s simple to build, a real eye-catcher – and requires no screws at all!

First: the dimensions. Since the construction is not meant to bear heavy loads, it’s advisable to keep it smaller. I chose these dimensions: 140 cm wide, 180 cm high, 20 cm deep.

Important: Because the slot system is slightly stretched apart when unloaded, the shelf is initially about 10% taller than it will be once assembled.

I used old boards I found in the attic – nicely aged and thus dimensionally stable. They also give the shelf a charming retro look.

I sanded the boards with an angle grinder and scrubbing disc – not the dust-friendliest method, so: wear a mask, safety glasses, and ear protection! Of course, you can also use sandpaper or an orbital sander – the important thing is that you like the result.

You’ll find the dimensions for the individual boards in the attached image. Of course, you can adjust these depending on space and taste.

The connections use a simple slot system. You cut a notch into each board to be connected so that they fit exactly into each other. This also determines the final height of the shelf.

Mark & cut notches
• Mark the notches up to the middle of the board.
• Saw along left and right with a jigsaw or hand saw.
• With a sharp hit, the middle piece breaks out.
• If the backside is uneven: smooth it with a chisel or carefully rework with the jigsaw.

Once all boards are prepared, it’s time to slot them together. This requires some patience – it’s best to plan in advance which side gets which notches to avoid mix-ups.

In the end, the shelf should stand firmly. Don’t forget the load test! If something still wobbles or a board bends, you can reinforce critical spots with small metal brackets.

A slanted bookshelf is not only a real eye-catcher but also a great DIY project. It combines functionality, design, and craftsmanship – all without screws!