Install & Secure Bookcase in Alcove
From Under-Stair Shelving · Step 10 of 10 · Video by Badger Workshop
Showing 3:20–4:12 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
Carefully maneuver the fully assembled bookcase into the prepared alcove. Due to the tight fit, some slight angling and force may be required. Once the bookcase is positioned correctly at the desired level, secure it to the floorboards by driving screws through the bottom horizontal piece. To prevent tipping and ensure stability, create a simple L-shaped bracket by screwing a metal bracket onto a small piece of scrap wood. Attach this bracket to the underside of the top shelf and then screw it securely into the wall at the back of the alcove. This ensures the bookcase is firmly anchored at both the top and bottom.
What's used
Tools
- Drill/Driver
- Metal L-Bracket
- Scrap Wood Piece
- Wall Plugs/Anchors
- Wood Screws
About the full video
This project details the process of building a custom bookcase to fit precisely into a wall alcove, effectively boxing in existing pipes and providing ample storage for books. The steps cover initial preparation like removing skirting, cutting and sanding scaffold boards, assembling the modular frame and shelves, and finally installing and securing the bookcase into the alcove with a custom-fitted face frame.
What's said in this clip
had shelves of three different spacings now when I've measured this up I wanted it to be a tight fit so they would box in the pipes and go straight after that cornice but actually trying to maneuver in I was worried for a second it wouldn't fit but it did just again it pushed in to the level I wanted and then I got some screws through the base into the floorboards a lil bit of scrap wood and put an l-shaped bracket on it this is then getting me attach the underside of the top shelf and it could be tied into the wall so now the whole thing is a secure at the top and the bottom and is going nowhere Tom I lost books in place you'll never see this bracket the bookcase is now hiding all
Automatically transcribed from the source video.
Step 10 of 10: Install the Shelving Unit
Position the shelving unit into the designated under-stair area. If the unit is built to fit snugly, you may need to angle it slightly to get it into place. Once positioned, secure the unit to the wall studs or floor using L-brackets or screws, ensuring it is stable and level.
Every video in Under-Stair Shelving
Step 1: Measure the Under-Stair Space
- 1:09–1:46 Measure, Cut, and Test-fit
- 0:09–1:25 Initial Measurements and Platform Design
Step 2: Design the Shelving Unit
- 0:13–0:17 Install Modular Shelving Frames
- 2:57–3:12 Construct Wider Center Shelves
Step 3: Create a Cut List
- 3:46–5:30 Create Cut List and Verify Thickness
- 0:38–1:39 Prepare Lumber and Cut List
- 0:02–0:04 Cut and Prepare Lumber
Step 4: Purchase Materials
- 0:00–0:03 Gather Materials and Tools
- 0:00–0:17 Gather Materials and Tools
- 0:00–0:49 Gather Tools and Materials
Step 5: Cut the Materials
- 1:03–2:43 Cut All Lumber to Size
- 1:18–1:29 Cut Timber to Length
- 0:11–0:58 Cut and Rip Lumber
Step 6: Sand All Pieces
- 1:24–1:29 Sand All Components
- 2:06–2:19 Sand All Cut Pieces
- 0:27–0:30 Sand Wood Pieces
Step 7: Assemble the Main Frame
- 2:26–2:55 Assemble Main Shelf Box
- 1:05–1:57 Assemble Vertical Side Frames
- 0:06–0:11 Assemble the Main Frame
Step 8: Install Shelves
- 5:42–6:03 Install Reinforced Shelves
- 4:56–5:53 Install Internal Divider Shelves
- 5:19–5:45 Install Shelves
Step 9: Finish the Unit
- 0:39–0:49 Paint and Install Hardware
- 0:43–0:49 Paint All Wood Components
- 12:47–13:48 Apply Wood Finish
Step 10: Install the Shelving Unit
- 3:20–4:12 Install & Secure Bookcase in Alcove (this video)
- 3:22–6:20 Install Shelf Units and Supports
- 0:13–0:17 Install Modular Shelving Frames
Questions about Under-Stair Shelving
What are the essential tools I need for accurate measurements in an angled under-stair space?
Beyond a standard measuring tape and pencil, an angle finder or a protractor is crucial for accurately capturing the slope of the stairs. Also, a long straight edge or level will help you mark level lines and check for plumb, ensuring your shelves are straight and true despite the angled surroundings.
Beyond basic hand tools, what power tools would make this under-stair shelving project easier for a beginner?
A miter saw or circular saw with a guide will significantly improve the accuracy and speed of cutting your lumber, especially for repetitive cuts and angles. An electric orbital sander is also highly recommended to efficiently prepare all pieces for finishing, saving you hours compared to hand sanding.
What are the most important safety precautions I should take when cutting and assembling lumber for this project?
Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from sawdust and flying debris. Use hearing protection when operating power tools and ensure your work area is clean and well-lit to prevent accidents. Make sure all lumber is securely clamped or supported before cutting to avoid kickback.
The project is listed as 'beginner' and '3 days'. Is this estimated time realistic for someone completely new to woodworking?
While classified as beginner, the 3-day estimate often assumes some prior familiarity with tools and a focused work schedule. If you're completely new, allow for extra time, especially for careful measuring, precise cutting, and thorough finishing, as these steps are critical for a professional-looking result. Don't rush the process.
What's a common mistake beginners make when measuring for under-stair shelving, and how can I avoid it?
A frequent mistake is not fully accounting for irregularities in the wall or floor, or failing to precisely capture the stair's varying angles, leading to shelves that don't fit snugly. To avoid this, create a detailed template using cardboard or scrap material for complex angles, and always 'measure twice, cut once' to confirm dimensions.
Are there alternative materials to dimensional lumber that might be easier for a beginner or offer a different look for under-stair shelving?
Plywood or MDF (medium-density fiberboard) can be good alternatives, often providing flatter surfaces and being easier to cut into large panels for shelves and backs. These materials typically require edge banding or painting for a finished appearance, which might add a different aesthetic and complexity to the finishing steps. Consider pre-made shelving kits for the simplest approach, though customization will be limited.
Under-Stair Shelving
Design and construct open shelving or a bookcase unit to fit within the under-stair space, maximizing storage and aesthetic appeal.
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