Looking for new ways to add storage space to your work area? A simple bridge cabinet can be made to measure to store oversized or irregular items and placed at any height, high or low. Tie the room together with a custom touch by adding a matching riser and header for a prefab bookcase.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Measuring Tape
• Sharp Pencil
• Oak Sheet Material
• Glue Laminate
• Table Saw
• Hammer
• Nails
• Iron-on Oak Edge Tape
• Electric Iron
• Stain
• Finish
• Drill
• Studs
• Screws

INSTRUCTIONS

Carefully measure the dimensions of the alcove and the contents that will fill the shelves (i.e. 12” binders). Lay out the design.

Glue laminate to oversized pieces of ½” oak sheet material and let dry thoroughly.

Use a table saw to cut pieces to desired size. For interior dividers cut oversized blanks.

Assemble outside box and finish the front edges with iron-on oak edge tape.

Stain and finish all pieces.

Once finish is dry, trim interior dividers to fit tightly. Install from behind.

Secure back piece.

Locate studs in the wall for the desired location.

Use stud instructions to fasten the bridge cabinet securely to the wall.

DESIGN NOTES

Choose material based on the pre manufactured cabinets you are trying to match (i.e. brown black stain on oak)

We placed the Bridge Cabinet approximately 28” above the table.

Riser and Header for Prefab Bookcase

WHAT YOU NEED

• Measuring Tape
• Sharp Pencil
• Wood
• Table Saw
• Wood Glue
• Drill
• Studs
• Screws
• Stain (to match the existing unit)

INSTRUCTIONS

Carefully measure the total exterior dimensions of existing bookcase.

Add 1/8” to these measurements to determine the interior dimension of the riser and header.

Use a table saw to cut and assemble the four sides of the riser into a box.

Carefully measure the height of the bottom shelf of the bookcase and use this measurement to locate the height of the support ledge where the bookcase will rest.

Glue and screw ledge around the interior of the riser.

Repeat the same ledge process for the header.

Finish to match existing bookcase.

Position, level, and secure the riser.

Place pre existing bookcase into the riser.

Locate studs on the wall.

Secure to each other and to the wall ensuring that they are level.

Position and secure header.

DESIGN NOTES

On the episode the height of the bottom shelf on the bookcase measured 3 ½” on the episode. The height of the header will was approximately 5/8”.

Click here for this episode’s Resource Guide.