Build in bookshelf suppliers

[JoeS]

Hi All,

I have a full wall I want covered in bookshelves - I'd like the look to be as a traditional build in library style set of shelves in a traditional wood finish.

Now I would usually just make something, but I am really short on time this year. I don't mind doing some scribing and cutting some cover pieces/base board - but I really can't be making the whole damn bookshelf.

Does anyone have a supplier who does "pre-fab" bookshelves which I could then fit with a nice classic library look using decent materials?

Regards
Joe

 

[akirk]

Ikea Billy bookcases...

then look up on youtube how people have modified them to do exactly what you are after

 

[Spectric]

There was a really good post on here about a library build, maybe @Doug B or @Doug71 that gave me some good ideas. For what you are doing the only difference really with bookshelves is that buying them you get the material you are given and it is either assembled or ready to assemble, do it yourself you buy the material you want and then just assemble. If you have a Lamello P2 that always look likes a good option to join sheet goods just expensive.

 

[Spectric]

Corrections, it was @Mjward not a Doug.

 

[recipio]

They can be as cheap as chips or run into thousands. I think it depends on the projected lifetime. Most people opt for a veneered board but for the past few years I use cut down flush doors. The trick is to find an acceptable finish and reinforce the cut edges with glued in softwood battens.

 

[Spectric]

but for the past few years I use cut down flush doors

Some pictures would show us how you turn doors into shelves.

 

[Mjward]

Hi Joe

If you scroll through this thread you can see my home library I finished last month

https://www.ukworkshop.co.uk/threads/home-library.147036/page-5#post-1749320

Making from scratch vs pre-built is a long discussion but ultimately, if you find pre-builts that fit your space well then they're a great time saver and can be finished off with your own style. My TikTok feed is filled with the Ikea bookcase hack and I think they can be made to look absolutely fantastic.

If you're looking for a wood finish however, in need a speedy build, I would suggest a couple of options. Veenered plywood sheets, would give you the strength, speed and finish, can always add hardwood edges/lips for further strength but also to replace end grain with something more aesthetically pleasing. I used sapele for all my shelf edges, finished with a beaded edge. The other option is to look at pre-built pine bookcases. Only this morning did I see 4 listed on FB marketplace, full size, 5 pounds each. Put them on a plinth, add a nice face frame, some cornice and skirting and they would look fantastic and very "built-in".