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Parsons Console Bookshelf

Simple Parson style bookcase that can be used as a console table or scaled to a full bookshelf.

Parsons Console Bookshelf

Specifications

Project typeBookshelf and Bookcase Plans
RoomCraftroom
StylePrimitive or Early American Style Furniture Plans
DifficultyBeginner Projects
Estimated cost$50 - $100

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Parsons Console Bookshelf dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 1 – 12′ 1×12 Boards
  • 5 – 8′ 2×2 Boards
  • 3 - 8′ 1×2 Boards (IF you do not have a pocket hole, you will need these boards to help with attaching boards together)
  • 1-1/4" and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws (recommended)
  • 1-1/4" and 2" brad nails and wood glue (if you don't have a pocket hole jig)

Cut List

  • 3 – 1×12 @ 45″ (Shelves)
  • 6 – 2×2 @ 45″ (Shelf Trim)
  • 4 – 2×2 @ 32″ (Legs)
  • 6 – 2×2 @ 11 1/4″ (Shelf End Trim)
  • 6 – 1×2 @ 45″ (IF you do not have a Kreg Jig)

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • kreg-jig
  • circular saw
  • sander
  • level
  • countersink drill bit

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Shelves If you have a Kreg Jig™, simply drill pocket holes in the sides of the shelves and attach the shelf trim. If you do not have a Kreg Jig™, then you will need to first attach the 1×2 furring strip to the underside of the shelf, and then nail and glue the shelf trim. Use 2″ brad nails and glue.

Parsons Console Bookshelf — step 1
2

Ends

Build the ends with 3″ screws and glue as shown above. You can also use 2-1/23″ pocket hole screws if you have a Kreg Jig™.

Parsons Console Bookshelf — step 2
3

Step 3

Assembly Now just use 3″ screws and glue to attach the ends to the shelves. And that’s it!

Parsons Console Bookshelf — step 3
4

Step 4

And for those of you wanting the tower, here’s how you would go about building it. If you are trying to keep yours similiar to the West Elm dimensions, then make your shelf trim and shelves 39″ long. Also, the legs are now 77 3/4″ long.

Parsons Console Bookshelf — step 4
5

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/parsons-console-bookshelf