Modular Bookshelf Hutch
Do you need extra storage in your desk area? Adding bookshelf hutch towers to a desk system create tons more storage in an easy to access height. It also looks beautiful and give a desk a high end, built-in look. This is a DIY project plan that will help you build your own bookshelf hutches for your desk, so you can save money and get the exact size and finish you need. The plans include video tutorial, configurator, recommended dimensions, diagrams, and more from MATCHING PLAN: Build the Modular Desk Bases Here
Specifications
| Project type | Hutch Plans |
|---|---|
| Room | Storage Solutions |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
3/4" hardwood plywood, ripped into strips 11-1/4" wide (maple or birch plywood recommended for painted finish)
3/4" wide edge banding in matching wood veneer
1/4" plywood for the back in matching wood veneer
1x2 for face frame in matching wood veneer (pine or poplar most economical for painted finish)
1x4 for back bay support
Cut List
Cut list for the plywood is generated in the Design App
1/4" plywood for the back is cut to fit
1x2s for the face frame should be cut to fit
1x4 bay support is cut to match the cut length of the shelves
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
- compound miter saw
- table saw
- nailer
- sander
- Iron
Step-by-step Instructions
Custom Design Your Hutches
Use Ana's Design Tool to create the dimensions and cut list for your hutches and download the plans. The parameters I entered are as follows: • Depth: 11.25" • Height: 56" • Width: 18" • Number of Shelves: 4 • Distance between shelves: 12.5" starting at the bottom, the distance left at the top shelf was more
Cutting the Plywood Pieces
Once you have the plans downloaded from Ana's Design Tool, on the second page you will find the cut list. Rip the 3/4" plywood into strips to match your width (my width is 11.25") by 8 feet long. It's best to use a tables or a track saw. Then cross cut the plywood strips into the pieces you'll need. TIP: I always plan out my cuts on scratch paper before I do any cutting to minimize scrap pieces.
Attaching the Top
I attached the top to the sides with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws, with the pocket holes on the outside. Yes, you can nail and glue instead if you don't have a pocket hole jig.
Attaching the Back Bay Support
I attached the back bay support with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws on the back side.
Adding the Shelves
For the shelves, I wanted them to have a finished front edge without a face frame. So I ripped the shelf down to 11-1/8" width on my tables. Then I applied edge banding to the front edge of the shelves. The process is shown in the video. I attached the shelves with 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue.
Adding the Back
I measure the back and cut 1/4" plywood and attached with glue and 3/4" brad nails to the back. TIP: I cut the back 1/4" smaller so it doesn't quite reach the outside edge of the piece, so the edge of the back is hidden from sight.
Face Frame
For the face frame, I first attached the two vertical pieces with glue and 1-1/4" brad nails. Then I measured and cut the top piece and attached it.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/modular-bookshelf-hutch-build-your-own-desk-system