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  • Bas-Relief Bookshelf
  • From "DIY Crafts"
    episode DIC-251
    advertisement

    Click here to view a larger image.

    It's hard to tell this bookshelf from the real thing -- until you reach for one of the treasured tomes and reveal the secret!

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    Figure A

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    Figure B

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    Figure C

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    Figure D

    Carolyn Truscott created the look of any old library for her own home using this bas-relief technique. To start this project, she says, you'll need to collect old hardback books that are damaged or broken. Although she created her project on a fairly large scale -- complete with architectural details -- a simpler version can easily be created with simple molding.

    Materials:

    Old hardback books
    Particleboard
    Flat black paint
    3 x 4 or other wood
    Molding or trim
    Saw
    Nails
    Glue

    1. Cut spine away from book (figure A) and repeat for other books.

    2. Determine how thick you want the "bookcase" to be. If you'll be using an architectural detail at the top, you'll want the bookshelves to be at least as thick (usually 2" to 5").

    3. Cut particleboard in the same shape of the architectural detail, as well as a long piece that will fit behind the books. Paint the particleboard black to create the illusion of depth.

    4. Use pieces of wood to build up the particleboard. Frame the shelves and top with trim molding (figure B) that has been stained or painted to match the architectural detail at top. Nail boards into place (figure C).

    5. Decide where books will be placed and measure placement of shelves accordingly.

    6. Cut pieces of molding for the "shelves" and glue or nail them to particleboard backing.

    7. Place books on shelves (figure D).

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