Building a cube shelf is a satisfying project that can enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of any room in your home.
These versatile shelves provide ample storage space for books, decor, and personal items, while also serving as a stylish display feature. Whether you’re looking to organise your living space or create an eye-catching vignette, constructing a cube shelf can be an enjoyable weekend project. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the necessary materials, tools, and step-by-step instructions on how to make a cube shelf, tailored to fit your unique style and needs.
What is a Cube Shelf?
A cube shelf is a type of modular shelving unit characterised by its individual compartments that are typically shaped like cubes. These shelves come in various sizes and configurations, allowing for numerous design options to fit any space.
Cube shelves can be used both vertically and horizontally, making them highly adaptable for different room layouts and decorating styles. They are often crafted from materials such as wood, MDF, or metal, offering durability and versatility.
The distinct cubic design not only provides practical storage solutions but also enables creative displays, making it an ideal choice for organising books, displaying decor items, or even serving as a room divider.
Planning Your Cube Shelf
Before diving into the construction of your cube shelf, it’s essential to take some time to plan your design. Start by determining the dimensions that will best suit your space, considering both the height and width of the shelf. Measure the area where you plan to place the shelf to ensure a perfect fit. Next, think about the items you wish to store or display—this will influence the size of the individual cubed compartments.
Sketching a layout can help visualise the design and identify how many cubes you will need. Additionally, consider the style and finish of the shelf; whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more rustic vibe, selecting the right materials and colours will enhance the overall aesthetic of your room. Having a clear plan will streamline the building process and ensure your cube shelf meets your needs and complements your home decor.
10 Methods How to Make a Cube Shelf
1. Planning and Designing the Cube Shelf
The first step in making a cube shelf is to carefully plan and design the project. Begin by determining the purpose of the cube shelf—whether it will be used for storage, display, or as a decorative element.
Measure the space where the shelf will be placed to decide on the overall dimensions and the size of each cube. Consider the number of cubes you want and whether they will be uniform or varied in size. Sketch out your design on paper, including the height, width, and depth of each cube.
2. Choosing the Right Materials
Selecting the appropriate materials is crucial for building a sturdy and attractive cube shelf. Plywood, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), and solid wood are common choices for this type of project.
Plywood is often preferred for its strength and resistance to warping, while MDF offers a smooth surface that’s easy to paint. Solid wood provides a more traditional look and can be stained to highlight its natural grain. If you plan to paint or finish the shelf, consider the type of finish that will best complement the room where the shelf will be placed.
3. Cutting the Panels
Once you’ve selected your materials, the next step is to cut the panels that will form the cubes. Measure and mark the dimensions of each piece on your material. For a basic cube shelf, you will need six panels per cube—four for the sides and two for the top and bottom.
Use a table saw or circular saw to cut the panels to the desired size, ensuring that all cuts are straight and accurate. If you’re building multiple cubes, cut all the panels at once to ensure consistency in size. After cutting, sand the edges of each panel to remove any rough spots and to prepare them for assembly.
4. Drilling Pocket Holes or Pre-Drilling Screw Holes
To assemble the cube shelf, you’ll need to join the panels securely. One of the most effective methods for doing this is by using pocket holes. Pocket hole joinery involves drilling angled holes into one panel, into which screws can be inserted to attach it to another panel.
Use a pocket hole jig to drill these holes in the side panels of each cube, spacing the holes evenly along the edges. If you prefer, you can also pre-drill screw holes in the panels to prevent the wood from splitting when the screws are inserted.
5. Assembling the Cubes
With the panels cut and the holes drilled, you’re ready to assemble the cubes. Begin by attaching two side panels to a bottom panel, using wood glue and screws or pocket hole screws to secure the joints. Make sure the panels are square and aligned before tightening the screws.
Next, attach the top panel and the remaining two side panels in the same manner. For added strength, clamp the panels together while the glue dries. Once the glue has set, sand the assembled cube to smooth out any rough edges or joints. Repeat this process for each cube if you’re building a multi-cube shelf.
6. Finishing the Shelf
After assembling the cubes, it’s time to finish the shelf to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. Begin by sanding the entire surface of the cubes to remove any imperfections and to prepare them for painting or staining. If you plan to paint the shelf, apply a primer first to ensure even coverage and better adhesion of the paint.
For a natural wood finish, apply a wood stain to bring out the grain, followed by a protective topcoat such as polyurethane or lacquer. If you’re using MDF, consider painting the edges with a sealer before applying the finish, as MDF edges tend to absorb paint unevenly. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
7. Installing Back Panels (Optional)
While not essential, adding back panels to your cubes can enhance the stability of the shelf and give it a more finished appearance. Cut thin panels of plywood or MDF to fit the back of each cube.
Attach the panels using wood glue and small nails or screws, ensuring they are flush with the edges of the cube. The back panels can be left natural, stained, or painted to match or contrast with the rest of the shelf. Installing back panels helps prevent items from falling out the back of the cubes and adds rigidity to the structure, especially if the shelf will be freestanding or used to store heavier items.
8. Assembling the Cube Shelf Unit
If your design includes multiple cubes, the next step is to assemble them into a single shelf unit. You can arrange the cubes in a straight row, stack them vertically, or create a more complex arrangement by offsetting or staggering the cubes. Use wood glue and screws to attach the cubes to each other, ensuring that they are aligned and level.
If the shelf will be placed against a wall, consider attaching a mounting strip along the back of the cubes for added stability. Once the cubes are securely joined, sand the entire unit to smooth out any joints or edges that may have shifted during assembly.
9. Securing the Shelf to the Wall (Optional)
For taller or heavier cube shelf units, it’s a good idea to secure the shelf to the wall to prevent it from tipping over. Use L-brackets or angle brackets to attach the top or sides of the shelf to the wall studs.
Mark the location of the studs on the wall and pre-drill holes in both the shelf and the wall for the screws. Use long, sturdy screws to ensure a secure attachment. If your shelf is freestanding but placed against a wall, securing it will provide added safety, especially in homes with children or pets.
10. Organizing and Styling the Shelf
Once the cube shelf is complete and securely installed, the final step is to organize and style it to suit your needs. Use the cubes to store books, display decorative items, or organize everyday essentials.
Consider adding baskets or bins to some of the cubes for concealed storage. To create a balanced look, vary the height and type of items in each cube, mixing books with decorative objects like vases, plants, or framed photos.
If you’re using the shelf for a specific purpose, such as a media center or office storage, organize items logically and accessibly. The versatility of cube shelves allows for endless possibilities in organization and decoration, making them a practical and stylish addition to any room.
Conclusion
Building a cube shelf is a rewarding DIY project that not only enhances your storage solutions but also adds a personal touch to your home décor.
By following the steps outlined, from selecting materials to assembling the unit, you can create a functional and stylish piece that meets your specific organizational needs. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to make a cube shelf!
