Steps:

  • Mark desired lengths for the poplar and cut on a miter saw.
  • Rip desired widths on the table saw.
  • Rip the plywood to size on the table saw.
  • Use a router with a rabbeting bit to cut rabbets on the pieces for the sides and the top for the plywood.
  • Square off the rounded corner from the router with a chisel.
  • To set the radius on the bottom of the sides, trace a round object like a plastic bucket or paint can and then cut the radius with a jigsaw.
  • Use the roundover bit in the router to smooth the leading edges.
  • For the top edge, drop the roundover bit lower to create a shadow line.
  • Pre-drill holes for the dividers in the top and bottom.
  • Glue each joint using wood glue, then screw the pieces together using trim head screws.
  • Mark the location of the dividers on the back. Add glue, then secure the back with 1” nails.
  • Sand the piece.
  • Prime all surfaces.
  • Fill the screw holes with wood filler.
  • Apply a top coat of paint in desired color.

Resources:

Tom built the shelf out of 1x4 and 1x10 poplar plus ¼” plywood. He used trim head screws and wood glue to secure everything, then finally attached coat hooks. All items used for this project can be found in a home center.

Project details

Skill

Cost

Estimated Time

Tools

Tools & Materials

  • Miter saw
  • Table saw
  • router
  • Rabbeting router bit
  • Roundover router bit
  • chisel
  • Jigsaw
  • Drill/driver